Running a coolbox in the MG4.

[DaevM]

In my old 2018 kia Soul there was plenty of useful onboard power supplies including a 12v in the boot which I used to use to transport chilled stuff in an Outwell coolbox. This is ac/dc switchable so when I got to my destination I'd put it on the DC supply of the property I'm staying in.
Zoom forward to 2024 car of the year ? (mg4 se lr). Holiday time.
1 x 12v supply up front powering dashcam, 1 USB powering phone / android auto and 1 usb accessible in the rear - and that's it ?!!? (Ignoring V2L)
The coolbox is rated at 48w for chilling.
Would I be ok to split the dash 12v and share between the dashcam and the coolbox. As I say, it will only be being used when either driving or charging.
I read the accessories post about fitting a fridge. That looks a little bit more "how long can I leave it without trashing the 12v battery whilst not using the vehicle or using a separate battery" .
Little concerned after reading that post. Never had any problems running it on the Kia 12v socket in the manner described.

 

[webhiker]

Fairly simple. Check the manual.
The manual for my version states ".... The power rating is 120 watt" for the 12V power socket

 

[DaevM]

Fairly simple. Check the manual.
The manual for my version states ".... The power rating is 120 watt" for the 12V power socket

'scuse my village idiot level of comprehension. I'm assuming 120 is a max and as 48 is obviously well within this it's all rosy ? ?
( Yes, I really am this dumb )

 

[webhiker]

Assuming that your extra bits on that socket does not even come close to exhausting the total, I would go for it, if I had a need for a coolbox.
Fuse F44 15A Front Console Power Socket is rated to blow at 180W, so quite cool (pun intended)

 

[DaevM]

Well, that's a no then.
Just tried it. To be fair I hadn"t pre-cooled the coolbox.
Used an old splitter. Everything worked, coolbox was set to eco. Powered up, along with dashcam. Sat with it for a couple of mins. Picked up bit of a dodgy smell. Felt cables. Splitter plug might've been feeling a bit warm. Unplugged it. Smell much stronger, smoke coming off the plug and ( obviously) metal bits hot af!!
Could be dodgy cheap splitter. From about 10 years ago when I used to use it on a previous ICE vehicle.
Informed wife that's a no and fingers crossed no damage done as 1000 mile+ holiday on from tomorrow ?

 

[webhiker]

Wauv, that was significant!!
As I understand it, the 15A fuse did not blow! I'm convinced that a 15A fuse WILL blow just slightly over 15A.
That assumption clears both the coolbox and the power socket. (I stress it's an assumption).
That leaves the "splitter". 15A is a significant current, thus the cables must be able to carry it. I use the phrase "cables" intentionally, rather than leads or cords, indicating they must be of an adequate size.
At this time, I can only support you in not jeopardise the up coming vacation.
Good of you making the test up front ?

 

[DaevM]

Thanks for that - using ice blocks for the journey and 240v at destinations.... All sounds a bit desperate really ?? ... and yes, 15a fyse seems fine - at least the dash cams still working off it ?

 

[dsimpkins]

What's the splitter rated at, sounds like it's the weak point? It may have a sticker or label on it?

 

[siteguru]

... or if it's melted, maybe not anymore.

 

[DaevM]

What's the splitter rated at, sounds like it's the weak point? It may have a sticker or label on it?

Rated as cheap chinese tat. Only labels seem to be 12v/24v next to 12v sockets. Usb not labelled. Think I used to use it for iPod/phone, so very low power. Coolbox obviously a bit too serious for it so will sling.

Now come across a pending P1EBD2 code checking outstanding codes on OBDII monitor. This seems to indicate there will be problems with DC charging next time I try ( tomorrow 0800hrs with 150 miles of first leg still to go ?).
I really shouldn't do this ?

( Off to test on a fastned)

...well, that worked fine.... ?

 

[dsimpkins]

So by my calculations, your fridge should draw 4 Amps (48w / 12v) and I doubt your dashcam pulls much current. A new 12v splitter should solve your problems. Here's one you should be able to pick up locally rated at 10 Amps. THere are others that also have USB sockets if you need them. All the Halfords ones appear to be rated at 10 Amps.

2× 12V Power Sockets | Halfords UK