davezp15

Im trying to install an dash cam into my 2010 Lexus ES350. In my other cars which I've ran the dash cams they had more power ports. I heard that there was car power going into the rearview mirror to light up the compass. Does anyone know if its possible to power a dash cam from there? Or should i run it to the car battery

swfla

iTrader: (1)

Check the fuse size powering the mirror first. As long as you stay below the total rating, you should be OK. Good luck.

GCL

iTrader: (1)

There are a lot of items running power up there on the roof. Rearview mirror, home link, sunroof, lights. The sunroof has the highest amp rating, but I don't think your dashcam will draw much. So you can likely tap into whichever suits you (12v battery or 12v ignition).

Do you want 12v ignition only? Then the rear view mirror tap will work. Search for the previous DIY post to add LEDs to overhead light switches. It will show you how to easily drop the overhead console. Then tap into the wiring harness. The rear view mirror wires are black (12 ign) and white with black stripe (gnd). The post also mentions an alternate tap (green wire. iir)

xanderES

iTrader: (8)

Id run it from the battery if you're using your dash cam with a motion detector setting when the cars off. If you go this way you'll also need a battery discharge preventor.

Otherwise you can tap the rear view. There are kits made directly for it with in-line fuses to be extra careful.

What you can also do is tap the fuses under the steering wheel/kick panel and run it up.

If you have not already purchased a dash cam
https://dashcamtalk.com/ is your best resource.

GCL

iTrader: (1)

If you do decide to run a wire from the lower dash area up the A-pillar, then be sure that you don't cross over the curtain air bag.

Run the wire along the front edge of the A-pillar by the windshield (that is were the factory runs their wires). Then run it under the headliner, again by the windshield towards the center console. You don't need to take off the headliner or A-pillar panel, just use a ruler to push the wire between the panel and windshield.

swfla

iTrader: (1)

I just found out that most dash cams DON'T run on 12v, the cig. plug lowers the voltage to a safe voltage. If you cut the plug off and run straight 12v you'll fry the cam. Good luck.

swfla

iTrader: (1)

Your post inspired me. I discovered several dash cam android apps for my Galaxy S3. I'm up and running for about $15 dollars with a windshield mount and detachable wide angle lens. Using a phone is not as convenient as a permanently mounted, dedicated unit but it's an inexpensive and quick way to get up and running.

xanderES

iTrader: (8)

I'm pretty sure that the cars outlet does not have a regulator. Instead the regulator is on the male side plug of the adapter which plugs into the camera.

That sounded all sorts of bad. Hope you had a warranty on that cam.
Always refer to the user manual first to make sure your specific dash cam is compatible.

unklexus

I've had a Mini 803 for over a year, no issues, nice, small and tucked up high out of the way. I bought a fuse box adapter that you plug into a fuse socket then plug the original fuse into it. Then ran that to an extra wired lighter socket .

Plugged the camera into the socket and just ran the camera wire around the edges of the dash, most of the wire is hidden. The plug and socket were easily hidden behind the drivers kick panel. The fuse box cover is retired to the center console since it won't fit any more, but I can't see it so doesn't matter.

Dashcams highly recommended, I'll never drive another vehicle without one. It's kind of like a having, or not having, insurance feeling. Probably will get a front/rear one in the future.

kalieaire

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Waterproof-DC-Converter-Module-12V-5V-3A-Double-One-USB-Port-Car-Power-Adapter-/331362712293?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&var=&hash=item4d26c1bae5
Mount one of these in your headliner. Run a single 12v from your fusebox to the unit and ground the 12v converter module to your roof somewhere. Now you can run a single USB cable to your Dashcam.

If you live in a metropolitan area with a lot of high rises, you can install DUAL AV XGPS160 and mount it on your back or front window and use the second USB lead to charge it.

swfla

iTrader: (1)

Excellent find! USB is the correct voltage.