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gbonsai

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Wish there was more detailed info out there to assist with tapping a switched 12V source — hoping this post helps others in the same boat, and maybe circles back with even better solutions down the line.

Regardless of whether you’re installing a radar detector or something else, the point of this thread is to share useful info about finding a reliable switched 12V tap.

Vehicle:
25 Gen 2 Tri Max (March/April build date)

No 12V Outlet Under Dash:
I saw this question asked elsewhere but couldn’t find it again. Confirming there’s no wire or connector in the vicinity of where the under-dash 12V outlet used to be. Nothing left to tap there.


Where I’ve Tapped:
I’m currently tapping into the board behind the driver’s kick panel.

  • It is switched — turns off fairly quickly after locking the vehicle and walking away.
  • Seems to power cycle with the vehicle’s screen (but not always).
  • As of now, it doesn’t appear to be tied to Gear Guard.
  • No phantom drain noticed after 3 days of use.

I’ve tested by walking up to the truck both with and without my phone. With auto unlock off @ Home, it stays powered down until the vehicle is “woken up” (unlock or door handle pull). When out - it seems to walk with the door handles popping out.



IMAGES:

[*]No 12V Outlet or Wires:
Rivian R1T R1S Tapping a Switched 12V Source – Info for Those Still Searching (25 Gen 2 Tri Max) No Outlet - or wires



[*]12V Tap:
Rivian R1T R1S Tapping a Switched 12V Source – Info for Those Still Searching (25 Gen 2 Tri Max) 12V Tap Zoomed

Rivian R1T R1S Tapping a Switched 12V Source – Info for Those Still Searching (25 Gen 2 Tri Max) 12v Ta



[*]Ground Tap:
Rivian R1T R1S Tapping a Switched 12V Source – Info for Those Still Searching (25 Gen 2 Tri Max) Ground Ta
Rivian R1T R1S Tapping a Switched 12V Source – Info for Those Still Searching (25 Gen 2 Tri Max) Ground Zoomed




Hopefully this helps anyone else trying to find a clean, switched 12V source for accessories.
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There is also a mirror power connection you can tap behind the rearview mirror. I used this to hook up a radar detector with a mirror mount.
 
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gbonsai

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There is also a mirror power connection you can tap behind the rearview mirror. I used this to hook up a radar detector with a mirror mount.
Not super useful if the wire is power cord for an Escort ZW5 Setup
 

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Thanks for the contribution.

Can't quite make out from your photo - what did you use to make the tap connection? Doesn't look like a clamp / "t" tap?
 
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gbonsai

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Thanks for the contribution.

Can't quite make out from your photo - what did you use to make the tap connection? Doesn't look like a clamp / "t" tap?
Used one of these connectors and just shoved it in place. was a tight fit and made descent contact shoved against existing wire - tugged on it a bit and it didnt seem to move at all so im happy with it - also more comfortable than tapping an existing wire

Rivian R1T R1S Tapping a Switched 12V Source – Info for Those Still Searching (25 Gen 2 Tri Max) 1760036787488-rt
 

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a pickup without a cigarette lighter socket is not a pickup...
Rivian's upfitting recommendations on the R1T is to use the "cigarette lighter socket" that's present in the gear tunnel.

Rivian R1T R1S Tapping a Switched 12V Source – Info for Those Still Searching (25 Gen 2 Tri Max) 1760104960256-js



Rivian R1T R1S Tapping a Switched 12V Source – Info for Those Still Searching (25 Gen 2 Tri Max) 1760105032156-8d
 

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Where did you get such detailed car diagrams?

I'm currently having a problem with my R1T. The left side of the car is "dead" because both 12V batteries died, and replacing them with new ones didn't fix it. Both batteries start at the same time, but the left side of the car isn't receiving 12V power.
 

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Where did you get such detailed car diagrams?

I'm currently having a problem with my R1T. The left side of the car is "dead" because both 12V batteries died, and replacing them with new ones didn't fix it. Both batteries start at the same time, but the left side of the car isn't receiving 12V power.
Reposting the upfitting guide that was previously shared.
 

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best switched 12v for a radar detector is in the plastic behind the rearview mirror - easy and fast

best 12v source for larger loads and or a load distribution panel is on the passenger side under the hood. remove the black plastic cover guard and find the red plastic flap cover covering the 12V positive terminal. this turns off when the vehicle "sleeps"
2025 R1T
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