Fitting a car dash cam is a straightforward process that primarily involves mounting the device, connecting its power, and neatly routing the cables. For the simplest mirror-mounted or front-facing wired cameras, you can often just plug it in and go, by attaching it to the window and pointing the lens to the road, then adjusting the viewing angle by rotating the camera.
Here's a detailed guide to installing your car dash cam:
1. Choose the Right Location for Your Dash Cam
The placement of your dash cam is crucial for optimal recording and to avoid obstructing your view.
- Ideal Spot: Typically, the best spot is on the passenger side of the rearview mirror, high up on the windshield. This position keeps the camera out of your direct line of sight but still provides a clear, central view of the road.
- Avoid Obstructions: Ensure the camera's lens is not blocked by the rearview mirror, sun visors, or windshield wipers.
- Legal Considerations: Check local laws regarding windshield mounts, as some regions have restrictions on where devices can be placed.
2. Prepare the Windshield Surface
A clean surface ensures a strong and lasting bond for your dash cam's mount.
- Clean Thoroughly: Use a glass cleaner or rubbing alcohol to clean the area where you intend to mount the camera.
- Dry Completely: Allow the surface to dry fully before proceeding. Any moisture or dirt can compromise the adhesive or suction cup.
3. Mount the Dash Cam Securely
Most dash cams come with either a suction cup mount or an adhesive pad mount.
- Suction Cup Mount:
- Press the suction cup firmly against the cleaned windshield.
- Flip the lever or twist the base to create a strong vacuum seal.
- Initial Adjustment: As per the reference, after attaching it to the window, point the lens to the road to get a general direction.
- Adhesive Mount:
- Peel off the protective backing from the adhesive pad.
- Press the mount firmly onto the windshield for at least 30 seconds.
- Allow the adhesive to cure for a few hours (or as recommended by the manufacturer) before attaching the camera, especially in cold weather.
- Initial Adjustment: Similar to suction cups, once the mount is secured, point the lens to the road.
4. Connect the Power and Route the Cables
This step ensures continuous power and a tidy installation. Most simple dash cams are wired cameras that will need to be plugged in to a power source.
- Power Source:
- Cigarette Lighter Socket (12V Outlet): This is the most common and simplest method. Plug the dash cam's power adapter into your vehicle's 12V auxiliary power outlet. This allows for the "plug it in and go" functionality mentioned in the reference.
- Hardwiring Kit (Optional): For a cleaner, permanent installation that frees up the 12V socket and enables parking mode surveillance, you can use a hardwiring kit. This involves connecting the dash cam directly to your car's fuse box. This typically requires more technical expertise or professional installation.
- Cable Routing:
- Neatness is Key: Avoid dangling wires that can obstruct your view or get tangled.
- Tuck into Headliner: Gently push the power cable into the gap between the windshield and the headliner (car ceiling fabric).
- Down the A-Pillar: Route the cable down the A-pillar (the frame between the windshield and the front door). You can often tuck it under the plastic trim. Use a trim removal tool for easier access if needed.
- Under the Glove Box/Dashboard: Continue routing the cable under the dashboard or along the passenger side footwell towards the 12V outlet.
- Secure with Clips: Use small adhesive cable clips (often included with dash cams) to secure any loose sections of the cable.
5. Adjust Viewing Angle and Initial Setup
With the camera mounted and powered, fine-tune its position and settings.
- Final Viewing Angle Adjustment: Once the camera is attached and powered, adjust the viewing angle by rotating the camera itself on its mount. Ensure the camera captures a wide, clear view of the road ahead, with roughly 60% road and 40% sky visible in the frame. Avoid having too much dashboard visible, as it wastes recording space.
- Insert SD Card: Make sure a high-quality microSD card (Class 10 or higher, 32GB-256GB generally recommended) is inserted into the dash cam.
- Initial Settings:
- Format SD Card: Format the microSD card within the dash cam's settings to ensure proper functionality.
- Date and Time: Set the correct date and time.
- Loop Recording: Verify that loop recording is enabled, which allows the camera to continuously record by overwriting the oldest footage.
- G-Sensor Sensitivity: Adjust the G-sensor (impact detection) sensitivity to prevent false positives from bumps but ensure it activates during accidents.
- Parking Mode (if applicable): If your dash cam supports parking mode, configure its settings.
6. Test the Dash Cam
Before driving off, perform a quick test to confirm everything is working correctly.
- Record a Short Clip: Start your car and let the dash cam power on and begin recording.
- Review Footage: Disconnect the camera (or remove the SD card) and review the recorded footage on your phone or computer to ensure the video quality, angle, and audio (if enabled) are satisfactory.
By following these steps, you can effectively fit your car dash cam, ensuring reliable recording and peace of mind on the road.
