How to hardwire dash cam
Having a dash cam in your vehicle can be a great way to ensure your safety on the road and provide evidence in case of an accident. While dash cams come with a variety of convenient features, one important consideration is how to power them. Many dash cam owners choose to hardwire their cameras, as it offers a clean and permanent installation that doesn’t rely on the vehicle’s cigarette lighter or USB ports.
Hardwiring your dash cam involves connecting the camera directly to your vehicle’s fuse box or electrical system. This not only eliminates the need for visible cables running along your dashboard, but also allows the camera to power on and off automatically with the ignition. It also frees up your cigarette lighter or USB ports, which can be used to charge other devices or power other accessories.
To start the hardwiring process, you will need several tools and materials, including a hardwire kit, which typically includes a voltage regulator, inline fuse, wiring harness, and connectors. Before getting started, it’s important to read your dash cam’s instruction manual carefully and ensure that you have the necessary tools and knowledge to complete the job safely.
The first step in hardwiring your dash cam is to locate the appropriate fuse in your vehicle’s fuse box. This fuse should be easily accessible and labeled as “ACC” or something similar, indicating that it is controlled by the ignition. Once you’ve identified the correct fuse, you’ll need to use a fuse tap or add-a-circuit adapter to connect the dash cam’s power cable to it.
When connecting the wires, it’s important to follow the instructions provided with your hardwire kit and ensure that the positive and negative wires are connected correctly. This usually involves stripping the wires, attaching them to the fuse tap or add-a-circuit adapter, and then reconnecting the fuse and inserting it back into the fuse box. Once everything is connected, you can tidy up the wires and secure them using zip ties or adhesive clips.
Before finalizing the installation, it’s important to test the dash cam to ensure that it powers on and off with the ignition and that the camera is functioning properly. Once you’ve confirmed this, you can secure the dash cam in place and neatly tuck away any excess wiring. Congratulations, you have successfully hardwired your dash cam, providing a seamless and reliable power source for your device.
Hardwiring your dash cam may require some time and effort, but the benefits are well worth it. Not only does it provide a clean and professional-looking installation, but it also ensures that your dash cam is always powered and ready to record any unexpected incidents on the road. So, if you want to maximize the benefits of your dash cam and enjoy a hassle-free installation, consider hardwiring your device for a reliable power source.
Step-by-step guide to hardwiring your dash cam
Step 1: Gather the necessary supplies
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary supplies. You will need:
– A dash cam with a hardwire kit
– A 12-volt circuit tester or multimeter
– An add-a-fuse kit with the appropriate fuses
– Wire strippers
– Electrical tape
Step 2: Find a suitable location for your dash cam
Choose a suitable location to mount your dash cam. Ideally, it should have a clear view of the road and be easily accessible for any adjustments. Avoid placing it in a spot that obstructs your vision or interferes with the vehicle’s airbags.
Step 3: Prepare your vehicle
Turn off your vehicle and identify the fuse box. Open the fuse box and locate a fuse that powers your ignition or accessory circuits. Make sure this fuse is not critical to the operation of your vehicle and that it has power when the ignition is turned on.
Step 4: Connect the add-a-fuse kit
Remove the selected fuse from its socket and insert it into the add-a-fuse kit. Plug the add-a-fuse kit into the vacant slot in the fuse box.
Step 5: Connect the dash cam
Connect the red wire from the dash cam’s hardwire kit to the add-a-fuse kit. Use a wire stripper to expose a small section of the red wire, then wrap it around the metal part of the add-a-fuse kit and secure it with electrical tape. Connect the black wire from the hardwire kit to a suitable grounding point in your vehicle, such as a metal bolt or screw.
Step 6: Test the connection
Before you mount your dash cam, test the connection to ensure it is working properly. Turn on your vehicle’s ignition and check if the dash cam powers up. If it does, you have successfully hardwired your dash cam.
Step 7: Mount your dash cam
Mount your dash cam in the chosen location using the provided adhesive or suction cup. Ensure it is secure and does not obstruct your view of the road.
Step 8: Tidy up the wires
Use cable clips or zip ties to neatly secure and organize the wires of your dash cam. This will prevent them from dangling and potentially causing distractions while driving.
Step 9: Test your dash cam
Finally, test your dash cam again to ensure it is functioning properly. Check the video recording and other features to make sure everything is working as intended.
Note: It is important to consult your vehicle’s manual and follow the manufacturer’s instructions when performing any electrical modifications or installations. If you are unsure about any step, consider seeking professional assistance.
Choose the right location for your dash cam
When installing a dash cam, one of the most important factors to consider is the location. Choosing the right location for your dash cam is crucial as it will determine the quality of the footage you capture and the overall effectiveness of the device.
Here are some key points to keep in mind when selecting the perfect spot for your dash cam:
| 1. Visibility | Make sure that the dash cam is not obstructing your view while driving. It should be positioned in a way that does not hinder your line of sight. | |||
| 2. Stability | Choose a location that provides a stable and secure mount for your dash cam. It should be able to withstand vibrations and bumpy rides without falling off or losing positioning. | |||
| 3. Coverage | Consider the field of vision your dash cam provides. Optimal placement would offer a wide-angle coverage of the road ahead, ensuring that important details are not missed. | |||
| 4. Reflections | Avoid mounting the dash cam in a location where it may be affected by reflections from the windshield. Glare can distort the captured footage and impair its clarity. | |||
5. Wi
Gather the necessary tools and materialsBefore attempting to hardwire your dash cam, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools and materials. This ensures that you have everything you need for a successful installation. Tools:Screwdriver: You’ll need a screwdriver for removing any panels or covers to access the wiring in your vehicle. Trim removal tool: This tool helps safely remove trims and panels without damaging them. Wire cutter / stripper: You’ll need wire cutters to trim and strip the wires for connecting your dash cam. Electrical tape: Electrical tape is used for securing and insulating the connected wires. Double-sided mounting tape: This tape is used to securely mount the dash cam onto the windshield. Materials:Dash cam: Purchase a dash cam that meets your requirements and preference. Hardwire kit: It is essential to have a hardwire kit specifically designed for dash cams, which includes a power adapter and necessary connectors. Note: Some hardwire kits may not include a ground wire, so you may need to purchase it separately. Add-a-circuit fuse tap: This is used to tap into your vehicle’s fuse box and connect the dash cam to a power source. Having these tools and materials ready will make the hardwiring process easier and ensure you have everything needed to successfully install your dash cam. Follow the wiring instructionsWhen hardwiring a dash cam, it’s important to carefully follow the wiring instructions to ensure a proper and safe installation. Below are the general steps to follow: Step 1: Locate the fuse boxThe first step is to locate the fuse box in your vehicle. The fuse box is usually found under the dashboard or in the engine compartment. Refer to your vehicle’s manual to find the exact location. Step 2: Identify the appropriate fuseNext, you need to identify an appropriate fuse to tap into for powering your dash cam. Choose a fuse that is not essential to the vehicle’s operation and has a rating suitable for the power requirements of the dash cam. Check the fuse box diagram or consult the vehicle’s manual for guidance. Step 3: Prepare the hardwire kitPrepare the hardwire kit that came with your dash cam by connecting the necessary wires. The kit usually includes a power cable, ground cable, and splicing connectors. Follow the instructions provided with the kit to properly connect the wires. Step 4: Connect the power and ground wiresConnect the power wire from the hardwire kit to the fuse tap or fuse holder of the chosen fuse. Ensure a secure connection. Then, connect the ground wire to a metal grounding point in your vehicle. It’s important to choose a clean metal surface to ensure a good ground connection. Step 5: Test the installationOnce all the connections are made, it’s crucial to test the installation before tucking away any wires. Start the vehicle and check if the dash cam powers on and functions properly. Also, make sure the dash cam turns off when you turn off the ignition. If everything is working correctly, you can proceed to tidy up the wiring.
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