Transform Your Ride: Installing a Nexus 7 into Your OBDII Double DIN for Smart Car Features

Are you looking to modernize your older vehicle without breaking the bank? Integrating a tablet into your car’s dashboard is a fantastic way to add smart features and a high-tech feel. This guide will walk you through installing a Nexus 7 tablet into the double DIN space of your OBDII-compatible car, specifically focusing on the Subaru Forester SG9 OEM dash pod.

While there’s a growing interest in carputer and tablet integrations, detailed guides can still be scarce. This tutorial aims to fill that gap, providing a comprehensive, step-by-step process based on a successful Nexus 7 installation. Having run this setup for months, we can share insights and address potential challenges, like managing heat in hot climates – easily solved with a simple sunshade, a good practice for any car parked under direct sunlight.

Disclaimer: Modifying your car is undertaken at your own risk. This guide is for informational purposes only. We are not responsible for any damage to your vehicle or personal injury resulting from following these instructions. Proceed with caution and ensure you have a basic understanding of car electronics and DIY modifications.

Here’s a sneak peek at the finished, sleek integration:

(Video demonstration of the installed Nexus 7 functionality would typically be embedded here)

Tools and Parts You’ll Need for Your Nexus 7 Double DIN Car Mod

Before diving into the installation, gather all the necessary tools and parts. This will streamline the process and prevent frustrating interruptions.

Essential Tools:

1. Trim Removal Tools: Crucial for safely removing car interior panels without causing damage.
2. Phillips Head Screwdriver: A standard tool for most car modifications.
3. Soldering Iron (or Crimping Tool): For secure and reliable wiring connections. Soldering is recommended for durability, but crimping offers an alternative if you’re less experienced with soldering.
4. Side Cutters: For trimming wires and cable ties.
5. Power Drill: Needed for creating mounting holes in the dash pod and tablet case.

Parts List for Nexus 7 OBDII Double DIN Integration:

1. Subaru OEM Double Din Gauge Pod Housing: Specifically designed for your Subaru Forester SG9, ensuring a perfect fit. You can find this at Subaru Genuine Parts.
2. Asus Nexus 7 (2012 version): The heart of your carputer. The 2012 model is affordable and perfectly suited for this project. Details can be found on the Google Play Store.
3. 2.1amp Car Charger: Essential for reliably charging your Nexus 7. A high-quality charger like the Jaycar Electronics In-Car Quick Charger ensures optimal charging speed.
4. In-Line Cigarette Lighter Socket: Allows you to tap into your car’s 12V power source to power the USB charger. A robust socket like this Jaycar Electronics model is recommended.
5. Belkin Mix-It Flat Aux Cable: The flat design is key to fitting the audio cable neatly within the limited space of the dash pod housing. Available at Belkin.
6. Mini USB ELM327 Bluetooth Adapter: This OBDII adapter is crucial for connecting your Nexus 7 to your car’s diagnostic system, enabling features like real-time gauges using Torque Pro. The mini size, similar to this eBay listing, keeps it discreet and out of the way.
7. Aftermarket Head Deck with Rear Aux or Bluetooth Audio Inputs: (Optional) For playing music and integrating audio from the Nexus 7 into your car’s sound system. A single DIN unit like the JVC KD-R90BT is a great option.
8. Matte Finish (Anti-Glare) Screen Protector: Reduces reflections and fingerprints, making the tablet screen easier to view in sunlight and giving it a more OEM look when off.
9. Hardshell Case: Any basic hardshell case will work to protect the Nexus 7 and provide a mounting surface. Even a novelty case like this Napoleon Bonaparte case can do the job!

Software Essentials for Your Car Tablet

To fully utilize your Nexus 7 as a smart car interface, you’ll need these key Android apps:

1. Torque Pro for Android: Transforms your tablet into a powerful OBDII gauge display and diagnostic tool. Get it on the Google Play Store.
2. Torque Theme Pack: Customize the look of Torque Pro to match your car’s interior for a seamless integration. Find theme packs on the Play Store.
3. Condi: Automates tablet functions based on car ignition status, controlling power states, brightness, and app launching. Download from the Play Store.
4. AutoSleeper: Manages the Nexus 7’s sleep/wake cycles based on the car’s 12V power, essential for automatic operation. Available on the Play Store.
5. Sygic: (Optional) A robust offline navigation app with speed camera alerts and free map updates. Try the free trial on the Play Store.
6. Fullscreen: Removes the Android status and navigation bars for a cleaner, more immersive in-car display, resembling an OEM navigation system. Download from the Play Store.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide: Nexus 7 OBDII Double DIN Mod

Now, let’s get to the core of the project – installing your Nexus 7 into your Subaru Forester’s dash. Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Dashtop Storage Cubby Removal

Begin by removing the dashtop storage cubby. Gently but firmly pull the cubby forward. It’s held in place by clips and should release without screws. Disconnect the clock connector and set the cubby aside.

Step 2: Accessing the Center Console

You’ll need to access the wiring behind the center console. Refer to online video tutorials specifically for Subaru Forester SG9 center console removal. These videos provide visual guidance and prevent accidental damage to your car’s interior.

Step 3: Double DIN Gauge Pod Installation

Install the Subaru OEM double DIN gauge pod housing according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually involves mounting brackets and screws that come with the pod kit. Ensure it’s securely fitted into the dash.

Step 4: Nexus 7 Mounting Preparation

Create a mount for the Nexus 7 using the hardshell case and the clock adapter that came with the dash pod. Drill a few holes in the back of the hardshell case, aligning them with the mounting points on the clock adapter. Use cable ties to securely attach the case to the adapter.

Align the bottom edge of the dash pod with the bottom corners of the Nexus 7 to ensure proper positioning within the dash opening.

You may need to drill additional screw holes in the clock adapter or dash pod to achieve perfect alignment and a secure fit.

Step 5: Powering the Nexus 7 – Creating Additional Power Source

To power the Nexus 7, you’ll tap into the cigarette lighter power source.

Disconnect the plugs at the back of the cigarette lighter socket. Carefully solder (or crimp) wires inline with the positive (usually red) and negative (usually black) wires. Connect these new wires to the positive and negative terminals of the additional cigarette lighter socket you purchased. Important: Wire colors can vary between car models. Always double-check with a multimeter before cutting or soldering. Insulate all connections with electrical tape or heat shrink tubing to prevent shorts.

Plug the USB car charger into your new in-line cigarette lighter socket. Reconnect all original car wiring and test that the charger is functioning correctly.

Step 6: Running Wires to the Tablet Location

Tape the Micro USB charging cable and the AUX cable to a coat hanger or stiff wire. Carefully feed this through the left side of the center console, routing the wires up to the dash pod area. Connect the Micro USB and AUX plugs to your Nexus 7.

Step 7: Testing Connections and Console Reassembly

Before fully reassembling your center console, test that the Nexus 7 is receiving power and that the AUX cable is providing audio output (if you’re using it). Once confirmed, carefully put the lower center console back together.

Step 8: Software Configuration for Smart Features

Now, configure the software on your Nexus 7 to enable its smart car functionalities:

• AutoSleeper Setup: Install and configure AutoSleeper to automatically turn the tablet on and off with your car’s ignition. Set a shutdown timer of 3-5 seconds to prevent accidental shutdowns during brief engine stops.
• Torque Pro and OBDII Adapter: Install Torque Pro and plug the ELM327 Bluetooth adapter into your car’s OBDII port (usually located under the steering wheel). Pair the adapter with your Nexus 7 via Bluetooth within the Torque Pro app.
• Condi Macro Setup: Create macros in Condi to automate tasks based on ignition status:
  • (12V Off): Enable Airplane Mode, turn off Bluetooth, close Torque Pro (to save battery).
  • (12V On): Disable Airplane Mode, turn on Bluetooth, open Torque Pro (for automatic startup).

Step 9: Dash Pod Cover Installation

Place the cover onto the dash pod. It should snap into place, though it might require a bit of pressure the first time.

Step 10: Enjoy Your Smart Car Infotainment System!

Congratulations! You’ve successfully integrated a Nexus 7 tablet into your car, adding a range of smart features and modernizing your driving experience.

If you have any questions or encounter issues during your install, feel free to ask in the comments below!