Just want to confirm to everyone here that what I got solved the problem perfectly! I now get to have my iPod charged, and I don't have to reconnect it every time I start the car. Success!
For reference, here's what I got off eBay:
iPod iPhone iTouch No Error Charging Adapter 12V 5V I 12V 5V | eBay
Not sure how long that link will last; but it was $9.99 shipped and arrived in just TWO days, literally. Insanely fast shipping and perfectly working results. Can't complain!