Installing A Dash Cam: Common Issues and Solutions

If you're thinking of buying a dash cam, you might be having second thoughts if it is essential, or you could go on without it. Today, some car manufacturers have not yet considered adding an installed camera in their precious products, leaving this dilemma for the buyer to decide. Dash cams have become a vital car accessory for private car owners and ride-hailing services mainly because of its benefits. Whether you already have a dash cam or still considering to buy one, it is essential to familiarize yourself with its common issue and how to fix them.

4 Common Issues and Solutions When Installing a Dash Cam

This tiny camera mounted on the car dashboard can serve as a first-hand evidence in case of accidents. It can also be a parking and traffic guide with its useful features and functions. Not only that, but you can also use it as a recorder of your travel or anything unexpected that you might encounter on the road (your dashcam might just capture the next viral thing). Like other technology pieces in the market, dashcams come in various models and an array of hardware specs.

No matter what brand of dashcam you use, each first-time buyer can have their issues during installation. Most dash cams are easy to install, although a professional dash cam installation is key to creating a reliably functioning and safe system. Below is a list of some installation issues and how you can solve them:

#1 Where is the best place to mount a dash cam?

There are three main areas to check before installing your dash cam - the windshield piper, the sunshade tint, and the driver's seat. Make sure to see to it that your dash cam is not pointed directly at the top sunshade tint or shaded dots. If the sunshade tint is on the top of your windshield, lower the dash cam until the camera lens looks underneath it.

The same goes for the windshield piper area. Make sure that the dash cam lens captures the windshield wiper's coverage. Sit down in the driver's seat and double-check if the dash camera location will be in your line of sight. Dash cams are not necessary to see while driving. Mount the dash cam up and out of sight as much as possible.

#2 How do you hide messy cables dangling in the car?

Dangling and messy cables can be a blindspot and may compromise your safety. For the best results, you may use a trim tool kit to help you lay the cable. Locate the power source and connect the adaptor that connects your power cable. From the power slot, look under the dashboard and find where the cable can be attached. Tapes can be used to keep them in the tuck.

Under the glove compartment, look for an opening to fit in the cable until it reaches the rubber part of the windshield pillars. Remove the pillar cover, then insert the cable so you can hide the cable inside. As soon as you placed the wires inside, put some tape to hide them and then put back the cover. Run the remaining wires along with the headliner, making sure that they are tucked in properly.

#3 Is it necessary to hardwire a dash cam?

Hardwiring has its pros and cons. It can be an extremely technical and challenging process. If you choose to hardwire your dash cam, it is recommended to have it professionally done. Although tutorials are free and available online, proper research and details must strictly apply. To reap the full benefits of dash cam while protecting both vehicle and camera, hardwiring can go a long way.

Even when the vehicle is turned off, dash cams can operate all the time when connected to the fuse box. Worried your dash cam will be out of battery charge? You do not have to worry about remembering to charge since the fuse box provides constant power. While that can be reassuring in your dash cam's battery, it is not the same for your vehicle's battery.

A hardwired dash cam meant to be used for Parking Mode records anytime it detects movement with or without power from an operating vehicle. Since the dash cam will continue to run from a power source, the car's battery will ultimately be drained. You may decide whether recording while not on the road is essential for you. If so, you can buy an extra dash cam battery pack to save your car's battery.

#4 Which fuse should be used?

Cars and trucks generally have two types of circuits inside the fuse box. Each circuit is protected by an individual fuse that serves as a test point to determine which type of circuit it may be. To be 100% sure in identifying which circuit should be used, consider utilizing a circuit tester or a multimeter. Constant circuit regularly receives power even when the engine is off. AA or switched circuits is the counterpart of a continuous circuit. It only runs when the engine is on.

The right fuse spot is vital for the power and performance of the dash cam. Fuse slots between 10A and 30A are strongly recommended as they guarantee enough fuel to the dash cam. Fuses that control the radio, sunroof, or garage door are usually safe to use. To ensure that the right fuse is used, always refer to your vehicle's manual.

With the number of an available dash cam in the market, you can always find the best fit for your budget. Though it has a straightforward use of the added features in high-quality dash cams, create beautiful memories for your next adventures. The full HD and 4K cameras record the best sceneries that you can look back on since you're paying attention to the road. Safety is not the only purpose; it can also add fun.