So I just picked up a 2006 Mazda3 S hatchback (5-speed) as a daily driver, and needless to say I'm tickled by how much fun it is to drive for only having 160 HP...

At this point, though, I need a constant 12V aux power source for an Engel refrigerator I tote around with me more often than not. As far as I can tell, there is only a single power source - the cigarette lighter - and it's a switched outlet.

I noticed in the center console, just behind the cupholders (under the little lid/door that covers them), there's a square panel that might be able to be pried out with a screwdriver. If so, is this where an optional auxiliary power outlet was installed on some models? To further that question - does anyone have the part number for it?

Thanks in advance!

 

Does the refrigerator come in and out of the car with you, or does it stay there? If the latter, can it be in the trunk? If so, have you considered hardwiring it?

 

+1 hardwire to a constant.

Otherwise contact your mazda dealer for the part... easier than asking here.

 

Thanks for the input guys.

I went over to a local dealership and talked to a parts counter guy patient enough to sift through the interior parts diagrams with me looking for the answer. As it turns out, that little plate is an access panel to reach an E-brake lever adjustment screw/nut - not an aux power port.

The refrigerator is mobile, and Engel does offer a hard-wire kit that I'll ultimately be using in this case (unless I can find a bank of 12V cigarette lighter-style sockets for installation in the cargo area). Thanks for the input - at least the mystery can be put to rest.