How to install a dash cam.
After several years of dash cam advances and modifications, it is clear that there is more to it than just loading the SD card, sticking the camera on the windshield, and plugging it in. Here is a basic outline of processes that should be considered when determining how to install a dash cam to your front windshield.
Step #1
Placement.
The placement of the dash cam should be your first concern when installing one. Your new dash cam comes with either a suction mount or a mount that involves semi-permanent adhesive. Suppose that suction allows you to try different camera placements until you find the most effective one. Think more carefully when dealing with tricky situations because you probably only have one or two chances to get it right. Find a spot that gives you excellent vision without any compromises to your driving ability as a distraction, this is where you may find it handy to invest in a mobile dash cam installation by a professional.
If you are installing it yourself, you want the camera close to the vehicle’s centerline for optimal coverage on both sides. The blocking of the driver’s visual field is subject to the law, so make sure you comply with these regulations. Higher is generally better and check to make sure that the rearview mirror is not blocking the internal camera or the infrared lights that surround it.
It usually works best to position in either of these two spots:
1) Behind or almost behind the rearview mirror
2) Low at where the dashboard and windshield meet.
Step #2
Cleaning the mounting spot.
Use a glass cleaner and a towel made of microfibre to wipe out the area where your dash camera is going to be mounted. When dirt and dust are cleaned in this manner, the glue on your dash camera will stick better and for a longer period of time. Decontaminating the surface is often a simple yet commonly overlooked procedure that should be done for optimal adhesiveness. Make sure the surface is bone-dry before sticking any mounts to the area.
Step #3
Secure the placement.
After cleaning the mounting spot, place the mounting bracket of your dash camera on it. Wait for at least 20 minutes in order to make sure that the adhesive tape sticks firmly. You can apply firm pressure for peace of mind during the 20 minute waiting time.
Step #4
Removing the adhesive mount’s protective covering
The removal of the protective plastic sheet from the adhesive pad is an often overlooked part of installing a dash cam, this is only subject to some dash cam designs of course. But be sure not to peel too much and actually remove the adhesive itself. Gently use your nails to pick and then slip the corner of the adhesive section for an edge.
Step #5
Putting cables in place
The next step, after mounting the dash cam, is to route the power and other lines to where they need to go (GPS, rear camera, etc.) The easiest connection may be to your cigarette lighter, but the ease of access does come with its fair share of compromises. You may lose the ability to orchestrate your parking mode and allowing your dash cam to switch on during times where you are away from the car ( a super important feature). Cables can also get caught up as they dangle from the mirror and ultimately, cause a distraction for the driver.
If you are looking for a clean, tidy and efficient design that secures parking mode, constant power sourcing and no compromises to the design/output, then a hardwired connection to your fuse box is the best solution. Those who wish not to draw power from the car battery can opt for an external battery accessory as an alternate power source as well, which BlackVue offer as an extra.
Step #6
Tidy Up
The next step is to hide the wires of your dash camera. To do this, tuck your dash camera wire between the top of your car’s windshield and the interior of the car.
As mentioned briefly above, most drivers do not want wires clogging up the cabin or blocking their view. A small portion of the cable may need to be seen against the windshield, but the remainder can be tucked away conveniently somewhere else, including behind the rearview mirror, under the molding, under the carpet or seats, or around and behind the back bumper. For these connections, a professional dash cam installer is the best option as they will not how to anchor your dash cam, whilst achieving that nice and tidy look
Step #7
Power Connection & Test
In the final step, connect your dash cam to the power outlet that is found in the center console of your vehicle, given that you connected via the cigarette lighter.
Otherwise, you will not have to worry about this if you had it hardwired, considering that it should automatically switch on upon turning on the car and vice versa – one of the cool features of an advanced dash camera professionally installed.
Give it a test drive and see how it performs. Collect your recordings and view them on your phone or online to see your footage.
How does it work?
When you drive, a dash cam is attached to the windscreen and records the road. It can be operated by the cigarette lighter cord or connected to the fuse box via a hardwired connection (professionally done). When you turn on the ignition, the dash cam starts recording automatically. It records in a loop, with each clip recorded on a micro-SD card and the duration will often depend on your memory card or unit itself.
Should I get a dash cam?
Definitely!
Dash Cams can provide numerous benefits to their users, some insurers across the globe are now offering annual reductions of up to 30% for drivers who use a dash cam, which can be significant with increased premiums. However of course, this will vary from insurance provider to provider. Furthermore, other reasons to get a dash cam include:
1) Parking Mode protects you while parked.
2) Combat crime and bad/dangerous drivers
3) Resolve occurrences’ conflicts more quickly
4) Improves driving efficiency
5) Protect your belongings and deters thieves
6) Avoid costly claims against you for damages that may be falsely accused
7) Great for recording nice footage of your scenic drives – great memories
Car Care Advice For The Everyday Driver & Enthusiast
As a seasoned author on our team, Chester also known as ‘Gadget’, for his love for all things mechanical, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table, particularly when it comes to automotive topics.
