Installing a police scanner in your car can seem daunting, but with careful planning and execution, it’s a manageable DIY project. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of a successful installation in an eighth-generation Toyota Corolla, offering valuable insights and tips for adapting the process to other vehicles.
Challenges of In-Car Scanner Installation
Installing car stereos and scanners isn’t always straightforward. Unlike some Japanese and German vehicles where the radio is mounted on a simple bracket, many modern cars require modifications to the trim bezel or mounting brackets for a proper fit. This often involves filing, cutting, or sanding to accommodate the scanner’s dimensions. If you’re uncomfortable with these modifications, professional installation is recommended.
Detailed Installation Process: A Case Study
This installation focuses on a Uniden BCT-15 scanner in a Toyota Corolla. The process involved several key steps:
Mounting the Scanner
The BCT-15 didn’t come with ISO 7736 mounting screws, requiring the use of screws from an old computer rack. Modifications included filing down nubs on the rack plates and sanding the spacer and cup holder tray for a flush fit. Patience and incremental adjustments are crucial for this step.
Wiring the Scanner
The scanner’s power was drawn directly from the car’s electrical system using the included 3-wire harness.
- Positive Wire (Red): Connected to the car’s fuse box via an add-a-circuit fuse tap.
- Ground Wire (Black): Connected to a metal frame near the glove compartment using an o-ring spade connector. Finding a suitable ground point can be challenging and may require some exploration.
- Dimmer Wire (Orange): Connected to the unused dimmer wire from the aftermarket head unit’s wiring harness, requiring soldering and heat shrink wrap.
Antenna Setup
The existing car antenna was used temporarily. Recommendations for a direct replacement stealth antenna are welcome.
Integrating with the Car Stereo
A SP-1300 splitter/combiner with various adapters from Radio Shack allowed the scanner and head unit to share the antenna. This setup ensured minimal interference and allowed for simultaneous use of both devices.
Functionality and Performance
The BCT-15’s built-in speaker proved sufficiently loud, even behind the dashboard. The scanner automatically starts and stops with the ignition. It effectively supplements the car stereo for background scanning of police, DOT, and weather alerts.
Future Enhancements
Future plans include integrating a GPS unit for automatic location-based scanning and recording of speed trap locations.
This detailed account of installing a police scanner in a car highlights the importance of careful planning, potential challenges, and the satisfaction of a successful DIY project. Remember to consult your car’s manual and seek professional help if needed.
