Dash Cam Installation Guide 2024

Installing a car dash cam is a smart investment in your vehicle's safety. In this guide, we'll walk you through two methods: using a cigarette lighter adapter (CLA) or the direct wiring method. We'll also answer common questions to ensure a smooth installation process.

How to install a dash cam?

Using the Lighter Adapter (CLA)

This installation method is simple and convenient, requiring no modifications to the vehicle's electrical system, but may cause unstable power supply to the dash cam. The installation steps are as follows:

1. Choose the installation point of the dash cam, usually recommended behind the rearview mirror, in the center of the windshield, for an optimal viewing angle.

2. Clean the installation location on the windshield, attach the mounting bracket and secure the dash cam to the bracket.

3. Connect the cables to the dash cam .

4. Route the power cable, inserting it behind the headliner and the rubber drip seal along the A pillar, going down and passing through the bottom of the dashboard,

5. Insert the power cord into the lighter socket.

6. Insert the memory card into the dash cam, turn on the car and the dash cam will start recording.

Direct wiring method

This installation method provides a more stable power supply and does not require the cigarette lighter socket, but requires more steps and modifications to the vehicle's electrical system, which may require specialized skills or professional personnel to complete. The steps are as follows:

1. Necessary tools

Direct wiring kit
Tournevis with test lamp
Long-tipped tweezers
Allen key
Coating Removal Tool

2. Locate the mounting points

Choose a spot for the dash cam: usually behind the rearview mirror, in the center of the windshield.

3. Install the dash cam mount

Clean the chosen spot, attach the mount and install the dash cam on it.

4. Find the fuse box

Locate the fuse box and ground point, often under the dashboard on the driver or passenger side.

5. How to install the dash cam cable

Connect the cables to the dash cam and route the power cable. Route it along the headliner, the A-pillar seal, and up to the fuse box, avoiding the airbag wires.

⭐Note: In the direct wiring kit, the yellow wire is for the battery and must be connected to a constant fuse slot. The red wire is for the ACC and must be connected to an ACC slot, while the black wire is for ground and must be connected to a ground point.

6. Connect to the grounding point

Unscrew the ground point bolt, connect the black ground wire from the direct wiring kit and tighten the bolt.

7. Find a constant fuse gap

Turn off the lighter, use the test lamp to detect a crack that remains powered.

find a constant fuse slot

8. Install the fuse

Use long-nosed tweezers to remove the fuse and install it into the yellow (battery) wire of the direct wiring kit.

9. Insert the yellow (battery) cable into the original fuse slot.

10. Connect the ACC slot

Use the test light to locate a slot that is only powered when the cigarette lighter is turned on. Remove the fuse, install it in the red (ACC) wire of the direct wiring kit, and insert the wire into the original fuse slot.

⭐Note: The camera now has constant power, and the built-in voltage cut-off function will protect your battery.

11. Use adhesive straps to secure excess power cord.

12. Test the dash cam

Insert the memory card into the dash cam, power it on, and set it up.

Summary

With this comprehensive guide and answers to frequently asked questions, you can confidently install a dash cam in your car, improving driving safety. A properly installed dash cam ensures you capture important images whenever you need them.

Dash cam installation FAQs

1. Where to install the dash cam?

The ideal location is behind the rearview mirror, to minimize obstruction and maximize visibility.

2. How much does it cost to install a dash cam?

DIY installation costs are generally low and mainly include the dash cam and necessary accessories. Professional installation may incur additional costs.

3. Does installing a dash cam void the warranty?

In many cases, installing a dash cam does not void your vehicle's warranty. However, it's a good idea to check the warranty terms to avoid potential problems.

4. How long does installation take?

Installation time varies depending on the method chosen and the complexity of the vehicle, usually between 30 minutes and 2 hours.

5. How can I hide the dash cam cables?

Hide your dash cam cables along your vehicle's trim or headliner using cable clips, adhesive straps, or cable channels for a neat, professional installation.