How to Install a Dash Cam in the Right Position?
3 Answers
Insert the memory card into the slot of the dash cam, and clean the windshield with a car towel. Install the dash cam in a suitable position, taking care not to obstruct the driver's view. Connect the power cable of the dash cam and hide it along the gaps. Plug the power adapter of the dash cam into the car's cigarette lighter, then turn on the dash cam display and adjust the angle to complete the installation.
The ideal position to install a dash cam is right in the middle behind the rearview mirror. This ensures it doesn't obstruct the driver's view while capturing the entire road condition through the windshield. Remember to angle the lens slightly downward so that the edge of the car's hood appears in the bottom quarter of the frame, ensuring a clear view of the license plate of the car ahead. For the power cable, you can tuck it along the top edge of the windshield into the headliner gap, then route it down through the A-pillar trim, and finally plug it into the cigarette lighter. If you're doing it yourself, have a plastic pry tool handy and be gentle when prying the interior panels. After installation, test it for a few days to check if there's any glare affecting visibility in bright sunlight and whether it can still record clearly when the windshield fogs up in rainy weather.
The preferred installation position is at the top center of the windshield, near the rearview mirror base. This location provides the most accurate field of view and does not obstruct the driver's visibility. In terms of height, it is recommended to keep the camera at least 5 cm away from the roof to avoid capturing too much of the ceiling. Before finalizing the position, use a smartphone camera to simulate the angle and ensure full coverage of both A-pillars at the front of the car. I've found that using an electrostatic sticker for temporary positioning—applying the sticker first and then removing the protective film—makes adjustments easier than directly adhering to the glass. When installing the rear camera on the rear windshield, avoid the heating wire zones and prioritize a position close to the high-mounted brake light. During wiring, route the cables away from airbag components and avoid using zip ties on them, as this could interfere with deployment in an emergency.
