Where is the best place to wire the dash cam?
2 Answers
It is better to wire the dash cam to the ACC fuse. Below are several options for dash cam wiring locations: 1. Cigarette lighter wiring: This is the simplest method, just plug it directly into the cigarette lighter. After power is obtained, route the wires through areas like the glove box or A-pillar. This method occupies the cigarette lighter, and the wiring in the glove box area cannot be hidden. 2. Direct battery wiring: This requires running wires from the cabin into the engine compartment and connecting directly to the positive and negative terminals of the battery. This method does not allow manual power-off, or manual power-off is very inconvenient. 3. ACC power supply: There is usually a secondary fuse box below the steering wheel on the driver's side. Find the ACC fuse and insert the "fuse tap" directly into the ACC fuse. Refer to the user manual to determine the ACC fuse number. After obtaining power this way, it does not affect the vehicle's original power supply. When the vehicle's power is on, the dash cam starts receiving power. This method also requires using the A-pillar to hide exposed wires.
I have ten years of driving experience and believe that the best place to wire a dashcam is to the fuse box because it's the safest and most reliable option. The fuse box is located under the steering wheel, allowing the wires to be neatly tucked away without being exposed, which maintains aesthetics and prevents accidental pulling or disconnection. This is far better than using the cigarette lighter, which can become loose with frequent plugging and unplugging, and over time, the circuit may age and cause a short circuit. When I installed mine, I first used a multimeter to check the voltage to ensure it matched the dashcam's requirements—usually, the ACC position is ideal, as it only powers the dashcam when the ignition is on, preventing constant battery drain. By the way, beginners shouldn’t cut corners—remember to turn off the power before working to avoid electric shock. If your car is a newer SUV, the fuse box layout is often closer to the battery, making it even more convenient and reducing the risk of battery drain. It’s both practical and reliable.
