iPad Mini in-dash Install [996]

[pfbz]

I've documented some of the work I've done installing an iPad mini into my '04 996 in several threads on a few different forums... I'm putting the information here in its own thread.

Sorry if it seems a bit discontiguous, much of this is cut and paste.

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Here's what I'm doing:

• Relocate HVAC to lower slot in lower center console.
• Relocate head unit to upper slot in lower center console.
• Replace head unit with Pioneer single din with USB input and enough charging current to keep iPad mini operating properly.
• Custom mount mini in upper dash.
• Modifications to horseshoe bezel and cup holder trim only. Can be returned to stock easily by replacing $60 bezel.
• Mini will feed into pioneer stereo, then to upgraded speakers in dash and rear.

[very~worn~944]

I like this... There needs to be more data logging and OBD2 apps for the apple software! this PIWIS available actual values displayed real time on your dash. Maybe even the ability to control additional transistors and relays, to program your own aftermarket accessories...who knows what you could do!

[pfbz]

Photo of the finished install...

[XwalkerX]

wow this looks fantastic!

[barlowdo]

I saw your post on other forums and wondered what horse shoe you started with. On my 2001 996 I have two separate Dins. One holds the standard radio.
There is a plastic frame between both Din slots.

Did you have to cut out the plastic frame? Or is your newer cars horseshoe made different? Or do you have the factory Double Din made for factory GPS Style?

BTW I have my iPhone connected via a powered dock plug and audio via the RCA plugs that are used to attach to the trunk mounted CD player.

[pfbz]

The center stack changed a bit in 2002...

• 1999-2001 did not have the thin, horizontal, cupholder and had a multi-piece surround instead of the horseshoe. Some had a cupholder that took up as much space as the hvac controller.
• 2002-2004 had the one piece horseshoe. The hvac and stock radio just butted up against each other each with their own trim bezel, but the piece behind the horseshoe (Support frame, #996.552.231.13 01C) does have a center bar. The bar actually is useful as it supports the back of the ipad.

On my installation, I used the standard 2002+ horseshoe. No double din kit or any aftermarket parts. It was a non-nav car with the hvac control in the upper position and the radio in the lower position. In matte black, the horseshoe is part #996.552.233.06 A03 (about $66 online).

The install would definitely be a bit different in 1999-2001's. It might be easier, or not. You also might be able to install a 2002+ center stack components into a 1999-2001 and duplicate my install (looks like support, bezel, and vent at a minimum). The nature of these DIY projects is that it definitely isn't plug-and-play, but thats also why it is fun to tackle!

Here's what it looks like with the center stack and lower front stack mostly disassembled on a 2002+



And another finished shot, ignition off:



ignition on:

[pfbz]

A few more images for clarity...

2002-2004 support bracket and bezel (with switches still installed, before any modifications)


Support bracket and AC duct. This was an initial test-fit of the mini. You can see the gap where the cup-holder slides in. I used the front trim piece from the cup holder to fill this gap, but did not reinstall the actual cup holder. Could be done though...


Parts diagrams.

1999-2001:

2002-2004:

[barlowdo]

Is your IPad 3G so you can use Pandora?

[pfbz]

Originally Posted by barlowdo

Is your IPad 3G so you can use Pandora?

Of course! LTE actually.

Jailbroken as well, so no swipe screen, pandora ads, or skip limit. Turn the key on, pandora starts playing. Turn the key off, everything goes dark. Just like FM or sat radio...

I can select/change the pandora station and skip songs either from the ipad or the head unit.

[barlowdo]

I thought maybe you were tethering off another mobile device. I am not happy that laws are being put in place to make it illegal to jail break smart phones. The IPad may be immune to that not sure.