Most Common Mistakes People Make When Placing Their Dashcam
A dashcam is a great tool for recording your driving experiences and protecting yourself in case of accidents. However, its effectiveness depends on where and how you place it. A poorly mounted dashcam can block your view, capture the wrong angles, or even violate local laws.
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when installing your dashcam.
Placing It Too Low
Mounting the dashcam too low might seem like a good idea for hiding it, but it can obstruct your view or reduce the camera’s field of vision. You might miss important details, like another car swerving into your lane.
Pro Tip:
Mount your dashcam just below the rearview mirror. This ensures a clear view of the road while keeping the camera discreet and unobtrusive.
Blocking Airbags and Sensors
Modern cars often have sensors or airbags near the windshield or rearview mirror. Placing your dashcam where it blocks these features can interfere with their functionality in an emergency.
Pro Tip:
Check your car’s manual to locate airbags and sensors, then ensure your dashcam doesn’t obstruct them.
Ignoring Windshield Laws
In some areas, windshield laws restrict what can be mounted on your windshield. If your dashcam is too large or blocks too much of your view, you might end up with a ticket.
Pro Tip:
Before installing your dashcam, check local laws regarding windshield obstructions. Ensure it doesn’t violate any regulations about visibility or size.
Forgetting to Adjust the Angle
It’s easy to assume your dashcam is in the perfect spot after mounting it. However, without checking the footage, you might miss key events or capture irrelevant details.
Pro Tip:
After installation, take a short drive and review the footage. Adjust the angle to make sure it captures both the road ahead and important areas around you.
Using Cheap or Improvised Mounts
Using cheap or makeshift mounts might save a few bucks but can lead to your dashcam falling or shifting during your drive. This could result in shaky footage or no footage at all.
Pro Tip:
Stick to the mounting equipment provided with your dashcam or invest in high-quality third-party mounts that are specifically designed for your model.
Not Cleaning the Windshield First
A dirty windshield can impair the clarity of your dashcam footage, leading to blurry or obstructed video. This can make it harder to identify important details if you need the footage later.
Pro Tip:
Clean the windshield thoroughly before mounting your dashcam. Use a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to remove any dirt or grease.
Not Considering the Power Cable
Many forget to plan the route for the power cable, which can end up hanging awkwardly or not reaching the power outlet. A loose or short cable might cause the dashcam to lose power mid-drive.
Pro Tip:
Route the power cable neatly along the windshield edges or beneath the trim. If you want a cleaner look, consider using a hardwiring kit to keep the dashcam powered without visible cords.
Wrapping It Up
The position of your dashcam can make a big difference in the quality and usefulness of the footage. Avoid these common mistakes — like placing it too low, blocking airbags, or not considering local laws — to ensure your dashcam is ready when you need it most.
With the right placement, your dashcam will provide clear, reliable footage, giving you peace of mind on the road.
