COBRA 2.5A Hardwire Kit OBD-II to USB-C/Micro-USB

The Cobra 2.5A DIY Hardwire Kit converts your vehicle's OBD-II port into a clean, constant 5V/2.5A power source for USB-C or Micro-USB dash cams. The Cobra hardwire kit is built to provide a discreet, professional-looking power connection for Cobra SC series dash cameras and most other USB-C or Micro-USB powered devices. It plugs into your car’s OBD-II port under the dashboard and includes a 15-foot black cable that lets you tuck wiring neatly behind panels. The kit also features intelligent power management and ignition detection so your camera receives stable power while protecting your vehicle’s battery and electronics.

How does this kit make installation tidier than a cigarette lighter adapter?

Instead of a bulky plug that hangs in the cabin, the Cobra hardwire kit routes power from the OBD-II port so wiring can be hidden behind trim and around the headliner. The long cable length provides flexibility during routing and the black jacket blends with most interior trims for a nearly invisible install.

• 15-foot cable (9 feet from DC converter to USB plug) for extended reach
• Low-profile connection at the OBD-II port beneath the steering column
• Black cable finish designed to match vehicle interiors
• USB-C and Micro-USB connector compatibility for multiple devices

Will this protect my vehicle battery and electronics?

The Cobra kit includes built-in intelligent power management that guards against common electrical faults and avoids draining your battery. It monitors and responds to over current, over voltage, short circuit and high-temperature events, and offers a low-battery cutoff to prevent deep discharge.

• Input range: DC 12/24V to suit cars and light trucks
• Output: stable DC 5V at up to 2.5A for reliable device operation
• Protection: over current, over voltage, short circuit and over temperature
• Low battery detection to preserve vehicle starting power

How does ignition detection and parking monitoring work with this kit?

The hardwire kit senses your vehicle’s ignition state via the OBD-II port and can switch the dash cam to parking or standby modes as configured by the camera. When you turn the vehicle off, the module signals the camera to begin parking monitoring without manual intervention, providing continuous coverage while parked.

• Automatic ignition sensing through OBD-II input
• Triggers parking monitoring instantly after engine shutdown
• Works with compatible Cobra dash cam parking features
• Maintains low power draw to avoid unnecessary battery drain

Which cameras and devices are compatible with this hardwire kit?

This kit is purpose-built for Cobra SC series dash cams but is also suitable for other devices that accept USB-C or Micro-USB power. Check your device’s power requirements — the kit provides 5V at up to 2.5A — and confirm connector type to ensure compatibility.

• Direct compatibility: Cobra SC 400D, SC 250R, SC 220C, SC 200D, SC 201, SC 200, SC 120, SC 100
• Also compatible with Cobra RAD 490i and similar USB-powered devices
• Provides stable power for cameras requiring up to 2.5A
• USB-C and Micro-USB connectors included for common configurations

Who is this for The Cobra 2.5A DIY Hardwire Kit is aimed at drivers who want a permanent, neat power solution for their dash cams: fleet owners, rideshare drivers, daily commuters, and vehicle enthusiasts who prefer hidden wiring and automatic parking monitoring. It's an ideal choice if you own a compatible Cobra SC dash camera or any USB-C/Micro-USB device that needs uninterrupted power with safe battery management. If you want professional-looking installation without professional installation costs, this hardwire kit provides the cable length, safety features, and ignition sensing needed for most modern vehicles.

FAQ

Q: Can I use this kit with non-Cobra dash cams?

A: Yes — any device that accepts 5V USB-C or Micro-USB and draws 2.5A or less should work.

Q: Does the kit prevent my car battery from draining?

A: Yes — it includes low-battery detection and protections to avoid deep battery discharge.