The Beginner's Guide to Installing a Dashcam: Tips for Choosing, Mounting, and Using Your Camera

A dashcam is a small camera that is installed in a vehicle to record video footage of the road ahead. Installing a dashcam can be a great way to protect yourself in case of an accident, document any incidents on the road, and potentially even lower your insurance premiums. If you're a beginner looking to install a dashcam in your car, here's a guide to get you started:


  • Choose the right dashcam.
  • There are a lot of dashcams on the market, so it's important to choose one that fits your needs and budget. Look for a dashcam with good video quality, a wide viewing angle, and features like loop recording and GPS tracking.


  • Find the right location.
  • The most common location to install a dashcam is on the windshield, behind the rearview mirror. This location provides the best viewing angle and minimizes distractions while driving. Make sure to choose a spot where the dashcam won't obstruct your view of the road.


  • Mount the dashcam. 
  • Most dashcams come with a mounting bracket that attaches to the windshield. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to securely attach the bracket and mount the dashcam in the desired location. Make sure the dashcam is level and facing straight ahead..


  • Connect the power.
  • Dashcams usually come with a power cable that plugs into the cigarette lighter or USB port in your car. If you want to hardwire the dashcam, you'll need to purchase a separate hardwire kit and connect it to a fuse in your car's fuse box.


  • Adjust the settings.
  • Once your dashcam is installed and powered on, you can adjust the settings to your liking. This might include adjusting the video resolution, setting the date and time, or enabling features like motion detection or parking mode.


  • Test it out.
  • Before hitting the road, make sure to test out your dashcam to ensure it's working properly. Record a short video and check the playback to make sure the video quality is good and the camera is positioned correctly.


    Overall, installing a dashcam is a relatively simple process that can provide a lot of benefits for drivers. By choosing the right dashcam, finding the right location, mounting it securely, connecting the power, adjusting the settings, and testing it out, you can have a reliable and useful tool to help protect you on the road.