RX - 3rd Gen (2010-2015) Discussion topics related to the 2010 - 2015 RX350 and RX450H models

Adding DIY rear power usb ports

Thread Tools
 
Search this Thread
 
Old 07-25-17, 12:19 PM
  #1  
GibbsLexus
Intermediate
Thread Starter
iTrader: (1)
 
GibbsLexus's Avatar
 
Join Date: Jun 2016
Location: NC / SC
Posts: 439
Received 64 Likes on 40 Posts
Default Adding DIY rear power usb ports

Have anyone added power usb ports in the rear of the center console for back seat powering? I am interested in doing this. It helps for long trips.
Old 07-25-17, 06:21 PM
  #2  
Clutchless
Moderator
 
Clutchless's Avatar
 
Join Date: May 2005
Location: VA
Posts: 5,908
Received 1,175 Likes on 1,003 Posts
Default

No, but on my 2010 I added one to the lower center console like they put in the 2011 and newer models. I used a fuse tap (it plugs into your fuse, then there is a place for a second fuse and wire that is attached so you can add more stuff) It is either a micro or mini fuse, I forget, there were posts about it as someone else did it. I then ran a wire under the dash to the console area, then drilled a hole. You could do the same and just run the wire farther to the rear, snaking it along the edge of the carpet and center console. I have not looked into it, nor plan to, so taking that apart, figuring out where to mount them and finding a ground bolt under the plastic is up to you. You can buy generic USB add on ports on eBay. I put the fuse tap on the fuse used for the original power outlet. Good luck.
Old 07-26-17, 05:31 AM
  #3  
Stoodo
Advanced
iTrader: (4)
 
Stoodo's Avatar
 
Join Date: Apr 2006
Location: FL
Posts: 542
Received 87 Likes on 43 Posts
Default

We got one of these for our minivan. The kids stopped complaining about charging after that.

Amazon Amazon

Old 07-26-17, 05:37 AM
  #4  
F250
Lead Lap
 
F250's Avatar
 
Join Date: Aug 2016
Location: NC
Posts: 649
Received 53 Likes on 45 Posts
Default

As today's gadgets and "connected" devices grow in their capabilities and power demands, I strongly recommend that you avoid the "generic" ports from anywhere, and that you center your effort around using high quality and reputable components with the following two features:

1) high power capability for charging tablets
2) smart charging technology to avoid overcharging older or smaller units which cannot handle the higher power input.

After all, if you're going to the level of effort required to add a port (or three), make your time investment really count for the long haul by using proven and reliable components... if you cheap out, you may get lucky, or not! The cost per port may grow by $20-$30, but you will be much happier in the long run by having something which holds up to your demands. Adding ports for back seat passengers is a great idea, and is worth doing in a great way!

Last edited by F250; 07-26-17 at 05:40 AM.
The following users liked this post:
GibbsLexus (12-06-23)
Old 07-26-17, 09:21 AM
  #5  
vlad_a
Lexus Champion
 
vlad_a's Avatar
 
Join Date: Feb 2004
Location: Ohio
Posts: 1,973
Received 55 Likes on 53 Posts
Default

Personally, I'd wire some generic USB female cables into a DC-DC converter.
This little guy will do 3 Amps:
http://www.jameco.com/z/SD-15A-5-Mea...n_1953778.html
That one is 5 Amps:
http://www.jameco.com/z/SD-25A-5-Mea...in_175662.html
And if any of the above won't do, here's the mean 10 Amp version:
http://www.jameco.com/z/SD-50A-5-Mea...in_212549.html
Related Topics
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
Brabusx2
GS - 3rd Gen (2006-2011)
5
04-23-17 11:53 PM
jbrittmart
LS - 4th Gen (2007-2017)
2
07-08-16 06:59 AM
Benjam1n
ES - 1st to 4th Gen (1990-2006)
1
07-26-14 01:19 AM
LexusTexas
IS - 2nd Gen (2006-2013)
0
04-27-08 01:57 PM



Quick Reply: Adding DIY rear power usb ports



All times are GMT -7. The time now is 12:42 AM.