DIY Dash Cam Install: 2 Easy At-Home Methods

Installing a dash cam yourself is a straightforward weekend project that typically takes 30–60 minutes. You can choose between two main methods: the Plug-and-Play method (easiest, using the cigarette lighter) or the Hardwire method (cleanest, enabling parking mode).

What You Need

• Dash cam + power cable
• Trim removal tool
• MicroSD card
• 12V fuse tap (optional for hardwiring)
• Zip ties or cable clips

Method 1: The Easy Way (Cigarette Lighter / USB Plug-In)

Best for beginners. No electrical work, no risk.

Step 1: Mount the Camera

1. Peel the adhesive tape (or use the suction cup).
2. Press the mount onto the windshield for 30 seconds to secure it.
3. Place it behind the rear-view mirror so it doesn’t block your view.
   

Step 2: Test the Power

1. Plug the dash cam cable into the camera.
2. Plug the other end into your car’s 12V power outlet or USB port.
3. Make sure the dash cam turns on; this confirms everything works.
   

Step 3: Hide the Wires (The Easy “Tuck” Method)

A. Headliner (Roof Area)

• Push the cable into the small gap between the windshield and the roof liner.
• It will stay in place just by friction.

B. A-Pillar Area (Side of the Windshield)

• Run the wire down the passenger side.
• Use a trim tool to gently lift the A-pillar cover and tuck the cable inside.
• Keep the wire away from the airbag path inside the A-pillar.

C. Door Frame

• Pull the rubber weather seal slightly outward.
• Push the wire inside the gap.
• Press the rubber seal back into place.

D. Under the Dashboard

• Run the wire under the glove box toward the center console.
• Use zip ties or adhesive clips to keep it neat and secure.

Step 4: Final Plug-In

• Plug the cable into the cigarette lighter or USB port.
• The camera will now turn on every time you start the car.

Method 2: The Pro Way (Hardwiring for a Clean Look + Parking Mode)

Best for people who want hidden wires and 24/7 recording.

Step 1: Find the Fuse Box

• Most cars have it under the steering wheel or behind the glove box.
• Check your car’s manual to confirm the exact location.

Step 2: Identify the Right Fuses

You need two power sources:

1. ACC Fuse (Accessory Power)

• Turns on only when the car is ON.
• Good examples: Radio, Cigarette lighter.

2. Constant/Battery Fuse

• Always ON, even when the car is OFF.
• Good examples: Interior lights, Horn.

❗ Avoid these:

• Airbag fuse
• ABS fuse
• ECU or any critical system fuse

Step 3: Connect the Fuse Taps

Your hardwire kit has 3 wires: Red, Yellow, Black (colors may vary).

A. ACC Connection (Red Wire)

1. Crimp the red wire to a fuse tap.
2. Insert the fuse tap into the ACC fuse slot.

B. Constant Power (Yellow Wire)

1. Crimp the yellow wire to the second fuse tap.
2. Insert it into the Constant/Battery fuse slot.

Always check your kit’s manual for color differences.

Step 4: Ground the Black Wire

1. Find an unpainted metal bolt near the fuse box.
2. Loosen it.
3. Slide the black wire’s metal fork underneath.
4. Tighten the bolt again.

This completes the circuit.

Step 5: Test the Setup

Adjust camera angle and settings.

Turn the car ON — the dash cam should start.

Turn the car OFF — the dash cam should switch to Parking Mode.