How to Install a Dash Cam (Front & Rear)

Video: HOW TO Install a Front and Rear Dash Cam! (UPDATED Complete Guide) (YouTube)

A dash cam is one of the best value upgrades you can make: it films every drive, protects you in a dispute, and takes about an hour to install with no special tools. Here’s the clean way to do it.

1. Pick the mounting spot

Place the camera high on the windshield, tucked behind the rear-view mirror so it doesn’t block your view. The lens should sit in the wiper-swept area. Clean the glass with alcohol before sticking the mount — adhesive pads only bond once. Mirror-style cameras strap directly over your existing mirror instead.

2. Route the cable

1. From the camera, push the cable up into the headliner gap along the top of the windshield.
2. Run it down the passenger-side A-pillar (gently pop the trim; mind any curtain airbag markings — route the wire behind the airbag, never across it).
3. Continue under the glovebox / door-sill trim to the power source. A plastic trim tool helps; a butter knife wrapped in tape works.

3. Power it

12V socket or USB — plug and play, done in minutes. The only downside is an occupied socket and no recording when parked.

Hardwire kit — taps an ignition-switched fuse in the fuse box using an add-a-fuse, giving you a hidden install and enabling parking mode (the camera guards the car while parked). Kits with low-voltage cutoff protect your battery. If that’s beyond your comfort level, any shop that fits car audio can do it in half an hour.

4. Rear camera

Run the rear cable along the same headliner channel to the back glass, through the rubber boot into the tailgate on hatchbacks/SUVs. Leave slack for the tailgate to open. Stick the rear camera high and centred.

5. First start

• Format the memory card in the camera’s own menu (not on a computer) — dash cams need cards rated for continuous recording (High Endurance class).
• Set the time, check both lenses’ angles on the live view, and do a short test drive.

Tips

• Loop recording overwrites old clips automatically — lock important footage or pull the card after an incident.
• Reformat the card every month or two; cards are consumables and cheap insurance.