Here we will discuss Dash Cam Installation: The Complete 2024 Guide. If there is a need to improve safety on the road and save yourself from any accident, the connected dashcam in the car is the best way to protect yourself from any incident. It can offer extra protection while driving to ensure safety on the road.
Here we will discuss the details of the installation of a dash cam in the car, with some details. So let’s get started with Dash Cam Installation: The Complete Guide.
How to Install a Car Dash Cam
Here, different steps are explained for the installation of the dash cam.
- First of all, find the best and most secure place for connection. Set the dash cam at the midpoint to increase coverage of both the left and right sides of the vehicle. For most users, the placement of the dash cam behind the rearview mirror is best configured so that the dash cam is accurately mounted and does not affect driver visibility. Before installation, discuss with the state laws in your area. Different rules can be used before the connection of devices to the windshield of the vehicle. Normally, placing the dash cam behind the rearview mirror away from the driver’s view is the best place.
- Find the closest power supply where you can mount the dash cam. For most drivers, US outlets or 12-volt cigarette sockets can be used in the armrest part, on the center console, or at a position on any side of the driver or passenger side. With the closet power supply, we cannot decide how the cable can be routed to reduce any cable obstruction. If you decide to use the vehicle USB charging outlet, ensure the power outlet is off with the vehicle and do not maintain power when the vehicle is off.
- Now route the cable in the frame of the car so that you can hide the cables. By using and understanding the structure and frame of the car, we can effectively set the dash cam.
What are car pillars?
It is a vertical support on the car and is mentioned with letters from A to D from front to back. The A-pillar is the frontmost pillar and mostly holds the windshield in position. The B pillar exists behind the A pillar and separates the front seats from the rear seats.
The C pillars are on the passenger side behind the rear seats. D-pillars are common for larger vehicles like trucks or vans. With the identification of these pillars, we can use pillars for the guidance of cable through the frame of the car and conceal them for a simple dash cam connection.
How to Install a Front Dash Cam
Route the power cable in the top headliner in the direction of the power supply, either on the left or right side. Continue through the headliner, and with the trim tool, pry open the A-pillar covering and tuck the cable in the crevice of the A-pillar. Move the cable down a pillar by hiding the cable in a rubber weather strip. Use a trim tool with a tuck-in cable. Continue routing the cable through the underside of the dashboard and plugging the cable into the power source.
How to Install a Rear Dash Cam
For users who needed a rear dash cam, similar installation features were used as a front dash cam. Based on vehicles, the longer cable can be used. Put the rear camera at the top center of the rear windshield. This position is best since it covers a high amount of angle from the left to the right side. When mounted, route the rear camera cable in the headliner of the rear windshield and move to the pillars in the rubber weather strip until it reaches the A-pillar. Ensure you are routing the rear camera cable in the reverse direction of the front cable to minimize overlapping. When you get a pillar processed to route the rear camera cable in the front windshield headliner until it reaches the front dash cam, Put the rear camera cable in the front dash cam to finish the rear camera connection.
Main Types of Dashcams and Their Fittings
Front Cam
It is the main and simple type of dash cam in a front-facing camera. This is mounted on the front windshield below the rearview mirror and set at an angle to get a full view of the road at the front.
Rear Cam
It is either a separate camera that is mounted on the rear windshield or a second camera that is part of the dual dash cam. Rear cameras help to capture footage from the back side of the vehicle, which can be best for rear-end accidents or when reversing the vehicle.
Dual Dash Cam
This circuit comes with both front and back cameras. They are normally best for protecting and recording any incident. They needed some expertise for the installation and some extra effort.
Mirror Dash Cam
These cameras are connected to the existing rearview mirror. When recording footage, they work as rearview mirrors. It can be best to use it for a less conspicuous dash cam connection. Note that it does not matter what type connects each dash cam accurately to cover all views of the vehicle around the road.
The best car spots for dash cam installation
Behind the rearview mirror
It is a common type of dash cam installation. Out it below or close to the rearview mirror, make sure it does not obstruct the view while driving. It is the best position to get a clear view.
On the dashboard
Some drivers like mounting their dash cams on the dashboard. It can work well for smaller dash cams that do not obstruct the view. But we must make sure that the camera is mounted in such a way as to avoid moving while driving.
Rear Windshield
If you install a rear dash cam, the best spot is the top or lower center of the rear windshield. The cameras must be positioned in ways that can get a complete view of the road from the back side of the vehicle.
Over the License Plate
Some rear cameras are made to connect over the license plate. It can be the best option for some vehicles, but there is a need to make sure that the cameras are waterproof and protected from dirt and dust.
What to Do After DashCam Installation
After installing the dash cam, configure settings like time, date and resolution, park mode, and other settings. Now your camera is ready to show. Note that you should check your device after some time. Ensure that it is accurately connected, and check the cables for any damage. With that, check that it is recording the videos regularly. It is helpful to save our driving on the roads.
Regular maintenance requirements
Proper maintenance is important for a dash cam to maintain in good condition. Without an accurate working camera, you can stop, so follow these points.
- Inspect connected hardware and cables after a month or two months. Ensure that all screws and fastenings are securely tightened and do not show any signs of damage.
- Clean the lens once a month with the use of lens wipes and a soft cloth. It will make sure that images are clear and videos are of high quality.
- Make video backups regularly.
- If your dash cam comes with GPS, ensure that it is updated for proper tracking and location data.
Faqs
How much does it cost to install DashCam?
The installation cost of a dash cam is between $35 and $50.
Can I install a dash cam myself?
It is a simple process that does not need any tools.
Do dashcams need to be professionally installed?
The hardwiring for dashcams is complicated and needs professional installation to make sure it is done safely and accurately.
How much does a DashCam cost?
The simple front-view dash cam costs about $80, but professional models cost between $100 and $250. For a cam that has features like video, night vision, and collision detection, the cost is $150 to $300.
What are the disadvantages of dash cams?
Its main drawback is that it is a one-sided camera.
Do dashcams require WiFi?
The WiFi features help the camera make a connection with the phone wirelessly without the use of any internet connection.
Will a dash cam drain the battery?
Its answer is no, there is very little chance. Dash cams normally use less than five watts during recording and less when they are in parking mode.
How many hours do dashcams record?
- Best Overall: Nextbase 622GW Dash Cam.
- Best Value: 70 Mai A800S Dash Cam.
- Best for Easy Setup: Garmin Dash Cam 57.
- Best for Rideshare Drivers: Vantrue N4 Pro 3-Channel Dash Cam.
- Best for New Drivers: Garmin Dash Cam Live.
Are dashcams expensive?
They cost as little as $80.
Is 1080P Dashcam good enough?
For normal driving and documentation of accidents, 1080p resolution is often sufficient.
Is a dashcam good for your car?
The dash cam documents driving and helps to record anything happening on the road.
Are dashcams effective?
They are improving day by day, but note that they still do not capture 360-degree areas. Front-facing cameras do not capture complete footage.