Installing a Dash Cam

[wizzywig27]

I have a NextGen Dash Cam from my old car. I normally get Halfrauds to fit them for me, but not sure I trust them on my A3.

Can I trust them, in the sense of are they hard to hardwire to fuse box on an A3?

 

[Adam14]

I don't trust Halfrauds as far as I can throw them. I'd get a reputable mechanic or equivalent to fit them.

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[wizzywig27]

I don't trust Halfrauds as far as I can throw them. I'd get a reputable mechanic or equivalent to fit them.

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To be fair they installed it on on Polo GTI and Polo SE with no problems.

 

[Adam14]

I've just had numerous bad experiences with em, so would never trust them with this (my local struggled to replace headlights properly on my old fiesta). I'd take it to my local independent and he'd do it properly

To be fair they installed it on on Polo GTI and Polo SE with no problems.

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[Matt Titanium]

Don't trust them. It's a dead easy job to fit one yourself. Paying someone is money for old rope.

 

[DJAlix]

Don't trust them. It's a dead easy job to fit one yourself. Paying someone is money for old rope.

If you have some technical ability and decent tools maybe however... Declaring the cam to your insurance? Most will require that the unit has been professionally fitted / hardwired. Professional installers will make sure the cam is both earthed and fused correctly and not just use the bolt next too the side of the dashboard. Dual channel installation? A professional will route all cabling behind all airbags and through all rubber grommets. We also have a vast array of tools that allow us to complete the job safely and with zero damage to your vehicle, not to mention insurance should anything indeed be damaged and a warranty should any part of the installation fail.

Examples Halfords installation of a Blackvue dual channel system within an Audi A1:



Example of how it should be done (Audi S1):

 

[Boydie]

Just reminds me I need to hard wire mine in my S3!

 

[Carefree69]

Do it yourself, it’s so easy.

I’d rather take my car to a local zoo and let the monkeys have a go than let them do it.

I wouldn’t trust Halfrauds with my nephews Tommee Tippee toy car let alone anything else.

 

[Flying Scotsman]

DJAlix shows how it should be done....that is a professional installation with care and consideration to wiring looms with no hazardous rubbing of electrical wiring and proper electrical connections........You get what you pay for and yes someone with good electrical and car wiring knowledge can do it and has the tools to open plastic covers etc., but that is not your average individual.

 

[Carefree69]

I’m an average individual and I’ve installed dash cams on both my current and previous cars, both hard wired without any damage to trim and both worked/work faultlessly.

It is easy.

 

[wizzywig27]

Only easy if you know how. I don’t know how, that’s the problem

 

[oli356]

Anything is easy if you know how ..

Ask me to design and test an enterprise networks for the largest companies in the world.. OK fine.

Ask me to install a dash cam, wouldn't have a clue lol.

 

[Carefree69]

I didn’t know how until I watched one or two “how too’s” on YouTube.

And then I did know.

 

[Matt Titanium]

If you have some technical ability and decent tools maybe however... Declaring the cam to your insurance? Most will require that the unit has been professionally fitted / hardwired. Professional installers will make sure the cam is both earthed and fused correctly and not just use the bolt next too the side of the dashboard. Dual channel installation? A professional will route all cabling behind all airbags and through all rubber grommets. We also have a vast array of tools that allow us to complete the job safely and with zero damage to your vehicle, not to mention insurance should anything indeed be damaged and a warranty should any part of the installation fail.

Tho OP was asking about Halfrauds which I would say is fairly typical of a lot of dash cam installer's work and your pictures of it. I agree, a world away from a neat professional job.
However, you don't need a vast array of specialist tools and everything is easily accessible. It's up to you how neat you route the cables, ty-rap excess and mount the psu. It's a wire to a fuse and a connection to earth, not a difficult job.
My insurance company didn't ask who installed it.

 

[Carefree69]

Tho OP was asking about Halfrauds which I would say is fairly typical of a lot of dash cam installer's work and your pictures of it. I agree, a world away from a neat professional job.
However, you don't need a vast array of specialist tools and everything is easily accessible. It's up to you how neat you route the cables, ty-rap excess and mount the psu. It's a wire to a fuse and a connection to earth, not a difficult job.
My insurance company didn't ask who installed it.

Yup. Wire it to a switched fuse and an Earth. Route the cable behind the trim and that’s it, no “professional’s” needed.

 

[Adam14]

You forget that some people would rather have a professional do it and know it's done properly, then watch a video and try and do it themselves. No point knocking them for it.

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[Matt Titanium]

You forget that some people would rather have a professional do it and know it's done properly, then watch a video and try and do it themselves. No point knocking them for it.

Or suggesting that if you pay someone to do it for you they will do it "properly" and make a better job of it than the average Joe could do themselves.
Are Halfrauds dashcam fitters professionals?
The OP asked if he could trust Halfauds do it [I would say no] and is it hard to hardwire to a fusebox in an A3 [no].

 

[Adam14]

Or suggesting that if you pay someone to do it for you they will do it "properly" and make a better job of it than the average Joe could do themselves.
Are Halfrauds dashcam fitters professionals?
The OP asked if he could trust Halfauds do it [I would say no] and is it hard to hardwire to a fusebox in an A3 [no].

Except in my earlier post I said I wouldn't trust Halfrauds. It's more than likely a professional would do it better, I think you're missing the point here. People pay for the peace of mind and knowing it's done properly, rather than attempting something they're not confident with. Nothing wrong with it.

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[Carefree69]

You forget that some people would rather have a professional do it and know it's done properly, then watch a video and try and do it themselves. No point knocking them for it.

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Who’s knocked anyone for getting a “professional” to do it?

I haven’t.

 

[Carefree69]

Or suggesting that if you pay someone to do it for you they will do it "properly" and make a better job of it than the average Joe could do themselves.
Are Halfrauds dashcam fitters professionals?
The OP asked if he could trust Halfauds do it [I would say no] and is it hard to hardwire to a fusebox in an A3 [no].

This thread is making a mountain out of a molehill.

OP, no I wouldn’t trust Halfords to fit a set of car mats let alone a dash cam.

And yes, it’s a piece of p!ss to fit one yourself.

Done.

 

[DJAlix]

Tho OP was asking about Halfrauds which I would say is fairly typical of a lot of dash cam installer's work and your pictures of it. I agree, a world away from a neat professional job.
However, you don't need a vast array of specialist tools and everything is easily accessible. It's up to you how neat you route the cables, ty-rap excess and mount the psu. It's a wire to a fuse and a connection to earth, not a difficult job.
My insurance company didn't ask who installed it.

Agree, stay away from Halfords for all but their Advanced range of tools which are actually very very good and carry a lifetime warranty.

Not all but insurance companies in general do ask for proof of both hardwire and professional installation else I would not have mentioned it. While almost every type of dashcam system available is indeed installable as a DIY I think you will find that you do need a good selection of tools in order to complete an installation without faffing about and the need to revisit "parts" of said install at a later date, especially if you are also installing as external battery unit. I myself use the following:

• A selection of nylon and metal trim tools
• Snake cable and rods
• Torch
• Ratchet Crimps
• Wire Strippers
• Assorted Automotive cable
• Heat Shrink Butt Connectors (OEM VW Group with Glue)
• Heat Gun
• Socket Set
• Pick Set
• Screw Driver Set
• Multi Meter
• Assorted OEM Connectors
• Magnetic Trey
• Microfibre Cloths
• TESA / Loom Tape
• OBD Diagnostic Tool

I also keep a stock of all types of OEM trim clips incase some break, if you are looking to pull your car apart I would suggest getting some just incase. The use of Ty-Rap's / Cable Ties should be discouraged as they can cut in to wires due to driving vibrations. Same goes for soldering as joins can crack.

The amount of installations I end up finishing because people have bitten off more than they can chew is surprising. Most would not be happy removing the rear trim of an RS3 in order to complete a proper job:



Like to see someone do this with a couple of simple tools

 

[Carefree69]

DJAlix I’m NOT undermining your obvious experience and expertise BUT when I fitted my dash cam I used a blunt dinner knife, a leatherman multitool and 1 x cable tie.

There is not a mark or scuff on any of the trim where I ran the dash cam cable behind, and it works perfectly each and every time. I GET why you as a professional would use certain tools (because you want to do a clean job, and its your living etc) but it can be done with very basic tools (dinner knife).

The dash cam I fitted is for the front, I wouldn’t even bother attempting a rear facing camera.

I probably couldn’t do 90% of the retrofits that you carry out but with dash cams it really is very easy. Maybe I just got lucky.

 

[<Dan>]

I have just installed a BlackVue DR900s-2CH with MagicPro to my S3 and admittedly it took me a lot longer than I expected. However it’s in, looks good and I have learnt something new.

Most of my time taken was making sure the wires didn’t cross the airbag curtain on the windows. I also fell out with the A Pillar trim when it wasn’t cooperating, but I won eventually!

There are some good installation guides on these forums to guide you in the right direction and give you an idea of what you will have to do.

 

[royalsteve68]

Don't trust them. It's a dead easy job to fit one yourself. Paying someone is money for old rope.

Not really, depends if you are time poor and how professional you want the install. My installs included the thinkware battery backup. On the rs3 it’s a bit easier to install the battery as it’s in the boot but the s3 they’ve hidden it behind the glovebox so a lot more complex

 

[wizzywig27]

Just for the record, I’m still not confident doing it myself. It’s more the thought of damaging something.

Got a quote today of £69.99 to fit, not even sure if that’s a lot or not

 

[Carefree69]

Mate nobody is knocking you for wanting to pay for the install, the general consensus is just don’t let Halfords do it.

A standard front dash cam is pretty straightforward BUT if you aren’t confident then by all means get it done “professionally”.

As for the quote you’ve been given I have no idea whether it’s good or not.

 

[DJAlix]

DJAlix I’m NOT undermining your obvious experience and expertise BUT when I fitted my dash cam I used a blunt dinner knife, a leatherman multitool and 1 x cable tie.

There is not a mark or scuff on any of the trim where I ran the dash cam cable behind, and it works perfectly each and every time. I GET why you as a professional would use certain tools (because you want to do a clean job, and its your living etc) but it can be done with very basic tools (dinner knife).

The dash cam I fitted is for the front, I wouldn’t even bother attempting a rear facing camera.

I probably couldn’t do 90% of the retrofits that you carry out but with dash cams it really is very easy. Maybe I just got lucky.

Oh I know, is all good, and if your happy and all is working then there is nothing more to it, job done.

 

[DJAlix]

Just for the record, I’m still not confident doing it myself. It’s more the thought of damaging something.

Got a quote today of £69.99 to fit, not even sure if that’s a lot or not

£60 to £100 seems to be the current price range for single and dual channel installations. Treat a retrofitter like any tradesman that you might look to have work on your house, check their portfolio and reviews etc but most importantly make sure that they are insured.

 

[Matt Titanium]

Except in my earlier post I said I wouldn't trust Halfrauds. It's more than likely a professional would do it better, I think you're missing the point here. People pay for the peace of mind and knowing it's done properly, rather than attempting something they're not confident with. Nothing wrong with it.

A few Halfrauds dashcam fitters may do a top notch job, others may be disinterested ham fisted colourblind youths that pilfer your parking change and wipe snot under your seats. Whoever you get, you pay and they make a living from it - so they have every right to call themselves professionals by definition.

Agree, stay away from Halfords for all but their Advanced range of tools which are actually very very good and carry a lifetime warranty.

Not all but insurance companies in general do ask for proof of both hardwire and professional installation else I would not have mentioned it. While almost every type of dashcam system available is indeed installable as a DIY I think you will find that you do need a good selection of tools in order to complete an installation without faffing about and the need to revisit "parts" of said install at a later date, especially if you are also installing as external battery unit. I myself use the following:

• A selection of nylon and metal trim tools
• Snake cable and rods
• Torch
• Ratchet Crimps
• Wire Strippers
• Assorted Automotive cable
• Heat Shrink Butt Connectors (OEM VW Group with Glue)
• Heat Gun
• Socket Set
• Pick Set
• Screw Driver Set
• Multi Meter
• Assorted OEM Connectors
• Magnetic Trey
• Microfibre Cloths
• TESA / Loom Tape
• OBD Diagnostic Tool

I also keep a stock of all types of OEM trim clips incase some break, if you are looking to pull your car apart I would suggest getting some just incase. The use of Ty-Rap's / Cable Ties should be discouraged as they can cut in to wires due to driving vibrations. Same goes for soldering as joins can crack.

The amount of installations I end up finishing because people have bitten off more than they can chew is surprising. Most would not be happy removing the rear trim of an RS3 in order to complete a proper job:

View attachment 167848 View attachment 167849

Like to see someone do this with a couple of simple tools

I'm sure you make an absolutely top notch job. I'm not knocking your obvious skills in automotive electrics, installation work or criticising anyone who comes to you to feel that warm glow and peace of mind of a job done "properly". But it will come at a price. How much do you charge to fit a front dashcam?
The OP wants to fit a NextBase Dashcam that he already has and asked how difficult it is to connect a wire into the fusebox.

I didn't buy a dashcam to film journeys through the Swiss Alps in 4k to marvel at the spectacle on a 55" TV. I have one that switches on and off with the car so it doesn't knacker my battery. It tells me when it starts recording so I know it's working. It can read a number plate and prove an accident was not my fault (which it already has) and it has worked perfectly for six months. all bought and fitted for under £50.
Some people are willing to pay £250 plus fitting for the best, but myself and I suspect the OP don't fall into that category.

 

[Carefree69]

I am happy and all is working perfectly, so yeah job done

 

[Carefree69]

Oh I know, is all good, and if your happy and all is working then there is nothing more to it, job done.

I am happy and all is working perfectly, so yeah job done

 

[DJAlix]

A few Halfrauds dashcam fitters may do a top notch job, others may be disinterested ham fisted colourblind youths that pilfer your parking change and wipe snot under your seats. Whoever you get, you pay and they make a living from it - so they have every right to call themselves professionals by definition.



I'm sure you make an absolutely top notch job. I'm not knocking your obvious skills in automotive electrics, installation work or criticising anyone who comes to you to feel that warm glow and peace of mind of a job done "properly". But it will come at a price. How much do you charge to fit a front dashcam?
The OP wants to fit a NextBase Dashcam that he already has and asked how difficult it is to connect a wire into the fusebox.

I didn't buy a dashcam to film journeys through the Swiss Alps in 4k to marvel at the spectacle on a 55" TV. I have one that switches on and off with the car so it doesn't knacker my battery. It tells me when it starts recording so I know it's working. It can read a number plate and prove an accident was not my fault (which it already has) and it has worked perfectly for six months. all bought and fitted for under £50.
Some people are willing to pay £250 plus fitting for the best, but myself and I suspect the OP isn't one of them.

Any Dashcam is better than none, every vehicle should have one even if it’s a crappy £20 aliexpress job and everyone has different specifications and needs. The OP is looking for a professional retrofit and I just wanted to point out that this would be vastly different to a DIY or Halfords job, and even some professionals screw these up.

Myself I ask £60 for a single channel installation, £100 for a dual channel. External battery units are extra. The “customer” supplies the camera kit of choice and I supply everything else within the my price, including a 1 year warranty. 100% insurance safe with all wires hidden, factory runs and earthing points.

 

[wizzywig27]

Any Dashcam is better than none, every vehicle should have one even if it’s a crappy £20 aliexpress job and everyone has different specifications and needs. The OP is looking for a professional retrofit and I just wanted to point out that this would be vastly different to a DIY or Halfords job, and even some professionals screw these up.

Myself I ask £60 for a single channel installation, £100 for a dual channel. External battery units are extra. The “customer” supplies the camera kit of choice and I supply everything else within the my price, including a 1 year warranty. 100% insurance safe with all wires hidden, factory runs and earthing points.

And if you weren’t in London I’d have your hand off for that price. I’m not a million miles away....but you are central London almost lol

 

[DJAlix]

And if you weren’t in London I’d have your hand off for that price. I’m not a million miles away....but you are central London almost lol

Am North London. Pop down on a weekend, leave the car with me for the retrofit, walk 5 mins to Alexandra Palace train station or 6 mins to the Piccadilly line and pop in to central London for some shopping

 

[wizzywig27]

Am North London. Pop down on a weekend, leave the car with me for the retrofit, walk 5 mins to Alexandra Palace train station or 6 mins to the Piccadilly line and pop in to central London for some shopping

North London/London, you say tomato I say tomatoe lol

When spurs finally move into their new ground you can be my car park space for the day?

 

[DJAlix]

North London/London, you say tomato I say tomatoe lol

When spurs finally move into their new ground you can be my car park space for the day?

Don't have a problem with that at all

 

[wizzywig27]

Don't have a problem with that at all

Hold on, you are in Leicester too?

 

[DJAlix]

Hold on, you are in Leicester too?

I have a coding partner in Leicester, who is a Cabrio roof specialist, who hosts remote coding sessions for me. He does take on retrofits however I am not sure he would take on works like this.

 

[wizzywig27]

I have a coding partner in Leicester, who is a Cabrio roof specialist, who hosts remote coding sessions for me. He does take on retrofits however I am not sure he would take on works like this.

Oh, well I’ll keep you informed mate

 

[DJAlix]

Oh, well I’ll keep you informed mate

Will speak to my guy tomorrow and drop you a pm