When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
I got a dash cam for Christmas and it works great on the windshield right above the dash compartment. However, the power cable plugs in to the left side and I have to drape the cord over it and plug into the 12V outlet on the right side of the console. The 12V outlet on the left side is used up with my TPMS monitor and my permanent cell phone for Torque Pro. What I would like to do is plug into the 12V inside the dash compartment. But, when I run the cord though the space between the dash and the compartment door it binds up and closes too tight. I assume that over time this may warp the door. So finally my question, has anyone carved out a little spot for the cord to fit between the door and maybe the center speaker on the dash so the door closes easy? That is what I'm thinking I'll do I just thought I would ask before I start cutting on my compartment door.
Cutting a notch is not going to hurt anything. Why ford didn't put a couple there to begin with is beyond me. I usually just shut it on the phone cable myself, but I dont charge in the the truck that often either. Maybe dill a hole and dress it up with a grommet?
I agree I don't know why they didn't do something so we can run a cord out of that compartment. I may use my Dremel cutting bit that is about the same size as the cord to make a notch on the edge of the door. It would have also been nice if one of the the 2 usb ports was just for power and not connected to the computer.
I may run to Lowe's later and see what kind of rubber grommets they have. That would give it a more finished look. Plus I wouldn't have to worry about the wire being lined up with the notch every time I open and close the lid.
I mounted mine behind the mirror and tucked the cord behind the headliner and down the passenger column and hooked it up to an unused fuse in the fuse panel by the passenger foot well.
The only wires you see are the last 2-3" right at the camera.
I do have to move the mirror to see what is on the Dashcam screen. But mostly I never look at it except once a month when I reformat the card or if I ever had to pull the card out to show a cop or insurance company what happened. Which I haven't had to do yet.
I mounted mine behind the mirror and tucked the cord behind the headliner and down the passenger column and hooked it up to an unused fuse in the fuse panel by the passenger foot well.
The only wires you see are the last 2-3" right at the camera.
I do have to move the mirror to see what is on the Dashcam screen. But mostly I never look at it except once a month when I reformat the card or if I ever had to pull the card out to show a cop or insurance company what happened. Which I haven't had to do yet.
That makes me wonder why they can't just put a usb outlet on the back of the rearview mirror. That would make all this much easier.
You can use the Power Magic Pro from Blackvue as a safe power source, check it out for more details if you are planning on hardwiring the Dash cam. Sidenote: you want the Dash Cam located as close to the windshield as possible.
Well I decided not to cut up my dash. I ordered a cable with a 90 degree connector and just close the dash compartment on it. It is a little tight but it is an easy fix.
I put mine behind the mirror and ran the cable behind the headliner and down the "A" column then to a up lifter. Don't put the thing where its going to obstruct your view.
Use a adhesive to place the camera on the glass. Suction cups do work long term.
Well I decided not to cut up my dash. I ordered a cable with a 90 degree connector and just close the dash compartment on it. It is a little tight but it is an easy fix.
Thanks exactly what I did. Looks ok and functions. Just wish they put at least one ignition powered 12vt socket.
I decided I didn't want anything permanent. I can grab it and go if I am using a different vehicle. Also, it is nice to be able to be able to put it out of sight when needed. I didn't want any cables visible when the camera is out of the truck.