[mithun]

I'm planning to add a 12V Accessory socket for my 2001 Alto LX so that I can charge laptops, cellphones during long drives.

• What would be the cost involved ?
• How long will it take for a basic cellphone to get charged from a fully discharged state ?
• Any other things to be taken care off before the installation ?

[mukeshgoel]

I got one fitted, including a cigarette lighter, in the Zen for Rs.90/-. I asked to reduce price if I don't want the lighter just the socket which the shop owner refused.

[mithun]

Originally Posted by mukeshgoel

I got one fitted, including a cigarette lighter, in the Zen for Rs.90/-. I asked to reduce price if I don't want the lighter just the socket which the shop owner refused.

Is there any need for separate re-wiring or any other mods on the dashboard ?

[tsk1979]

Nope, they directly connect to the harness, or from the battery(if you want always on socket)

[vikram_d]

Originally Posted by mithun

Is there any need for separate re-wiring or any other mods on the dashboard ?

Tanveer has answered first part. For second part, no mods are required to the dashboard. Most cars have provision for this already. It will just be small cap or a hole blank which you have to remove and fit the socket.

[JVille07]

Originally Posted by mukeshgoel

I got one fitted, including a cigarette lighter, in the Zen for Rs.90/-. I asked to reduce price if I don't want the lighter just the socket which the shop owner refused.

OOPS !! I checked with a Chennai Maruti dealer and he quoted Rs. 350 for accessory socket in Swift Lxi (delivery on coming Wednesday)

[mukeshgoel]

Originally Posted by tsk1979

Nope, they directly connect to the harness, or from the battery(if you want always on socket)

In my case, he took the battery connection from stereo. So its not always on.

[anupmathur]

Get this done from a Maruti A.S.S. and it'll be fitted with the correct plug and a good quality socket/lighter. Cost will not exceed Rs. 200/-.

[vikram_d]

Cost should not exceed 150/-. The so called most expensive "imported" ones I have seen are all below 150 including fitting.

[anupmathur]

Originally Posted by vikram_d

Cost should not exceed 150/-. The so called most expensive "imported" ones I have seen are all below 150 including fitting.

Are these with an illuminated surround at the socket?

[Rehaan]

Originally Posted by mithun

[*]How long will it take for a basic cellphone to get charged from a fully discharged state ?

Probably the same as from a wall charger - assuming your car charger is putting out the same voltage/ampereage - which it probably is.

Originally Posted by mithun

[*]Any other things to be taken care off before the installation ?[/list]

I'd suggest you dont go for "always on". It could be a safety hazard, especially if you have the cigarette lighter in there at times.
Set it up so that it comes on when the ignition is in the "Accessory" position (one click from OFF).

Also make sure you put a fuse on the line.

cya
R

[vikram_d]

Originally Posted by anupmathur

Are these with an illuminated surround at the socket?

Yes the ones with the illuminated surround.

[mithun]

What is this ? Please explain.

Roots Auto Products Private Limited - Products - Mobile Chargers

[sgiitk]

There are two types of cigarette lighters - Japanese around Rs.150 and Hong Kong around Rs.90. Since you are only interested in them for plugging in stuff so take either. The loom already has a wire and a coupler so it is a simple five minute job. Only in some cars you may to put a bit of wire for the Earth connection.

[mithun]

My only intention is to charge cellphones.

Some are saying that not all brands of cell-phones can be charged.