iPod Car Adapter - How To Install An iPod Into Your C5

Back on the workbench in the garage, I took the pedestal base off the display unit using Torx drivers, after establishing that it will fit in the console opening in front of where the ashtray used to reside.

Another trial fit to make sure the display unit will fit where I want it to go, and it does, nicely. Now the console goes back out to the car, and the cable from the display is plugged into the brain with the surplus cable tucked away.

I wanted to keep the iPod itself in the armrest console where it would be protected and easily unplugged if I wanted to take it with me. In order to do this, I had to notch an opening for the Drive+Play connector cable to pass through. I did so using a file next to the opening for the 12V auxiliary power socket. Optionally, you can just leave the socket out and have the cable pass through its opening, but I wanted to have the convenience of the 12V socket as well, so I notched the opening. This was rough (I cleaned it up more with the file after this shot was taken).

The wiring diagram supplied with the Drive+Play unit is clear and easy to follow, as are the excellent installation instructions. Even if you've never done an installation like this before, the connections shouldn't be a problem even for a novice. It's getting the console out and back in again that's the tricky part.

After everything is plugged in, it's time to replace the console and button everything up. Reassembly is the exact reverse of disassembly, in that order. I recommend plugging in the iPod and powering on the Drive+Play first, however, just to make sure everything is working as it should before reassembling the console. Be sure to confirm all your cable routing at this time as well, otherwise you'll have to take it all apart again to correct any mistakes.

I attached the controller to the cover that holds the traction control switch and simply routed the cable under the front of the cover since I ran it under the console. This way the controller is within easy reach of both the driver and passenger. The display unit is also easily readable in daytime or at night in its location under the flip cover of the console.

And the iPod itself nestles comfortably inside the armrest console. I usually keep it in its leather case to protect the screen, but I left it exposed for this shot. When I want to take it with me, I simply unsnap the Drive+Play connector cable from it and away I go.