How to Install a Radar Detector in Your Car

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Learn the laws concerning radar detectors in your state and town.

   Although radar detectors are only strictly illegal in 1 state, several states have passed laws concerning mounting obstructive devices on a windshield.
   
   Check your state's laws on windshield mounts before installing a radar detector.
   
   Radar detectors are illegal in all commercial vehicles more than 10,000 lbs.
   
   Radar detectors are illegal on all U.S. military bases. ,, Radar detectors can be powered with a 12v adapter, AA batteries, or hard wiring.
   
   To use a battery-run radar detector, install the required number and size of batteries and mount the detector in the recommended location.
   
   Battery-powered detectors have a 40 to 50 percent range when compared to the hard-wired radar detectors. , Dash- and windshield-mounted radar detectors are the most common types used.
   
   However, there are also devices (usually laser detectors) that are mounted near the license plate. , Be careful the device does not obstruct your vision while driving. ,,, Buy the appropriate add-a-circuit cord.
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   Step 2: Radar detectors are illegal in the District of Columbia (Washington

   Radar detectors with GPS capabilities need to be mounted as low as possible for clear access to the sky. ,, An ideal location is along the side of the dash.
   
   You want to be able to touch the controller easily and quickly as needed. , Find a bolt in the fuse box, unscrew it, slip the ring around the bolt, and refasten. ,, Adding a radar detector to the radio fuse allows the radar to be turned on and off with the car's ignition. ,,
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   Step 3: D.C.) and Virginia.

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   Step 4: Decide how you want to power the radar detector.

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   Step 5: Choose the area to mount the radar detector.

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   Step 6: Use the suction cups or adhesive provided with the radar detector to mount the detector in the recommended location on the dash or windshield.

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   Step 7: Insert the power cord into a cigarette lighter or power-source outlet.

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   Step 8: Read the manual to operate the radar detector.

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   Step 9: Use your vehicle manual to find the fuse box on your car and determine whether the fuses are mini fuses or regular-sized fuses.

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    Step 10: Mount the detector on the windshield or dash.

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    Step 11: Run the power cable from the radar detector to the fuse box

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    Step 12: tucking the cord in between the dash and the windshield with a flat screwdriver.

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    Step 13: Install the direct wire smart cord interface (if applicable) to a handy location with the adhesive pieces provided with the radar detector.

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    Step 14: Ground the radar detector at the fuse box by using the provided ring fastener.

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    Step 15: Use a pair of pliers to crimp the add-a-circuit with the positive wire

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    Step 16: which is identified by the thin black stripe.

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    Step 17: Remove the radio fuse from the fuse box

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    Step 18: and add it to the add-a-fuse circuit along with the radar detector fuse.

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    Step 19: Plug the add-a-circuit in with the 2 fuses.

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    Step 20: Test the radar detector's power by turning on the car's ignition.

Detailed Guide

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