How do I hardwire a dash cam safely in a UK car fuse box?
Hardwiring means connecting the dash cam to your car’s fuse box using a dedicated hardwire kit instead of the 12V socket.
General safe approach:
- Use a hardwire kit designed for your dash cam (typically includes an inline fuse, add-a-fuse adaptor, and ground wire).
- Locate the interior fuse box (often near the driver’s side, passenger side, or under the glovebox). Check your car manual for the exact location.
- Identify an ignition-switched fuse (ACC/IGN), such as radio or accessory, which only has power when the ignition is on.
Using an add-a-fuse adaptor:
- Remove the original fuse from the chosen slot.
- Insert that fuse into the lower slot of the add-a-fuse adaptor.
- Add the new fuse for the dash cam (usually 2–5A) into the upper slot.
- Insert the adaptor into the original fuse location.
Connect the ground wire to a solid metal point or designated earth stud. Route the cable neatly along the headliner and A-pillar, avoiding airbag areas.
Test the camera: it should only power on with the ignition if you used an ignition-switched fuse.
If you’re not confident working with vehicle electrics, many UK drivers choose professional installation.
Where is the best place on the windscreen to mount a dash cam without blocking my view?
UK guidance states that items should not significantly obstruct the driver’s view and should not project more than around 40 mm into the wiper-swept area.
- Mount the dash cam high on the windscreen, behind or just to the passenger side of the rear-view mirror.
- Keep it outside your direct line of sight while maintaining a clear field of view for the lens.
- Avoid mounting low in the centre of the windscreen or directly in front of the driver.
- Check visibility from your normal driving position to ensure the camera is barely noticeable.
How should I route the rear camera cable through car trim panels?
Rear camera cables typically run from the front unit to the rear window along the interior trim.
- Mount the rear camera at the top centre of the rear window.
- Tuck the cable into the headliner along one side of the car.
- For hatchbacks or estates, route the cable through the rubber boot between the body and tailgate.
- Continue along the roof edge and down the C- and B-pillars, following existing trim.
Tips:
- Use plastic trim tools, not metal.
- Avoid routing cables across airbag covers.
- Leave slight slack near both cameras for adjustment.
Which fuse types should I use with a dash cam hardwire kit in the UK?
Most UK vehicles use standard blade, mini blade, or micro blade fuses.
- Match the add-a-fuse adaptor to the fuse size in your vehicle.
- Use an ignition-switched circuit (such as accessory or radio).
- Avoid safety-critical circuits like airbags, ABS, or engine management.
- Place the original vehicle fuse in the lower slot and the dash cam fuse (2–5A) in the upper slot.
How do I test dash cam power and settings after installation?
Ignition test:
- Turn the ignition on — the dash cam should power up automatically.
- Turn the ignition off — the camera should shut down unless parking mode is enabled.
Recording test:
- Record a short clip and play it back.
- Check clarity and camera angles.
Other checks:
- Confirm date and time settings.
- Ensure the memory card is recognised and formatted in-camera.
- If using parking mode, test that event recording works correctly.
- Turn the steering wheel and operate pedals to ensure cables are clear.
If anything behaves unexpectedly, adjust fuse selection or power settings before relying on the dash cam.