How To Install A Dash Cam Correctly For A Clear View
If you’re wondering how to install a dash cam or determine whether it’s difficult to install a dash cam in a car, this article will help.
Dash cams have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their ability to provide evidence in the event of an accident or other incidents on the road.
These handy road traffic devices can also help businesses monitor driver behaviour and track routes. Some of the more expensive models also boast additional safety features such as collision detection and lane departure warnings.
Do you need to install a dash cam and why?
Dash cams are not mandatory in the UK. However, they are becoming increasingly popular due to the numerous benefits they provide. Here are some reasons why you might want to how to install a dash cam in a car:
- Dash cams provide evidence in the event of an accident
A dash cam can provide valuable video evidence in the event of an accident. The footage can exonerate you from blame by helping the police and the courts determine who was at fault. They can also potentially speed up the claims process with insurance companies.
- Protection against fraudulent claims
In some cases, drivers may make fraudulent claims against you, such as claiming you were at fault for an accident you didn’t cause. A dash cam can provide evidence to refute such claims.
Similarly, if you hire a car from a rental firm, a dash cam can provide peace of mind for drivers by protecting them against fraudulent claims. Rental firms have a notorious reputation for charging customers repair costs for the damage they didn’t cause so they can make a profit from the excess payment.
Car hire excess insurance is also a useful tool to protect you from unjustified financial loss when hiring a car from a rental firm.
- Monitoring driver behaviour
If you manage a fleet of vehicles or have employees who use your vehicle, a dash cam can help monitor driver behaviour, such as speeding or distracted driving, and provide feedback for improvement.
- Enhanced security
Some dash cams come with features such as parking mode, which can record video footage when the vehicle is parked, providing security against theft or vandalism.
- Safety features
Some dash cams have safety features such as lane departure warnings or collision detection, which can alert drivers to potential hazards on the road.
Typical safety features include:
Collision detection — built-in sensors that can detect a collision help provide valuable evidence in the event of an accident.
Lane departure warning — alerts drivers when they are drifting out of their lane, helping to prevent accidents caused by drowsiness or distraction.
Forward collision warning — detects when you are approaching another vehicle too quickly and provides an audible or visual warning to help prevent a collision.
Parking mode — detects motion or impact while the vehicle is parked and automatically starts recording. This can help provide evidence in the event of a hit-and-run or vandalism.
GPS tracking — built-in GPS tracking can record the location, speed, and direction of travel, providing valuable information in the event of an accident.
Night vision — night vision capabilities use infrared or other technology to improve visibility in low light conditions.
What is a dash cam?
A dash cam, short for a dashboard camera, is a small video camera mounted on the dashboard or windshield of a vehicle. It's designed to record video footage of the road ahead while you're driving. Some dash cams also have a rear-facing camera to record what's happening behind your vehicle.
Dash cams are typically powered by the vehicle's battery and start recording automatically when you turn on the ignition. The video footage is usually saved on a memory card and can be viewed on a computer or smartphone.
If you want to know how to install a dash cam, the best positioning is on the windshield or dashboard in a position that provides an unobstructed view of the road ahead.
Here are some tips for how to install a dash cam in a car:
How to install a dash cam in a car
The installation process for a dash cam can vary depending on the model and type of vehicle. It’s important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when installing a dash cam in a car. This ensures that the device is installed correctly and provides the best view of the road ahead.
With that said, the instructions below are general steps to follow when installing a dash cam in your vehicle.
- Choose an appropriate location
The first step is to choose a location for the dash cam. It should be placed in a position that doesn't obstruct your rearview mirror while driving and provides a good view of the road ahead. Most dash cams attach to the windshield using a suction cup or adhesive mount.
The best ways of installing a dash cam in a car are:
A high mount — for the best view of the road, mount the dash cam as high on the windshield as possible without obstructing your view of the road.
Centred and straight — position the dash cam in the centre of the windshield, directly behind the rearview mirror, and make sure it's level and straight.
Avoid obstructions — make sure there are no obstructions, such as windshield wipers or stickers, that could block the view of the camera.
Check for the glare — be aware of any glare or reflections on the windshield that could interfere with the camera's view.
Rear-facing camera — if your dash cam has a rear-facing camera, position it in the rear window of the vehicle, centred and straight, for the best view of the road behind you.
- Connect the power
Once you've chosen the location for the dash cam, you'll need to connect the power. Most dash cams come with a power cord that plugs into the cigarette lighter or USB port in your vehicle. Some models may require hardwiring to the car's electrical system, which should be done by a professional.
- Adjust the settings
Once the dash cam is installed and connected to power, you'll need to adjust the settings. This can include setting the time and date, adjusting the resolution and frame rate, and enabling any desired features such as parking mode or motion detection.
- Insert a memory card
Most dash cams record video onto a memory card. Make sure to insert a memory card that's compatible with your dash cam and has enough storage capacity for your needs.
- Mount the dash cam
Finally, attach the dash cam to the mount and adjust the angle as needed. Make sure it's securely attached and doesn't vibrate or move while driving. Also, don’t attach the mount where it can interfere with your rearview mirror.
It's important to read the manufacturer's instructions and follow them carefully when installing your dash cam. If you're not comfortable with how to install a dash cam, consider having it done by a professional.
How much does a dash cam cost in the UK?
The cost of a dash cam in the UK will vary depending on the brand, features, and quality. Generally, you can find a basic dash cam for as low as £30 to £50, while more advanced models can cost over £200.
The average cost of dash cams in the UK is £90. However, Top Gear has compiled a list of high-quality devices that are less than the average price.
It is worth noting that the cheapest dash cams usually have lower video quality and fewer features. They usually have a smaller screen and less storage capacity.
On the other hand, dash cams at the expensive end of the scale should be expected to have high-quality video, larger screens, GPS tracking, and additional features such as collision detection and lane departure warning systems.
If you're looking for a dash cam, it's important to consider your needs and budget. A mid-range dash cam with good video quality and features can typically be found for around £100 to £150.
However, it's important to note that price is not always an indicator of quality, so make sure to read reviews and compare different models before making a purchase.
Bettersafe Car Hire Excess Insurance
We trust you find the above instruction about how to install a dash cam, how to install a dash cam in a car and how much dash cams cost useful.
But despite all the benefits of installing a dash cam, UK drivers are still susceptible to financial loss — particularly if you are renting a car. The only way to avoid financial loss on a car rental is with our car hire excess insurance.
Paying for a damaged vehicle can become costly very quickly if you’re in an accident or put a dent in the bodywork. Some car rental companies have a habit of charging drivers for damage to a car that was caused by a previous driver.
For more information about our car hire excess policies contact a member of our friendly team on +44 (0) 20 3740 4431 or send an email to enquiries@bettersafe.com.