Another
iPad mini in dash install (DONE)
Installed an iPad Mini 4G in my ML. Required a lot of dremeling, wiring, and patience. I'm still not 100% done but it's at the point where id like to share with the forum. It's rough around the edges and suggestions are appreciated
The way this system I made works is that the iPad is NOT meant to be removed although it can be removed once you remove the wooden trim. It charges and has audio, only charges when key is in position 1 or 2 and of course when it's on. The amp turns on in position 2 of the key and is wired directly to the iPad and the speaker wires are from the stock radio harness (they were cut because I was lazy)
Things left to do
-Add a USB port for extra charging for other devices (the iPad has a dedicated power line from the ACC of the power harness for the radio).
- Bluetooth remote to control volume without touching the iPad
- hide the wires for the amp under drivers side carpet (any instructions for that?)
Here are some pictures for your enjoyment.
The way this system I made works is that the iPad is NOT meant to be removed although it can be removed once you remove the wooden trim. It charges and has audio, only charges when key is in position 1 or 2 and of course when it's on. The amp turns on in position 2 of the key and is wired directly to the iPad and the speaker wires are from the stock radio harness (they were cut because I was lazy)
Things left to do
-Add a USB port for extra charging for other devices (the iPad has a dedicated power line from the ACC of the power harness for the radio).
- Bluetooth remote to control volume without touching the iPad
- hide the wires for the amp under drivers side carpet (any instructions for that?)
Here are some pictures for your enjoyment.
Attachments
1 - 20 of 37 Posts
3rd
Attachments
Here is a photo of some of the nasty drenelimg that was required to fit this sucker in. Like I said, nasty. I mean to clean it up but from the outside its clean and none of this is visible
Attachments
Picture of the semi final product at a distance.
Attachments
Or take a turn REALLY hard haha.And the best part is if you ever flip the ML the iPad will rotate with it. So even waiting for emergency crews you could still check Benzworld.
3
i used my samsung for a while but decided since i already have a nice head unit and gps there was really no need for it. but i have to say google satellite view and trapster was freaking sweet.
![]()
anyways things i would suggest:
1.) get a bluetooth remote audio receiver if you encounter any issues with noise in the system. (you can run it off 12 volt...i tested it lol)
2.) control the volume via a rotary switch that on your center console. it will be faster to access and quicker to change to the desired volume. i bought an equalizer that has a rotary volume knob in it and have been happy ever since. the install looks clean, the equalizer costs only about $50 and you have the possibility of really fine tweaking your system, even on the go. I often catch myself touching the frequency buttons depending on what music genre i listen to....
![]()
nice work so far! keep us updated about your progress... personally would have gone for android because you could have ran an IOIO/arduino board and just controlled your entire car that way haha. but then this wire mess might result:
![]()
anyways things i would suggest:
1.) get a bluetooth remote audio receiver if you encounter any issues with noise in the system. (you can run it off 12 volt...i tested it lol)
2.) control the volume via a rotary switch that on your center console. it will be faster to access and quicker to change to the desired volume. i bought an equalizer that has a rotary volume knob in it and have been happy ever since. the install looks clean, the equalizer costs only about $50 and you have the possibility of really fine tweaking your system, even on the go. I often catch myself touching the frequency buttons depending on what music genre i listen to....
nice work so far! keep us updated about your progress... personally would have gone for android because you could have ran an IOIO/arduino board and just controlled your entire car that way haha. but then this wire mess might result:
1 - 20 of 37 Posts
