A mirror dash cam is installed by mounting the unit over your existing rearview mirror, connecting the rear camera and power, and routing cables along the headliner and trim.
Installing a mirror dash cam that records both front and rear gives you complete driving coverage, but the mounting sequence and cable routing determine whether you get clean video or a tangled mess. The core install takes about an hour with basic tools, and most of that time goes into hiding the wires. This guide walks through the exact steps from the included manuals, covering the mounting method that works for most vehicles and the cable path that stays out of your way.
Mount the Mirror Unit Over Your Existing Rearview
The mirror dash cam is designed to strap over your factory rearview mirror, not replace it. The rubber mounting strap wraps around both the original mirror and the dash cam unit, holding it securely in place. Before you tighten anything, test-fit the unit to confirm it clears your sun visors and doesn’t block forward visibility.
Most kits use either silicone or rubber straps. If your rearview mirror has a thick housing or special shape, check whether the included strap fits before removing any adhesive backing. The unit should sit level when you step back and look at it from the driver’s seat. Adjust the angle before final tightening so the front camera lens has a clear view through the windshield.
Run the Power and Rear Camera Cables
Power comes from your vehicle’s 12V outlet (cigarette lighter) or a hardwire kit. The included Type-C power cable plugs into the mirror unit and routes up to the headliner. Tuck the wire under the headliner material using a plastic trim tool — never force it or pry clips with a metal tool. Run the cable along the top edge of the windshield, down the A-pillar, then to the power outlet.
The rear camera cable follows the same path: start at the mirror unit, tuck it under the headliner across the roof edge, and route it down the rear pillar to the back window. Avoid routing cables across airbag deployment zones. Most trim panels pop off gently if you need to run wire behind them. Leave a little slack at both ends so the cables don’t pull tight when the vehicle flexes.
Mount the Rear Camera and Test the Video Feed
Mount the rear camera at the center of the rear window, about 6 inches from the top so defroster lines don’t block the view. Clean the glass with alcohol before applying the adhesive mount. If your kit uses adhesive pads, allow up to 24 hours for the bond to cure. Silicone strap mounts hold immediately but may shift on curved windows.
Power everything on before finalizing the cable routing. Check that both front and rear images appear on the mirror display. If the rear image is reversed, flip the camera’s mirror setting in the menu. Verify the horizon is level and the rear camera shows a useful field of view — you should see traffic behind you, not the bumper or roof edge. Insert a microSD card rated U3 or higher and format it inside the camera before first recording.
Common Install Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | What to Do Instead |
|---|---|
| Skipping the test-fit before mounting | Hold the unit in place, check clearance, and power it on before final cable routing |
| Mounting rear cam where defroster lines block view | Position the camera between defroster lines at the top-center of the window |
| Forcing trim clips with a metal tool | Use a plastic trim removal tool and work slowly around clip edges |
| Not using a U3-rated microSD card | U3 cards handle continuous write speeds required for high-definition recording |
| Forgetting to format the card in the camera | Format inside the camera before first use to ensure proper file structure |
After confirming the video feed looks correct on all channels, tuck the remaining cable slack behind the headliner and trim. If you used adhesive mounts, allow the recommended cure time before driving. The dash cam should power on automatically when the vehicle starts and begin recording. If it doesn’t, check that the Type-C connector is fully seated and the power outlet is active.
FAQs
Can you install a mirror dash cam yourself without special tools?
Yes. The install requires only the included straps and cables, a plastic trim tool (or a credit card in a pinch), and alcohol for cleaning glass. Most owners complete the job in 30–60 minutes with the basic tools in their glovebox.
Will the mirror dash cam block my sun visor?
It can if the unit is too tall for your vehicle. Test the fit before routing any cables — lower the sun visors on both sides and confirm they pass freely. Some units sit lower on the mirror glass to avoid visor interference.
Does a mirror dash cam interfere with the original rearview mirror’s function?
No, because the dash cam straps over the existing mirror rather than replacing it. The original mirror arm and adjustment mechanism remain fully usable. You still adjust the mirror the same way to see behind you.
References & Sources
- Manuals.plus. “Mirror Dash Cam User Manual.” Provides installation steps for mirror unit, rear camera, GPS, and Type-C power.