How to Connect BACKUP CAMERA to Reverse Light (How to use Wire Tap Connectors)

This is how I connect a backup camera to the reverse light using wire tap connectors (T-Taps).
Links to the wire taps below:
Standard Wire Tap Connectors amzn.to/3ozRVmZ
Hand Tool amzn.to/3kHNq8X
Wire Gauge Measurement Tool amzn.to/3WRQvUM
Alternative Connectors
T Tap Splice Wire Tap amzn.to/3oA0cav
Crimping Tool for T Tap Connector amzn.to/3qLgKPA
White Probe comes in this kit amzn.to/3yJs8yA
Basic Probe amzn.to/3HNG65X
Probe with Voltmeter amzn.to/3HXEG8X
This connection can also enable Parking Assist on a dashcam that support Reverse Guidelines.
RELATED VIDEO PLAYLISTS
Dash Cam Reviews
• Mirror Dash Cam Reviews
Heads Up Displays for Car
• Heads Up Displays for Car
OBD2 Car Scanners & Adapters
• OBD2 Scanners Code Rea...
LED Headlights & RGB Lighting
• LED Headlights & RGB L...
Backup Cameras & Side Cameras
• Backup Cameras, Side C...
Car Stereos and Android Auto & Apple Carplay Adapters
• Receivers & Android Au...
Portable Tire Inflators & Air Compressors
• Air Compressors, Porta...
Visit the AutoFun Store for cool merchandise! autofun.myspreadshop.com/
My Instagram / alexautofun
Chapters:
0:00 Introduction to Wire Tap Connections
1:12 Wire Sizes Explained
3:53 Connector Sizes
5:37 Connector Installation
9:24 Correct use of wire taps
11:35 How to Find the Reverse Wire
12:45 Testing for Voltage
15:05 Final Steps
Disclaimers: Vehicle repair, service, modification or installation of aftermarket components should only be performed by a trained professional. Do not try this at home. Injury or Death can occur. I'm not a trained mechanic. I'm not a trained installer. Any action you take on the information on the AutoFun KZbin channel and in the videos, contained therein is strictly at your own risk. Autofun makes no warranties on the accurateness of the information. This video description contains income earning affiliate links.

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Everybody! here is my other video that shows How to Hardwire Dash Cam kzbin.info/www/bejne/sJPbinRqi82oipo

[@tylerdelabruere681]

Hey, I think your video was very informative and I appreciate your thoroughness. I do have a question, though… How do you unplug the wire from the connection tab without damaging anything (the first side of the splicer the wire runs all the way through) Then, how easy or hard is it to re-install the wire back into the connector tab?

[@AlexAutoFun]

@@tylerdelabruere681 Hi Tyler! thank you, glad to hear it helped. Ah good question, if there is a need to discontinue using the wire tap, it is normally recommended not to remove the wire tap as this would leave the pass thru wire with cut insulation exposed. I typically open the protective cover, remove the extra wire and reclose the wire tap leaving it in place installed over the pass thru wire. Regarding re-installation, it's not recommended to remove wire taps and reinstall them since the connection won't be secure as on a virgin connector. Installing a new virgin wire tap connector would need to be required. Hope this helps bud!

[@needblinds2592]

You fantastic

[@AlexAutoFun]

@@needblinds2592 Thank you Bud!

[@neombini]

This was exactly what I was looking for to help me install a backup camera. I have no experience with wiring, but your explanations were so clear and I’m confident I can connect it. Thank you!

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome neombini! and thank you for watching!

[@adanortiz1935]

How did it go? I’m on the same boat right now

[@neombini]

@@adanortiz1935 I did all the steps and at first it didn’t work. I had my husband take a look, because sometimes another set of eyes can help. He said it looked like maybe one of the t-taps wasn’t clamped far enough. Another pinch with the pliers and everything worked! I’ve been really happy with it and just ordered a second back up camera for our other car.

[@adanortiz1935]

@@neombini wow that’s awesome!

[@andyle9554]

@@neombini hey what backup camera did you order?

[@gualbertofigueroa8557]

I love your Communication skills, patience, and ability to make complicated things simple. Thanks to you I just installed a woulfbox g900 camera all by myself. Thank a million.

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome Gualberto and thank you!

[@apsaravideo]

I love your detailed explanation and slow, clear talk. It's very helpful. Thank you for making the video.

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome apsaravideo! glad to hear it helped, Cheers!

[@Shaze-haze]

Thanks! Your teaching style is amazing. I love how you explain the details of why something is how it is. A lot of videos explain how to do something but you explain why and you put it in layman's terms. 💯

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome Shaze-haze and thank you for supporting the channel!

[@ericli3091]

Thanks. Clear, easy to follow, and no BS.

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome and thank you Eric!

[@mick5119]

Thanks so much for your time you take to give your knowledge for us guys out in KZbin world, am 63 and still believe your not to old to learn new skills, this video was so helpful to me as am about to fit a dash cam which requires me to tap into the reversing light. EXCELLENT VIDEO 👍.

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome Mick and thank you! fully agree with you, we are always learning new things!

[@luchio0377]

You are the best! Thank you so much for your videos. The time and effort you put in all of them is visible. Genuine.

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you AMAZONLUCCI! I appreciate that!

[@levideverney9248]

I've never seen a video more explanatory than this one. I sure will be watching more of his videos.

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you Levi! Glad to hear it helped, Cheers!

[@flonkas]

My goodness what a fantastic video. Extremely well spoken, thoughtful, tutorial, I have to subscribe after seeing this

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you Jim! and welcome to the channel! 😎

[@Akhenatonio]

So descriptive and simple. Amazing job, my guy. Thank you.

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome Akhenatonio and thank you Bud!

[@andyholmes6380]

Excellent video. You covered EVERYTHING, not just the process. 👍

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you Andy!

[@tomika241000]

Thanks a lot for the clear explanation! It looks easy with this Tap connector. I'm about to install my back up camera for the first time on my 2011 Chey Cruze. You gave the best explanation there is!! Thank you.

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome!

[@SingleSup540]

I wasn't going to attempt my own backup camera install but I feel much more confident with tapping into the trigger wire after watching this. Thank you

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome Jonathan!

[@hoavan68]

Your video was a big help for me to install a back up camera on my 13 year old Toyota Matrix. Thks

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome Van! glad to hear it helped, Cheers!

[@karendavare3144]

You do an excellent job explaining! Thank you.

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome and thank you!

[@razorgun]

Great video! I wish all how-to vids were this good.

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you Razor Dobbs! I appreciate that, Cheers!

[@DaveDabomb]

Man, that was a great tutorial. Very clear and concise. Thank you so much for sharing this! Light subbed, and rang the bell!

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you DaBomb Smokes and welcome to the channel!

[@jwalbrig]

Very well done. Thank you! I am adding back-up camera to license plate power.

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome and thank you!

[@Jess-ib5pj]

Exact presentation, I was looking for, Thanks from 🇦🇺

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome Jess and thank you, Cheers from California!

[@prestonbooker5950]

Mate, you are a brilliant teacher/communicator! Mil gracias senor!

[@AlexAutoFun]

Gracias Preston! Glad to hear it helped, Cheers Bud!

[@milagrossmith4891]

I have watched a few of your videos, and I really feel like I can do this myself even though I don’t have experience in wiring in a car.

[@pitaguy11]

Great video. Nice, clear and concise instructions. Thank you!

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome Mikey and thank you!

[@pjnonato]

Wow I just watch 3 of your videos. They were all great!

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you Pamela! Cheers!

[@colinbiddle2649]

Followed the video and now it’s perfect

[@AlexAutoFun]

Nice! 👌

[@brandonfermo501]

amazing video. covered everything. should deserve more views!

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you Brandon! I appreciate that!

[@miguelavendano2530]

Very informative, indeed. Thank you so much.

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome Miguel! glad to hear it helped!

[@inNYCC]

This guy is awesome.... So knowledgeable

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you Cesar! 🍻

[@johng.4959]

Perfect video! Great Job explaining!!!! 👍

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you John! I appreciate that bud!

[@johng.4959]

@@AlexAutoFun Subscribed! Any thoughts on using a "Wago-type" connector? My only problem with the "vampire taps" is that installation and choosing the correct part is very important. As you made clear in the video!

[@alive-awake]

Wow, you were very thorough. Good video!

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you Renee!

[@shoaibsultani1803]

Wow. Very well explained. Nice one 👍

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thanks Shoaib!!

[@kiddmode]

Fantastic video. Thank you!

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome kidd! Cheers!

[@kriminalxrr]

Very informative, thank you for the new found knowledge. I'm confident I can install a reverse camera now.

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome K, Cheers!

[@ewersm1]

Great instruction...thank you!

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome Michael!

[@ruiz212]

This gets a thumbs up for the content AND for the DM sticker.

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you Ruiz! 😎

[@mingyan8081]

very informative, thank you!

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome Ming Yan!

[@MrMaster2262]

Extremely greatful... i am like a fish out of water when it comes to anything electrical. Your video was very informative & super helpful. massive thank you for your upload. 😉👍

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome and thank you Bud!

[@rudykemmer6282]

Damn good video from the way you explained the process to the way you filmed it learned a lot thanks

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you Rudy!

[@MRBETTO700]

Thank u bro, I will try to do mine this next weekend

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome Alberto!

[@bengierodriguez3202]

Thank you for being so clear in your explanations. It shows you are a GREAT communicator. You know how to effectively communicate your thoughts. I have always been afraid of car electronics; It has always confused me, therefore restraining me from trying projects. Do you have a book for Dummies or novices?

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you Bengie! I appreciate that and glad to hear it helped. I don't have a book yet but I been thinking about it now that more people have asked me for a easy to read e-book, may have to put something together...

[@anav1404]

Great video, thanks!

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome and thank you Ana, Cheers!

[@LaxBboys]

@10:10 wow Ty for that important info! My rexing m2 dash cam wire came exposed so I would of mess up one very important step. Anyway ur video was very easy to follow. I have zero knowledge in auto mechanic. Ty for the visual tutorial and showing ur viewers how to do it.

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome LaxBboys!

[@socawarrior1263]

This is an excellent video . Very good content

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you Soca warrior!

[@gamingSlasher]

Super good explanations

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thanks bro! 🍻

[@PCPAyLOAD]

Excellent video really informative.

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you! The Artist formerly known as - PC PAYLOAD •!

[@PCPAyLOAD]

@@AlexAutoFun Im wiring a backup cam for my first time and it came with these wire tap clips but wasn't sure how to use them. Thank you!

[@userx76y]

you explanation is too good, i have to sub😂

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you Clovax and welcome to the channel!

[@williamgillespie3127]

Best video I’ve ever seen the best communication I ever ever herd thank you 🙏 subscribed bell 🔔

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you William and welcome to the channel!

[@validatedcustomer604]

Great video 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you validated customer!

[@seccat]

Nice “Depeche Mode” sticker 👍🏻

[@AlexAutoFun]

Good eye! Thanks seccat!

[@scotthoward127]

Sooooooo helpful!!!!

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thanks Scott, glad to hear it helped, Cheers!

[@karendavare3144]

Thanks!

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you for supporting the channel Karen! 😀

[@AppleiOSGenius]

Love it classic DM101

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you AppleiOSGenius!

[@kriscarmelo]

Love D mode!

[@rickysanchez5942]

Solid 👍🏻 👍🏻

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you Ricky!

[@Breezyaon1]

Patos locos, dang he's good

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thanks @Breezyaon1, Cheers!

[@xijinliu2215]

Excellent job for putting this video online. It is very useful for me to udnerstand how different connector s work. May I ask what size (gauge) connector I should buy for Lexus 2012 RX350. I have had difficult time to find the info online. Thanks very much in advance!

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Xijin Liu! glad to hear it helped. Ah regarding the gauge size of the wires used on your car, one way to find what they are (the are multiple gauge sizes used with a car) is to check the wiring diagrams on the factory service manual. If you don't have access to the service manual the second way to find out would be to locate the wire that will be tapped and checking the writing on the insulation, it normally will say what gauge it is. Hope this helps, Cheers!

[@hetavraval1312]

Hi Alex! Glad you made so many videos on hardwire kit! Helping me a lot. I just have a question regarding correct connector for reverse camera red wire. For G900 wolf box, what is the wire size? And how can I check if my connection is good on connector? I don’t have the tool to measure it. Thank you for your help once again.

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Hetavraval! Ah I placed a link in the description to the wire gage measuring tool. But normally what I see dash cams use is a small wire that I connect using the Red connector (the color of the connector denotes the AWG range it can be used for, link to the connector kit in the video description) But I do like using the AWG wire measuring tool when there is doubt about the wire size. Regarding testing the connection, typically installers will use a voltmeter to check it (checking for 12VDC) but usually when IDC connectors are used correctly, they seems to work well almost every time. Cheers!

[@misbeautifulable]

Thank you for the detailed video I got what I need to fix my back up camera I getting no signal I tried everything up front but the back

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome Melissa, Glad to hear it helped! 😊

[@millin2222]

Thanks for the advice great video. Can I ask what if you connect to the wire, how would you rectify it, is the main wire damage

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome anthony! ah yes there are a couple ways to repair a broken wire, one is with a crimp slice as seen here kzbin.info/www/bejne/bmTEZKpsetmtjtE at the 2:00 mark or using bullet terminals kzbin.info/www/bejne/h6vaaqyLjrNqsNE at the 2:25 mark or using soldering (solder splice) I do have a full series on soldering if you like to learn that process, stay tuned. Hope this helps. Cheers!

[@SlimNubster]

Great video. I've seen some other audio guys on KZbin mention that the ground shouldn't be tapped, it's best to give it it's on ground. Is this true?

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you Slim! Ah some installers will run a dedicated ground cable but most ground directly to the body. I'm not an Electrical expert so I can't say which is better, I would recommend for your to follow your installers recommendation and the instructions of the device that the installer is connecting to the vehicle. Cheers!

[@TheHiddenLettuce]

this was actually super helpful, though my jeep wires are a different size from my backup wire that i need to tap into it, might be a dumb question but i can tap 2 different gauge wires into each other cant it?

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Renavault! Ah great question, I checked on my workmanship book (IPC-620) and the answers is as I suspected. If both wires are within the gage range of the IDC connector and the connector specifications indicate that it does support multiple wires then yes it could be done. That being said the IDC connectors I linked in the description only allow you to tap into a single continuous wire. In cases where I need to tap 2 wires off 1 wire. I simple tap the single wire and then make a connection to 2 wire pigtail allowing me to provide a connection to 2 wires from a single IDC wire tap. Cheers!

[@shazenmaire]

Thanks! I'm really excited to try this, I got the redtiger mirror dash cam, does it come with this connector or I need to buy it to enable the parking assist?

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Karl! The dash cam extension cable comes with the wire that can enable parking assist, you can see it in my full review video for it here kzbin.info/www/bejne/bmOWlaKGfLKobpI and here is my install video here kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqmUmGRubZysjdU my recommended settings video kzbin.info/www/bejne/rJKtfpSXq5x5mLc and my hardwire video kzbin.info/www/bejne/q4vTamiEl7Ofo68 Cheers!

[@jblack3097]

Great video and great information! I have a question for you or anyone who can give me an answer. From time to time I need to join a wire thats very thin for example a 22awg to a larger wire, we'll say 14 awg. Since the connectors are color coded for specific gauge ranges and those two gauges fall into different color codes whats the best way to join these?

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi J! Ah yes for those cases, there are two methods used (and approved by the industry under IPC-A620 which is the standard that controls harness assembly & crimps) One is to double up the diameter of the smaller conductor by folding the conductor back, you can see that technique in my video here kzbin.info/www/bejne/h6vaaqyLjrNqsNE at around the 2:40 mark The other method is similar, a filler wire of the same type is used (the filler wire is inserted into the crimp along with the wire to be crimped to build up the diameter) Hope this helps, Cheers!

[@rambo9014]

Thanks @autofun. Is there a connector available then allows adding a wire without splicing existing wire?

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Ram Bo! I'm assuming you are trying to avoid the IDC connector I used on this video? (The connector that pierces the insulation to make contact with a wire) if so yes there are more connectors styles out there but there are typically used to join 2 wires, not to add to an existing wire. What installers normally do if they want to avoid IDC is the cut the insulation of the wire they are tapping and solder in a new wire (I may make a video on this process) Hope this helps, Cheers!

[@zvlogs479]

Hi Does it support DAB radio as well?

[@saherhamdan]

Hi Alex thanks for you videos they're very helpful . What should I do if the wire that goes to the reverse lamp its not long enough 🤔?

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome saher! ah yes the cable can be made longer, here are two videos where I show two methods that could be used to extend it's length: one is with a crimp slice kzbin.info/www/bejne/bmTEZKpsetmtjtE at the 2:00 mark and the second method using bullet terminals kzbin.info/www/bejne/h6vaaqyLjrNqsNE at the 2:25 mark. Hope this helps. Cheers!

[@saherhamdan]

Thank a million for your quick reply. Maybe I didn't explain right . The red wire that comes withe rear camera that goes to the reverse light its not long enough to reach the lamp ?any ideas what should I do ?

[@AlexAutoFun]

@@saherhamdan You're welcome saher! the same technique I showed in the two videos I linked can be used by your installer to extend the wire. The third alternative would be to solder a longer wire instead of using splices or a bullet terminal but soldering is typically harder than manual hand crimping a splice or a bullet terminal. Cheers friend!

[@saherhamdan]

@@AlexAutoFun thank a million you are the best . I dont know much about wiring but your videos made me hardwire my dash cam on my own. You explanations in every video is amazing 👏. Thank you

[@AlexAutoFun]

@@saherhamdan You're welcome!

[@yacinekm9604]

Hi ! I hope you are having a good day, i have a question, if the rear reverse bulb burned, the camera will not going to engage??

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Yacine! Correct, the backup camera or park assist in the case of a dash cam will still work since the trigger wire is looking for power independent of the light bulb working on not. Hope this helps, Cheers!

[@Blightana]

One thing also that was not mentioned in the video is in some weird wiring cases you might also find a wire that has a shielding around it some sort of ground shielding inside of the plastic of the wire and in that case you should not use these kind of connectors because you could possibly short the wire with the shielding if the shielding is grounded

[@AlexAutoFun]

Good tip Blightana, definitely using an IDC connector without removing a conductive shield could lead to a short. Cheers!

[@renzostylee10]

Hello, I loved your video. I have a question. I have to connect 2 cables, one from the video cable to the 12 V cable and the other to the 12 V camera cable. How do I connect the two cables at the same time to the red hook? I have my doubts. I just saw that you connected a single cable what solution could you give me I hope you help me thanks

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi renzonstylee10, some people install two wires into the same IDC connector however my preferred method is to install one IDC connector per wire. Hope this helps and thanks for watching!

[@HaddaClu]

Hi is there an advantage to using this type of tap instead of the posi tap connectors? Im looking at potentially installing a camera on my vehicle, and i just want o make sure I have all facts before I buy anything or get my car torn apart. Thanks for the great video!

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome! Ah regarding Posi Tap connections, I have not personally used them however I been in the cable harnessing industry for a very long time and the standard we use for wire crimps and IDC (the connectors shown on the video) connections does not cover them (WHMA-IPC-620). Now this does not mean that there are not good, it's just a style of connector that I have not seen being used for manufacturing cable harness or specified by customers (aerospace, automotive etc.) for their harness. It's possible they are more meant for end customers (such as individuals doing DYI and local installers) Hope this helps, Cheers!

[@hellcatsarefuego1442]

Can you use this to ground cables to reverse light for backup camera

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Hellcatsarefuego! by grounding cables, do you mean connecting a back up camera for power? if so yes, the reversing light is commonly used for positive and the ground wire (normally black) is connected to a metallic portion of the car's body (ground). Hope this helps and thanks for watching!

[@kayboo5835]

So does one end of the + wire go to the head unit (where it says rear cam input) and the other end (at the rear trunk) goes to the + reverse trigger? My rear cam also has + and - outputs so the + goes to the reverse trigger as well (so I'll have 2, one from the rear head to the back + reverse light and another for the rear cam input) and the other to ground (obviously) Your help is appreciated 🙏

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Kay! Ah I would recommend for the installer to follow the instruction manual that cam with your head unit to ensure is wired correctly and there are no warranty issues down the road if connected differently. Regarding your question, while I'm not familiar with your head unit, some devices require only a single wire to trigger parking assist (12V+), some devices use 2 wires for power (12V+ and GND) and finally some devices use 3 wires (2 for power and 1 for the trigger) Cheers!

[@kayboo5835]

@@AlexAutoFun Thanks for the quick response! It's the same as yours and the yellow rca cable that came with the camera has a red lead on each end. I plugged in the yellow rca to the cam in (on the back of the head unit) and the red wire to backup cam input (again on the back of the unit) but the I'm not sure what to do with the rear end of the yellow rca as it also has a red wire attached to it but as you know the instructions are useless! I know how to connect the rear camera to the rear reverse + trigger and the other to the - (I understand all that) but I'm not sure what to do with the little red wire attached to other end of the yellow rca in the trunk as leaving it unattached I get no signal but I'm pretty sure it has to go to a + source at the rear (most likely reverse + as well) to signal the head unit to switch to the reverse camera when putting the car in reverse. Does it make sense now as I'm installing it for my dad but that wire has to attach somewhere and bring red it has to go to a + line or trigger. I just didn't see that part in your video, only the front or head unit part. Everything else was a breeze! Thanks again and looking forward to your reply!

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Kay! Ah if the instructions are no good, I would strongly recommend for the installer to contact the camera vendor for support to ensure the wiring for the camera is connected to the correct places (for safety and to avoid voiding the warranty if connected differently). I seen cases where the installer tried to guess a connection and fried the system in doing so ouch! LOL Normally the systems that I install, only use a single wire that I have to tap as shown on the video (12V+) to trigger parking assist, depending on the product some have an integrated cable extension that connects both the single and the trigger to the product and some have separate wiring (sounds like yours have separate wiring) it just varies from product to product. Cheers!

[@kayboo5835]

@@AlexAutoFun It is a single wire exactly like yours with either end of the yellow rca has like 4 inches of the red wire exposed and not separate. It looks like it goes into the rca sheath but the rca is so thin it's hard to tell if it does. If it is connected to the rca sheath inside it's most likely a - trigger from the rear reverse lights and since it connects to the brown wire at the front of the unit, it must likely would be - as brown is usually associated with - Why they put a red wire confuses me as it's always associated with + I've installed a lot of aftermarket head from actual brand names with no issues but they provide proper wiring diagrams unlike these units.

[@hisngying]

Hi are both wire (hot and ground ) require the t tap connections ? Thank you

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi hisngying! this depends on what is being connected (refer to your products manual) some only require the positive lead to be connected (to act as a trigger) and some require both positive and ground (to act as a power source) Hope this helps, Cheers!

[@johnLA1961]

I got the optional dashcam mounting bracket, so it looks like a stock rearview mirror.

[@AlexAutoFun]

Nice!

[@franciscomorales7012]

i see with the tap red get (+) positive for the camera.. but negative? use another tap for negative or put to chasis ground??

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Francisco! For ground I normally find a bolt close to the area where I need to make the ground connection, I loosen the bolt and slide the wire under the bolt head (fitted with a ring or fork terminal) Now while most of the car frame is ground sometimes there is not enough bare metal exposed to make a good connection (rare but it happens) in that case, I sand off some of the paint to get a good ground connection) here is a video where I make the ground connection with sanding kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZnFo4eoZ8yid7c and here is a video where I make the connection without sanding kzbin.info/www/bejne/sJPbinRqi82oipo Cheers!

[@thet3k1n]

a question: do i need to do the same thing for the black (non-electrical, earth) cable? cuz my camera has 2 cables, 1 for electric 1 for earth. should i do it for the black or is it okay to leave it like that? thanks friend.

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Tekin! For ground I normally find a bolt close to the area where I need to make the ground connection, I loosen the bolt and slide the wire under the bolt head (fitted with a ring or fork terminal) Now while most of the frame is ground sometimes there is not enough bare metal exposed to make a good connection (rare but it happens) If that happens, I sand off some of the paint to get a good ground connection) here is a video where I make the ground connection with sanding kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZnFo4eoZ8yid7c at around the 2:30 mark and here is a video where I make the connection without sanding kzbin.info/www/bejne/sJPbinRqi82oipo Cheers!

[@tawnee124]

Lord Jesus thank you for this

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome tawnee124!

[@jamesortega8681]

where to connect negative wire of dash cam? and does that mean rear camera only gets power when you are reversing?

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi James! the ground wire (negative) is simply connected to a metallic potion of the car body. Regarding your 2nd question, this depends on the product being connected. On dash cams connecting the red wire enables reverse guidelines on a dashcam. On reversing cameras sometimes connecting the red wire switches the system on and shows the reverse view. However on some reversing cameras and stereos with reversing systems connecting the red wire and ground is what powers the rear camera. So it really comes down to the type of product being installed. Hope this helps!

[@Rbenterprises4]

Have you ever run across the radio not shutting off when the ignition is turned off and the driver’s door opened on an aftermarket radio equipped with a license plate backup camera? It will run the battery down after a few days. 2008 f150. Thanks!

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Reggie! Nope I have not but sounds like there is an issue there. I would have the installer check the installation of the aftermarket radio and possibly a professional mechanic to check for any codes set on the car to see if the issue is on the OEM systems of the car. Here is a good scanner that I use for that kzbin.info/www/bejne/mmLad3RpnNikaJI Cheers!

[@Rbenterprises4]

Thanks!

[@AlexAutoFun]

You're welcome!@@Rbenterprises4

[@bradfiscus3482]

Alex, do I use a connector for the black wire(-) also? I am seeing the red connected, what about black?

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Brad! most backup camera systems only use a trigger wire (positive to activate the parking assist function) however if your systems requires positive and ground, the ground wire is connected to the car's chassis (ground). Here is a video where I make a ground connection kzbin.info/www/bejne/sJPbinRqi82oipo at the 13:10 mark if want to see how that looks. Cheers!

[@bradfiscus3482]

@@AlexAutoFun thank you!

[@AlexAutoFun]

@@bradfiscus3482 You're welcome!

[@marks_02]

Is there any reason to tap into the wire so close to the plug? I wouldn’t want to risk messing up the factory plug. Do everything the same but then find that same wire within the trunk, and tap into it there. That will also help with finding a place for your ground wire.

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Mark! On this case convenience. However yes the wire could be tapped in a different area away from the end. Cheers!

[@sagarsahani]

Hi I installed my reverse cam the same way on my corolla, somehow it does not work, right now the wires are spliced like both the wires new and old are tight enough can we confirm that they’re spliced correctly? Should i try press more to see if connection gets better. Fyi reverse lights are working fine

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Sagar! I would have the installer confirm all the connections are secure (normally installers can use a voltmeter to confirm that the connection has been made and also that the wire is not broken somewhere internally on the way to the device that is using the trigger wire), also that the correct wire was tapped and that "park assist" is enabled on the dash cam (I'm assuming the connection was done to enable reverse guidelines). Cheers!

[@Rob81818]

Hello, I have a GX460 and the reverse light is located away from the door panel. Can I tap the wolfbox rear camera from the car's reverse camera instead?

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi R M! While I have seen installers tap into other locations that have power when the car is in reverse only, I personally always use the reverse light (if the light is far from the rear camera location I simply extend the wire for it to reach) since it's just a light the possibility of the car not liking tapping into it is low. When tapping into other systems that are more complex for example the reverse camera the possibility of the car not liking the system being tapped is higher. Hope this helps, Cheers!

[@jlin1212]

I am following along except for one step. How can you identify what AWG is the reverse light wiring ？ most of the car do not have AWG labeled on the wires, it is a game of trial and error to tell which size of T tap to use

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi J Lin! Ah yes sometimes they don't mark them with the AWG, over time you will be able to eyeball their size but there sure way to find out it's actual size is to look at the service manual for the car under the electrical section it will show this. There are also quick reference tools to help eye ball the size like this one amzn.to/3jhKnWQ and I say eye ball because the diameter of the wire will vary depending on their individual stranding or if they are solid instead of stranded, so you can potentially have two wires of the same gauge with slightly different dimensions. Hope this helps, Cheers!

[@tovinh9309]

So the green wire connect to the revers ligh wire? Also does it positive or negative wire of the light?

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi to vinh! The wire coming from the dash cam or device being powered by the reversing tail light could be green, red or other color, it varies. However yes, the wire is connected to positive wire, you can see it at the 12:45 mark. Hope this makes sense and thanks for watching!

[@tovinh9309]

@@AlexAutoFun Thank you. Also I have VT1 model and I would like backup camera on when I reverse without hiting power buttom.

[@AlexAutoFun]

@@tovinh9309 You're welcome! yeah it's convenient to have it auto switch for sure..

[@RomanEmpirePR]

I install a back up camera and now the reverse light are on all the time plus the back up camera as well, any help ?

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Roman! that is very strange! I would double check all the wiring something is likely making contact with something else where it shouldn't or the wiring is connected to the incorrect wire. Also check if your vehicle has a CANBUS interface for the lights, some do and on those cars you will need an additional filter to be able to tap into the reversing tail light of the car without throwing the system off. Hope this helps and thanks for watching!

[@calvinh92630]

Do i insert black and red wires from camera to T tap? my back up camera has red and black wire

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Calvin! I would have the installer refer to the instruction manual that came with the backup camera to confirm where they should be connected to. Sounds like it's a 2 wire setup (power and ground), so one wire would need 12V+ and the other would go to Negative (ground) but again it would be critical to confirm this with the instruction manual. Hope this helps, Cheers!

[@jaredjason8]

i have a 16awg fuse tap that i need but the acc wire for a hardwire kit is 20awg what would i do?

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Jared, here is are some IDC connectors with the range you are looking for amzn.to/44OkIYl Cheers!

[@muntadhersaeed4189]

My product requires a power source (both positive and ground). My question can I just connect both my red and black to the reverse light red and black?

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Muntadher! I would refer to your product's instruction manual to see how it's wants it to the connected. Normally the black wire is grounded as opposed to being connected to a black negative wire, but again I would recommend referring to the products installation manual. Hope this helps, Cheers!

[@nguyen1314]

White wire is the one you plug in to?

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Mike! As shown on the video, the color of the wire will vary from car make to car make. The instructions that came with the product being installed will show which wire(s) need to be tapped. The voltmeter technique shown on the video can then be used to ID the wires needed or as mentioned, referring to the car's service manual can show which color wires are positive and negative. Cheers!

[@izzo4231]

If I wanted to install rear fog led lights and the unit came with two wires (black and red) and I wanted to tap into the signal lights what would I do with the extra wire if I tapped into one line? Example would be I use the connector to slide the wire of car in then I slide one of the two wires from the led lights…what happens with the other wire ??

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi lzzo! I would have the installer refer to the instruction manual that came with the lights to confirm where they should be connected to. However sounds like it's a 2 wire setup (power and ground), so one wire would need 12V+ and the other would go to Negative (ground). Hope this helps, Cheers!

[@izzo4231]

@@AlexAutoFun thanks you . Unfortunately it didn’t come with instructions which I don’t understand why? But it came with 4 scotchlock connectors

[@ctsfiddler]

Can i connect backup sensor trigger wire to the backup camera wire instead of the reverse light?

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Tom! I haven't tested tapping into a backup sensor, so I'm not sure if it will throw anything off, however technically the dash cam is only looking for power (that only comes on when the car is put into reverse) so it doesn't know where the wire is tapped to, I just traditionally have connected to the reverse light. Hope that makes sense and thanks for watching bud!

[@ctsfiddler]

@@AlexAutoFun thanks

[@AlexAutoFun]

@@ctsfiddler You're welcome!

[@AlexAutoFun]

@@ctsfiddler You're welcome!

[@anthonyeye5981]

How do you connect the black/ground wire

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Anthony, the ground wire is simply connected to a metallic portion of the vehicle (which grounds the wire) Hope this helps and thanks for watching!

[@simplej7409]

how camera is connected with the body. We need to make a hole ?

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Simple! While some installers will make a hole, I prefer to use an existing opening. Here is my rear camera installation video showing both inside and outside installation kzbin.info/www/bejne/amW6iYFugq5pbNE with the inside being the shortest (and easiest in my opinion). Cheers!

[@eddesroches4337]

when you tested the polarity of the reverse lights, the mode of operation needed to be "reverse", how did you manage to have the vehicle in "reverse" while you were testing the polarity???

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Ed! Depending on the type of vehicle, installers typically have an assistant put the car in reverse (car parked on a level surface, the vehicle's wheels chocked, parking brake engaged, assistant holding the brake pedal down and the car key in the on position but the engine off) Cheers!

[@eddesroches4337]

@AlexAutoFun Thanks for the reply, I figured that was the case, it just wasn't mentioned while you were testing. Best to have chocks for sure AND a good working parking brake especially, since you wouldn't have much time to react if the vehicle started rolling toward you.

[@AlexAutoFun]

@@eddesroches4337 You're welcome, yeah safety first, Cheers!

[@ryzesupremus611]

Instead of using wire tap, why don't we put the cable inside the adapter (like how you measured voltage using probes, so we can use wires in that way too?)

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Rynze! I use wire taps since they are secure method of making connections but I have seen cases where people will shove a wire behind a connector to tap into it (I personally would not recommend this as the only methods that are proven in the industry is the IDC connections, Solder or Crimping) but reliability and safety would be questionable. Hope this helps, Cheers!

[@jesseramirez8022]

Everything was covered but the ground....

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Jesse! Most parking assist dash cams do not require a ground connection. However for systems that require a ground, I normally find a bolt close to the area where I need to make the ground connection, I loosen the bolt and slide the wire under the bolt head (fitted with a ring or fork terminal) Now while most of the car frame is ground sometimes there is not enough bare metal exposed to make a good connection (rare but it happens) in that case, I sand off some of the paint to get a good ground connection) here is a video where I make the ground connection with sanding kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZnFo4eoZ8yid7c and here is a video where I make the connection without sanding kzbin.info/www/bejne/sJPbinRqi82oipo Cheers!

[@jodimakransky2300]

Wait! Where’s the part where you actually connect it? So great and detailed but I’m still not sure what to do here. 😢 Thank you.

[@AlexAutoFun]

Thank you Jodi! Towards the beginning of the video I show how the connection will be made and towards the end of the video I show where the connection is made. Just remember your installer will likely refer to the instructions that came with the product to be installed to confirm the connections required. Cheers!

[@colininscore1286]

does “this” connector have a name?

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Coilin! Ah yes they go by different names: IDC Connector, Wire Tap Connector, T Tap Connector, T Splice Connector, T Connector or T-Tap Splice Connector etc. I place a link to the them in the video description if you need them. Cheers!

[@keithstudly6071]

The correct way to use a wiretap connector is to throw it away and get some crimp splices with heat shrink covers. If you love your car you'll never use the things.

[@AlexAutoFun]

Hi Keith! The standard used in the industry for wire harnessing (IPC-620-A) defines both soldering and crimping / IDC to be equal when correctly done. However in a manufacturing environment some industries do prefer soldering over crimping and insulation displacement connectors (Military and Space applications love to ask for soldering over crimp) The key is that solder or crimp process has to be done correctly, otherwise latent failures can develop later. Cheers!

[@cooleyhall4103]

Somebody wake me up please

[@AlexAutoFun]

Wake up Cooley! LOL!

[@WarriorOfEden3033]

Not everything is as fun as Turbos & Cams. If you have had to install either it’s not fun until it’s done