What to Do If the Dash Cam Blocks the Rearview Mirror?

[Wyatt]

If the dash cam blocks the rearview mirror, you can switch to a camera-style model, which is usually installed on the windshield in front of the rearview mirror and won't obstruct it. The dash cam should be installed in the upper central position of the front windshield, near the interior rearview mirror. The placement should not only be centered but also utilize the small gap behind the right side of the rearview mirror for installation. Then, adjust the angle from the driver's seat. Dash cams are mainly divided into two categories: portable dash cams and aftermarket in-dash DVD dash cams. Portable dash cams can be further categorized into rearview mirror dash cams and data dash cams.

[LillianFitz]

I used to install the dashcam in front of the rearview mirror too, and always felt it blocked my view. Through trial and error, I found that using an adjustable mount to position it in the top left or right corner of the windshield works best—this keeps the rearview mirror area clear. If that doesn’t work, switching to a mini dashcam (matchbox-sized) and sticking it near the rain sensor is another great option, as it takes up almost no space. I also discovered that hiding the power cable inside the A-pillar trim keeps wires tidy and avoids obstructing the rearview mirror. After installation, always check from the driver’s seat to ensure the rearview mirror remains fully visible. Once, after switching to a wide-angle lens, I realized the expanded recording range allowed me to move the dashcam further to the side—a handy trick!

[SanMaya]

My car's dashcam used to always block the rearview mirror, but the issue was resolved by rerouting the wires. Choosing 3M residue-free adhesive to mount it behind the rearview mirror minimizes obstruction, or sticking it to the black area at the top of the windshield also keeps it inconspicuous. A dashcam with a flip-down screen is recommended – flipping the screen down when you need to use the rearview mirror instantly clears the view. It's advisable to opt for a suction cup mount, which allows 360-degree rotation to adjust the angle to the optimal position. Once adjusted, reinforce it with a rubber band to prevent vibration-induced displacement. If the adhesive is placed incorrectly, don't worry – heating the adhesive surface with a hairdryer allows for damage-free removal. After adjustment, remember to test if various seating positions affect the rearview visibility.

[BrodyLynn]

I have several common methods to handle obstruction: choose a rearview mirror mount to install the dash cam parallel to the original mirror, or use adhesive to attach it near the sun visor. Ultra-wide dash cams can be installed horizontally against the windshield, completely avoiding any obstruction. A handy trick is to clip the dash cam onto the sun visor pivot—simply flip the visor aside when you need to expose the rearview mirror. Applying petroleum jelly before sticking allows for damage-free removal. When parked, rotate the dash cam toward the window to avoid blocking the rearview mirror.

[DelEloise]

Think differently and solve the problem by directly switching to a rearview mirror-style dash cam. This involves replacing the original rearview mirror with a smart mirror that has a built-in camera, which doesn’t obstruct the view and even enhances functionality. I installed a 10-inch one with anti-glare features—it automatically dims when hit by high beams from the car behind, which is super practical. Alternatively, you can apply a 5% dark privacy film on the windshield and place the dash cam on it to keep it hidden without blocking your line of sight. Another option is to install an OEM hidden dash cam, which the dealership can integrate into the rearview mirror base, making it completely invisible. The modification cost is slightly higher, but it’s a one-time, permanent solution.

[StAllison]

From a safety perspective, compromising rearview mirror visibility is absolutely unacceptable. I've tried using extended brackets to mount the dashcam suspended above the dashboard or attaching it to the passenger-side windshield. The three most critical checks are: whether the rearview mirror provides complete visibility in your driving posture, whether new blind spots appear when turning the steering wheel, and whether the dashcam shakes during emergency braking. Regularly cleaning the lens can also prevent displacement caused by frequent adjustments. An emergency solution is to install a blind spot detection convex mirror to compensate for any visibility loss. Important reminder: There are numerous cases where modified dashcam installations causing visibility obstruction resulted in full liability in accidents – this must be taken seriously.