How to install a dash cam
Abby Wingett | 6th May 2023 | 5 minutes to read
Installing a dash cam might seem like a daunting process, but aside from dealing with some wiring, there aren’t too many internal components to worry about, and most dash cams will come with a guide to starting up the unit itself.
This Know How guide will show you how simple installing a dash cam can be, with step-by-step instructions that will have you recording that family road trip in no time.
Here are some of the topics we’ll cover in this guide:
What Usually Comes in a Dash Camera Box
- Instructions/a quick start guide
- Dash camera – front, rear, or both
- Micro SD card
- 12v accessory power cable or hard wiring kit
- Mounting clips to discreetly mounting to the windscreen
How Do I Install a Dash Camera?
Dash cameras can be installed in two different ways depending on your chosen model. These include via the cigarette plug as a DIY solution or installing a dash camera using a hardwire kit. Parking mode will not work with the cigarette plug as most power sockets turn off with the engine.
Once you have decided which model you are going to install, all that is left is to fit the dash camera to your vehicle. This can vary depending on the model, brand and if you are installing one or two cameras.
Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to install a dash camera using the cigarette plug:
Step 1: Turn Off the Vehicle
You will need to ensure your vehicle is turned off; open the cover of the SD card slot, then push the SD card into the slot until it is in place, and then close the cover.
Step 2: Clean the Windscreen
Clean the inside of the windscreen using a glass cleaner and a glass cloth.
Step 3: Place the Dash Cam
Peel the film off the double-sided tape and place the dash camera on the windscreen behind the rear-view mirror. Push down firmly to ensure that the double-sided tape has made contact with the windscreen firmly. Make sure to not put the dash camera in any location as it can obstruct your vision.
Step 4: Position the Dash Cam
Once stuck in place, ensure the camera is facing forward outside the window, and we recommend that the camera is pointing down slightly around 10° degrees to ensure optimum view.
Step 5: Fitting a Rear Camera
If you are also fitting a rear camera, you will need to repeat steps 1, 2, 3, and 4.
Step 6: Connect the Dash Cam
Now it is time to connect the dash camera up; due to all models having different connection outputs, please follow the instructions in the dash camera box to successfully connect the dash camera up.
Step 7: Hide the Cables
Once you have connected the dash camera in, you will want to hide the cables to ensure they are out of reach, so they aren’t in your vision. Use a pry tool to successfully tuck the cable into the rubber window seal or headliner, then continue routing the wire along the a-pillar down towards the floor.
Then run the cable under the glovebox until you reach the cigarette lighter socket. You may need to use cable clips to ensure the cable is securely tucked away. Just like the front cable for your rear camera, you will need to hide the cable by tucking the cable between the windscreen and headliner and continuing all the way along the different pillars to you reach the front dash camera to plug the cable into the front dash camera.
Step 8: Plug in the Dash Cam
Plug the power cord into the cigarette lighter and turn your vehicle on; your dash camera will now automatically start recording.
Maintain Your Dash Cam With Formulated Glass Cleaner
Since all dash cams mount inside the car, it is important to maintain a clean windscreen in order to allow the dash cam to function correctly. Glass surfaces need to be maintained regularly; just like cleaning your car, it is important to remove dirt, airborne contaminants, and bugs.
Built-up dirt, road grime or salt spray can severely compromise the performance of your dash cam. Without a clear windscreen, the camera will struggle to record the finer details you need from the footage, such as license plates.
We recommend keeping on top of this with a quality windscreen cleaner and even a water repellent solution to prevent rain build-up from blocking the camera. This is also a great idea for reversing cameras and sensors on your vehicle.
Repco stock a vast array of leading brands to make cleaning your windscreen easier than ever from Bars Bugs, Rain-X, Bowden's Own, Armor All, and Eclipse. We’ve also got you covered for dash cams, offering XView, Uniden, BlackVue, and many other brands that will help you keep your car, and your wallet, protected.
