How to Install the Best Dash Cam in Your Car?
They can provide you with ample evidence to claim insurance in case of a car crash. Moreover, the footage can be used for legal proceedings regarding the accident. To make the most of best dash cam here is a complete guide of how to choose and install dash cams:
How to Choose the Best Dash Cam of Your Need?
There are many things to be taken into consideration before choosing the right sort of dash cam for your automobile. Firstly, it had to be on a budget, you can find a wide price range from which you can conveniently make a pick. Secondly, you must always buy tech gadgets like these from an authentic source to avoid any inconvenience.
Let’s have a look at the details of features that will make you pick the right one.
What Features to Look for While Buying a Dashcam?
Here is everything you need to know about the features of a dashcam that you must buy:
Power Source of the Dashcam:
- Some dashcams can be directly wired to the car battery but that will need some professional to do the installation. Whereas, some dashcams can be powered by the cigarette lighter socket of your car. The best option is to get the one that is battery powered.
The View:
- The dashcam must cover a wide view. You can get cameras as wide as 170 degrees that will not just cover the front view, but it will also focus on the sides.
Picture Quality:
- The picture quality has to be great so that the purpose of having a dashcam can be fulfilled aptly. Look at the reviews of the camera to know how they capture night and day footage.
Built-In GPS and Screens:
- Having built-in GPS enables you to pin your location and record your traveling footage more accurately. It can also offer you turn by turn guide to your destination. Moreover, there are some cameras that have a screen attached to them and you can look at the footage that is being recorded simultaneously. What else could be better?
Built-In Wi-Fi:
- Having an in-built Wi-fi will ease your process of getting the footage. Instead of removing the SD card and copying it to our laptop, you can directly connect your camera with the phone via the application and get all the data.
All of these features are must-haves for the choice of a dashcam.
Why Is There A Need to Install a Dashcam in Your Car?
This is the real question of all. You might be thinking that dashcams are just a luxury or a waste of money, but believe it or not, they are lifesavers, and here is why you need to install one in your car:
Security:
- dashcams work as wireless security cameras. They keep your vehicle safe as the intruders will be aware of the fact that it has a camera installed in int. Even if gets stolen, you can check the footage via phone.
Providing Evidence:
- Dashcams can save you from being falsified in case if car accidents. Its footage can provide ample evidence in your favor and the one at fault can be punished.
Getting Rid of Wrongly Issued Tickets:
- Although the law enforcement system has advanced over the years there is always the possibility of traffic camera malfunctioning and issuance of the wrong ticket. If you have a dashcam installed in your car, you easily get rid of the situation.
How to Do A Price Survey of Dash Cams Before Buying One?
Prices of dashcams vary from feature to feature. the better the quality of the gadget, the higher will be its price. You can shortlist the features that you want your dashcam to have and begin your search accordingly. Buying a good quality dashcam is likely to invest in your safety and is insurance for your vehicle. Therefore, you must make sure to prioritize quality over the price.
Where Should You Consider Placing the Dashcam In A Car?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to dashcams. Logically, people would say that dashcams are supposed to be mounted on the dashboard. On the contrary to the popular belief, the best position to place the dashcam is to place them in the middle of the windshield, a few inches down the headliner. Or you can simply place it behind the rear mirror as well. Placing it on the dashboard can really be distracting.
How do you attach a dashcam to a windshield?
Many dash cams attach to a windshield with a suction cup mount. This type of mount generally has a lever that you can push down to release the suction cup, making it easy to remove the dashcam when you need to. Some dash cams also come with a sticky adhesive pad instead of a suction cup, which can be a better option for certain windshields.
What are the essential steps to install the dashcam in your car?
1. Find the appropriate place for dashcam installation
The first step is to identify the spot in your car where you will install the dashcam. It is best to place it in a spot that has a clear view of the road. You should also consider the height of the camera so that it can capture all the action
2. Remove the windshield
Once you have identified the spot, you need to remove the windshield. You will have to remove the rear-view mirror first if it is attached to the windshield. It is also advisable not to use a power drill since you might end up damaging the windshield or cause injury. As soon as you have removed the windshield, you can now install your dashcam.
3. Choose the installation method
There are several ways to install it; you can make use of adhesive tape, brackets, or suction cups to attach it in its position. You can also find a custom-fit dashcam holder for your car if the other options do not work for you at all. The good thing about using a custom-fit dashboard camera holder is that it will prevent the camera from vibrating or moving around.
Installation with a Cigarette Lighter Adapter (CLA)
Dashboard cameras come in different sizes so there is no one-size solution for all. The C shape of the CLA makes it possible to adjust it to fit cars, motorcycles, or trucks. It can be used for any vehicle due to its flexibility and size.
OBD Cable Installation
This is a 12-inch camera that can be attached to the windshield. It has a 360-degree rotating feature that will enable you to capture all the action around your car. The camera records in full HD and can take still pictures as well.
Installation with a Suction Cup
If you are using a suction cup, it is important to make sure that the surface is clean and free of any dust or debris. You can also use a gel pad to improve the grip. Before attaching the camera, make sure that the lever is in the locked position.
Installation with an adhesive tape
The adhesive tape should be strong enough to ensure a firm grip so it will not fall off easily. Also, you should check if the adhesive can withstand extreme temperatures such as hot and cold climates.
Installation with a Battery Pack
Dashcams with a battery pack have high power consumption so you need to be sure that the battery has sufficient power to last for at least 10 hours. You can also choose a dashcam with a capacitor, which is better than a standard car battery as it will deliver a more stable voltage.
If you do not like the idea of having a dashcam in your car, you can simply detach it. You should know that you will void the warranty if you end up damaging the camera while trying to remove it from its position. It is also best to take care and be gentle when removing the device since this may cause injury.
If all else fails, you can always take your car to a professional to have the dashcam installed for you. This is definitely the easiest option, but it will also be the most expensive.
How do you hide the wires on a dashcam?
The wires on your dashcam can be helpful for keeping things tidy, but you may want to hide them if the wiring looks unsightly. There are many different ways to hide the wires on a dashcam. You can conceal them by attaching them under trim pieces or behind interior door panels using zip ties, or you can run them through existing grommets or openings. You can also hide them by hiding the wires under seat-mounted side panels if they are out of sight when you close your doors.
How long does it take to install a dashcam?
A basic dashcam installation normally takes around 5 minutes, while a more complicated install may take 8-10. It can help to have a magnetic screwdriver for this type of installation.
What Measures to Take for Maintenance of Your Dashcam?
Once you are done with the installation and choosing the right placement, maintenance has to be your next concern. Follow these basic steps to take apt care of your dashcam:
1. Basic Check:
Just like any other part of your car, the dashcam should be checked regularly. Check its GPS, its placements, etc. on a regular basis to make sure that it is plugged in and is functional.
2. See the Footage:
Seeing your dashcams footage regularly is the best option of all. You can ensure its right placement and work by just reviewing the footage every now and then.
3. Format the Memory Card:
Plug the memory card every month into your computer and format it. Formatting prevents the overwriting of the data, makes room for more footage, and also erases the errors. Regular formatting is a crucial part of maintenance.
Take care of your dashcam and it will look after you!
What Are the Ultimate Benefits of Using the Best Dashcam?
Dashcams are literary life-saving devices. They can:
- They are easy to use and install
- Keep your vehicle safe
- Gives you ample evidence to prove your innocence in case of car accidents
- Saves you from wrong tickets or damage charges
- Increases your safety
What You Must Know About Legal Considerations of Using a Dashcam?
Dashcams do have some legal constraints and they vary from country to country and if you are unaware of them, you can get into some serious trouble. If it’s your company car or a taxi, then the passengers or the other person must be informed that there is a camera in the car. However, if your state or country allows the use of dashcams, then you can also use its footage for legal proceedings in case of any unfortunate incident. Make sure to check about the legality of the use of dashcams if you are traveling abroad.
Conclusion:
Dashcams are highly beneficial gadgets. Their ease of use, maintenance, and amazing advantages are increasing its popularity worldwide. They protect you from falling prey to false accusations and ensure your and your vehicle’s safety as it makes it easier for you to claim the insurance. Choose the right kind of dashcam for your vehicle, if it complies with your country’s law, and stay protected!