iPhone Dock Install Walkthrough

I just finished installing this system in my new (to me) GT. I wasn't able to relocate the seat heater switches, but I was able to mount the dock in the ashtray location. I removed the red bulb from the cigarette lighter socket and installed it in the back of the ashtray pocket for some back-lighting to help locate the dock in the dark. Also, I left the cigarette lighter without a light, since I didn't want the extra glare from it at night. I used the same putty as I used before, although, since it is exposed now, I plan to paint it with a bit of glossy black so it blends in better. Pictures below!

 

So, it's time I contribute to this great site. I hope some of you find this helpful and enjoy it as much as I have. It has been a few months since I did this, so I will do my best to remember as much as I can.

I recently made the jump from a camera-less phone to an iPhone 4 and I have been so happy with what is possible with it, I wanted to integrate it into my car. I had an aftermarket stereo for a while with the aux in on the front, but I hated the cable flopping around and running the battery down on the phone. It was super cheap and works amazingly well. First, you need to provide yourself with an aux in. do a search and pick your preferred option. I chose to ebay an '07 radio and hack the connector in the back for an aux in. I installed a Radio Shack port in my center console, just in front of the power outlet. Then, I ordered a dock cable (search for 3.5mm Audio Line out+Usb Dock Cable for iphone 4 on ebay. They are only about $5 with shipping) and a 5 Volt USB adaptor for a 12 outlet (another $5). Plan ahead. These ebay items can take about 3 weeks to arrive.

 

I installed this port in my 2.5i that does not have heated seats, and I used the pocket where the switches go. I just bought a GT with heated seats and I plan on relocating the switches and buying a new pocket. When I get to that project, I will post details on how it goes.

 

Once you have your: AUX in, dock cable, and USB port, you will need a plastic repair epoxy putty. I used Magnum Plastic Repair #44229 from O'reilly Auto Parts.

 

Remove the center console following other walkthroughs.

 

You will need to make a slot in the console pocket for the dock plug to mount in. Remove the pocket from the console to have room for the Dremel. I basically eyeballed the hole for the plug in the console pocket and went to town with the 'ol Dremel. The only bit I used for the entire install was a thin, long grinding drum. Be sure to account for the tilt and remove material slowly. It's always easier to remove more than it is to put it back on! Once the slot is cut just right for the dock plug, test the fit of it and adjust it if necessary. Re-install the pocket into the console. I think I remember that it will be impossible to re-install the pocket once the plug is mounted.

 

I think I remember, also, that I had to remove some plastic from the back of the cup holder box for clearance for the plug. Once the fit is good, use the dremel to LIGHTLY grind down the small metal hooks on the sides of the plug so that the release buttons on the plug do not need to be pressed to release the iPhone/iPod.

 

While you have the plug in one hand and the Dremel in the other, go to town on the plastic body of the plug to rough it up to help the plastic repair epoxy stick. Also, roughen up the back side of the pocket where the epoxy will need to bond to the pocket. Wash the parts to remove any grease or oils from the parts.

 

Mix up about half of the epoxy putty and form it around the plug. Insert the plug into the slot and attach the iPhone from the other side to confirm the fit and make sure the plug isn't installed upside down (easy to do). Also, if you use a thick case like an Otter Box like I do, install that now so there is clearance for it later. Firmly mold and compress the putty around the plug and against the back of the pocket. Let it cure in a warm place for a few hours and re-install the console into the car. I ran the usb plug and 3.5mm plug into the center console through a hole I drilled inside.

 

For the next version, I plan to disassemble the USB adaptor and hardwire it, while mounting it's red LED light below the iPhone dock plug for some backlighting in the pocket to make it easier to locate the plug in the dark. Pics are below. Enjoy!

Pretty cool... I'm trying to come up with an idea to dock my iPhone4 but I have heated seat switches in my GT... Definitely don't wanna relocate the switches but I wanna do something clean looking like you did! Any ideas?

Pretty cool... I'm trying to come up with an idea to dock my iPhone4 but I have heated seat switches in my GT... Definitely don't wanna relocate the switches but I wanna do something clean looking like you did! Any ideas?

 

 

I'm having the same problem trying to decide on a location as well.

I've got an idea . I'll post details if it works in a couple of weeks.

how about something in the storage above the cd player, where the nav system or guages typically live? if you don't have anything there, that could work

I have the JDM sti gauge pack in that location.. Hmm I'll have to figure something out.

^^ sounds like all the convenient places are out for you then

Why don't you guys try where the ashtray is, open it close it, out of sight when not in use.

Now mounted in the ashtray! Pics in the first post.

You, are welcome.

Yeah, I had thought about the ashtray before the first one, but I didn't like it in the way of the HVAC controls. At least now I have the auto climate control and don't need to access the controls too much. I'm still not crazy about where it is. If it really starts to bug me, I may try building it into a bracket coming out of the bottom of the driver's side center vent. The dock cables are certainly cheap enough to give it a shot! I also found that I can shave the cured putty down, so I may be able to re-use the same cable for different mounting locations.