As dash cams continue to gain popularity, more and more car owners are considering installing one in their vehicles. A dash cam is not only a great way to capture footage of your road trips or daily commutes, but it can also serve as valuable evidence in case of accidents or other incidents. Where to mount dash cam? However, choosing the right location to mount your dash cam is crucial to ensure optimal video recording quality and protection. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore everything you need to know about where to mount your dash cam on the windshield.
Understanding Dash Cam Placement –
The Importance of Dash Cam Placement
Mounting the Front Dash Cam
The front dash cam is the primary camera that captures the road ahead. To ensure an even field of view and minimize distractions, it is recommended to mount the dash cam in or near the center of the front windshield. Most dash cams have limited horizontal adjustability, so finding the right position is crucial. We suggest placing the dash cam near the rearview mirror area, slightly tilted upwards to capture about 60% of the road and 40% of the sky. This positioning offers a good balance of exposure and clarity, capturing important details such as road signs and license plates.
Installing the Rear Dash Cam
If your dash cam includes a rear camera, it is typically mounted on the rear windshield to capture footage behind your vehicle. The ideal placement for the rear dash cam is in the uppermost center of the rear windshield. However, it’s important to avoid mounting it on the rear defroster grid lines, as this can interfere with the camera’s view. By positioning the rear dash cam correctly, you can capture any incidents or activities happening behind your vehicle.
Considering Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
Many modern vehicles are equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which include sensors and radar detectors near the stem of the rearview mirror. These sensors are crucial for features like collision detection and lane departure warning. When installing a dash cam, it is important to ensure that it does not interfere with the functionality of these ADAS sensors. By adjusting the position of the dash cam on the windshield, you can avoid any potential interference with the ADAS system.
Ensuring a Secure Mount
Using Adhesive Mounts
Most dash cams come with adhesive mounts for easy installation on the windshield. Before attaching the adhesive mount, it is essential to clean the windshield thoroughly with a window cleaner to ensure a strong bond. Make sure the windshield is dry and at room temperature before applying the adhesive. Press the mount firmly against the glass for about 10 seconds to ensure a secure attachment. Adhesive mounts work best on glass surfaces, so avoid mounting on other materials such as plastic or leather, as they may result in a weak and insecure hold.
Suction Cup Mounts
Some dash cams come with suction cup mounts, which offer flexibility in repositioning the camera. Suction cup mounts are suitable for glass surfaces and can be easily attached and detached as needed. It is important to note that suction cup mounts may result in some vibrations, which can affect the stability of the footage. To ensure a secure mount with a suction cup, make sure the windshield is clean and dry before attaching the mount. Press the suction cup firmly against the glass and test its stability before hitting the road.
Adjusting the Camera Angle
Using Dash Cams with Screens
If your dash cam has a built-in screen, you can easily adjust the camera angle by turning on the device and checking the live view of the footage. Ensure that all lanes are being captured and that the camera angle provides a clear view of the road ahead. If you are satisfied with the angle, you are in the right spot. Some dash cams even offer mounting lines on the screen to assist with getting the correct viewing angle.
Dash Cams with Wi-Fi and Smartphone Apps
Dash cams with Wi-Fi connectivity and smartphone apps allow you to view live footage from your phone while mounting the dash cam. This feature enables you to choose the position and angle that best suits your needs in real-time. By utilizing the live view feature, you can adjust the dash cam’s position and ensure that it captures the desired field of view before finalizing the installation.
Addressing Common Concerns
Interference with Vehicle Sensors
One common concern when installing a dash cam is whether it will interfere with the vehicle’s sensors, particularly in cars equipped with advanced driver assistance systems. The good news is that dash cams do not typically interfere with these sensors, as they are mounted against the windshield and pointed outwards. However, if you have any concerns, you can adjust the position of the dash cam to a different area on the windshield to ensure that everything functions normally.
Dealing with Windshield Black Dots
Windshields often have black dots, known as a “dot matrix” or frit, which assist with the seal and block the sun in certain areas. These black dots can be present on the windshield surface where you intend to mount the dash cam. The good news is that these dots do not interfere with the dash cam’s view. In fact, they can be used to hide the bulk of the dash cam, reducing its visibility from the outside. As long as the lens of the dash cam sticks past the dot matrix, there should be no issues with the camera’s functionality.
Removing Residue from the Windshield
If you plan to switch dash cams in the future or remove the dash cam temporarily, you may encounter sticky residue on the windshield. To prevent this, you can apply a screen protector or static-cling film to the windshield before attaching the dash cam. These protective layers act as a barrier between the 3M sticky tape and the glass, preventing any sticky residue or marks when removing the dash cam. Alternatively, you can use cleaning products such as Windex, rubbing alcohol, or Goo Gone to remove any residue left on the windshield.
Conclusion – Where To Mount Dash Cam
Choosing the right location to mount your dash cam is crucial for optimal video recording quality and protection. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your dash cam captures the desired field of view without obstructing your vision or interfering with your vehicle’s sensors. Whether you opt for an adhesive mount or a suction cup mount, make sure to clean the windshield thoroughly and apply the mount securely. Adjust the camera angle to capture the road ahead and utilize features such as built-in screens or smartphone apps for real-time adjustments. With proper installation and placement, your dash cam will provide you with valuable footage and peace of mind on the road.
Doreen