When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Not sure why the power outlet in the rear cargo/tailgate area is not always on, rather shutting off after 10 minutes... I guess to protect the battery. I have found more than once in need of power camping or tailgating and have had to start the car. That said, I am going to upgrade mine to have power at will. I am adding a regular 12 volt and a USB port. Also going to install a switch to allow turning off/on as needed.
Anyone taken this on before? Challenges, problems or concerns?
I'll document my progress... Should be relatively easy given the battery location and access underneath the covers.
I have a thread where I asked about this not long after I bought mine. It’s extremely annoying that it’s not an option on the fuse position or something, especially given the Discovery is presented as an outdoor lifestyle vehicle.
I have a 12v fridge/freezer unit that I want to remain powered even when the vehicle is parked up (low power draw and has auto low voltage shut off anyway) but instead it shuts off.
I meant to wire in something permanent but due to Covid I wasn’t using the fridge in that capacity (have it plugged in at home for extra freezer capacity instead) so I put the project on hold... If I needed the function desperately before then I have a 2000wh Bluetti battery/generator I can put in the trunk temporarily.
I’d be interested in whatever you come up with!
I wouldn't draw power from the battery once the car is turned off. Modern cars are very sensitive to low battery levels and it doesn't take much to cause some electronic gremlins. Even leaving on the radio doesn't last long and it shuts it down. If you really need extra power, you might consider a separate 12V battery pack to power those devices?
This is the first modern SUV I've owned that does not have this available. I am putting an on/off switch inline to only allow power as needed. I'll post all the pictures when I am done.
Finished the install this weekend... Probably took me about an hour from start to finish. I did not include pictures of the holes I drilled in the panels, but you should be able to figure it out. I replaced the connectors (pictured below) that came wired with the power outlet because they were not soldered. All connections are now soldered and covered with a heat shrink casing. Let me know if there are questions/comments concerns. kj
Sorry, I have the 19 so same as your 17.
From first glance I thought the panel looked narrower and different but I realize now that the blanking plates on the left with the new outlets don’t exist on mine as that’s where the electric seat fold buttons are, that’s what threw me...