How to install and my Honest Review! *not sponsored

[@S_Paoli]

another tip: for almost all dashcams, it's best to check the recordings on the MicroSD card regular to make sure that all videos can play. Reformat the card at least every 3 to 6 months. Replace the MicroSD card yearly. Even a good Sandisk Endurance MicroSD card don't cost more than $20 these days. $20 is cheap. Finding out that your old card didn't record your accident is much more expensive than $20. :)e

[@JamiesGarage1]

Good point. Thanks

[@hundredlives3910]

Yearly replacement is so wasteful.... idk who told you that advice

[@S_Paoli]

@@hundredlives3910 I meant the MicroSD card, not the dashcam. Put a new card in every year and use the old card for other non-essential devices. :)

[@UpgradeUrWinRARTrial]

Another important part is to always get an Endurance or similar SD card, one designed to be used 24/7 and rewritten constantly. Most manufacturers won’t warranty a normal SD if it dies and they discover it’s been used in a dashcam.

[@S_Paoli]

@@UpgradeUrWinRARTrial couldn't agree with you more! Sandisk Endurance is what I've use for a long time. These cards are so cheap and reliable. Although I would not get cards above 128gb...

[@chrisfix]

The Vantrue stuff is pretty good! That’s what I usually go with! Awesome video dude!

[@JamiesGarage1]

Thank you Chris! 🙌

[@Mr.C-Mister]

HEY GO FIX SOMETHING CHRIS. STOP SCROLLING KZbin! Thanks for all the useful info. Could you see if you can add 360 degree cameras to a GMC sierra 2019 and above if you didn't buy the feature. I know I am missing the hardware. But once installed will it work? Also how do you repair the transmission 8 speed that's had a triple flush yet still jerks.

[@fineandsmurfy]

I watched 5 videos on installing this camera, yours was by far the best one in terms of clarity, showing technique on how to actually perform the installation. Great job!

[@kfdaddy]

I have a VIOFO A129 Pro Duo that I'm real happy with. Bought it December 2022. Has 4K front and 1080p rear camera, Bluetooth, parking mode if desired. Also includes GPS. About $230 on Amazon. The install kit is also sold separately, about $20, but it includes 2 connectors. One is for ACC connection for the camera and the other is for an always on connection for the parking mode. I have my parking mode set to record 1fps for 4 hours. That's more than enough for any shopping or other errands I might run. There's a free app that allows you to do all kinds of stuff without having to remove the camera or microSD card. Installation is about the same as shown in the video. Except, I chose to use empty fuse slots for the fuse taps rather than piggy back onto an existing fuse. For that you need a meter. Also important, polarity matters when you place the fuse tap. The fuse itself does not matter which way you put it in, but the fuse tap has a + and - side, and there is a hot and neutral side to the fuse slot. He didn't show that in the video, maybe he just got lucky and put it in right the first time.

[@MB-vk8cv]

If you dont want to use a fuse you can use the OBD kit they sell and youll have 24/7 parking recording. You can also do that if you use the door lock fuse.

[@formaple2106]

This is one of the most informative video I have ever seen on installing dashcams. Deserves more views. Thank you so much

[@michaeljames1134]

I bought the Vantrue N2 pro. Just one front dash cam with interior cam that can see through my back window. So far, so good. I've had it 3 months and took two long trips so far. I use my laptop or PC to view, download and or clean my card. I do wish it had internet, but for the price, well worth it! Plus, if you need to, after witnessing an accident, you can let the police view it on their car computers! (I don't recommend this for your own accident!) Save that feed for your insurance company and your lawyer!!!! Also back it up first before you share it with anyone!!! Sadly, we truly need to watch our own backs these days!!!!

[@alizawwad]

Nice video and simplified instructions :), tip for DIY installation... before you plug the fuse, you need to check witch side is the live and which side is fused, check both pins with tester or simply plug your splitter wire and confirm to get the power when you insert the fuse only. I have REDTIGER dual camera (front 4K + Rear 2K), beside the third camera it has most of the features you are missing, wifi to manage the recordings through PC or smart phone app and low power consumption parking mode when using their hardwired kit... All the best to you all... cheers

[@htownblue11]

Fair review and good install video. You always strike a balance between humor and helpful information with your videos.

[@JamiesGarage1]

That’s exactly what I strive for. Thank you!

[@itsnotfunny8257]

Hi Jamie, just wanted to tell you that I always love your content. Just don't know why you don't have a million views. People just don't appreciate detailed and informative videos, they usually like a couple minute clips that has bunch of nonsense in it. I just love the simplicity and harmless humor you got mate. Cheers.

[@S_Paoli]

for those of us who live in no-front-plate states, it's also a good idea to look into left and right cameras. I got rear ended a few years ago. The guy took a turn and ran off. My rear and front cameras obviously couldn't capture anything, since there was no front license plate. :( (note: never chase after hit & run drivers... let the cops and/or insurance company take care of it)

[@jamesm.8392]

I would be tempted but I will heed your advice.

[@BMWorks_NL]

Finally a normal video again vs shorts, keep them coming!!!!

[@JamiesGarage1]

Thanks! I have 3 or 4 more videos recorded too. Just need to find time to finish editing them. Hopefully soon. Thanks for watching!

[@rickstein8081]

I actually own that exact camera. There is an upgraded hardwire kit that allows it to power down when the car is turned off, but keeps just enough juice going through it to let the camera sense when there is something moving near your car and turns it back on, like Tesla's sentry mode. There is a parking mode setting in the camera to activate this feature. I primarily use it when Valeting my car. I agree with the Bluetooth/wifi statement, it would be nice to be able to look at camera footage when you're away from it, especially when you car is not parked at home.

[@interrestrial9815]

Well done, clear, informative, and I love your humor.

[@jouletube5605]

I like the Vantrue as well. It's nice as it captures the interior, but I also try to position it to capture the rear (no rear camera just the front/interior) because it does a good job of that without running a wire/camera to the rear camera. Might save a few dollars due to that but I know it's an individual use case. Nice vid and ty for the review!

[@DreaElias]

Your video is so cool. Thanks for all the useful and honest information that you gathered over a sufficiently long testing time period. The most informative review of this highly rated dashcam. Thanks again.

[@lronSausage]

Excellent install video, and very good review and criticisms about camera!

[@seymourcake752]

To all dash camera owners please make sure you format your SD card. Especially if you disconnect your car battery for any reason.

[@JamiesGarage1]

Good tip! Thanks

[@seymourcake752]

Yeah learned the hard way. Wife got into accident and SD card was empty. Card needed to be formatted after a car battery replacement

[@MediumHalf]

The first dashcam company that makes sd card reliability a non-issue will clean-up. People expect these to be set-and-forget.

[@allencollins7219]

Clean install. The problems discussed would make me look for a different setup. The lack of an outside power supply is a no deal for me, I had a different camera drain my battery. Thanks ✌️

[@MFlooking]

Very comprehensive and detailed review! Thanks for sharing this and keep up the great work!

[@IainB]

Another option for routing the rear camera cable is down along the door sill. That way you're staying away from those curtain airbags.

[@Sir_Saul]

What video format does the dashcam record? For example H.265 uses less storage space with better wuality

[@frankchacon388]

Best dash cam install/review out there... thnx a lot for your time...!!! 👍👍👍👌👌👌

[@markcollins457]

Great video I'm not putting cameras in my vehicle any time soon but did enjoy the pro tips they apply to many installs.

[@kettle_of_chris]

1:01 to 1:05 was absolutely hilarious! Excellent review too! Liked. Subscribed.

[@SPritch724]

Another EXCELLENT vid!!! 👍👏🏼🙌🏼🎊🎉🏆Funny thing, I installed this exact model dashcam in my Z3 and hardwired it too. Thankfully the Z shuts it down if it draws too much power. Same complaints from me too, but overall great cam that saved my Mrs when she got bumped in a parking lot! Works great with no issues. 4 of 5 stars!!

[@MM-ho7kb]

To which fuse did yoy connect it on order to have parking mode?

[@bigdaddymex2003]

Hahahahaha oh boy your a funny guy !!! I actually watched this whole video and I’ve been cracking up nonstop from the divorce to the zip ties. Funny stuff good video thank you.

[@NoCompM2]

Great review. One recommendation i would advise on is do not buy ones with a battery, stick to capacitor style dashcams. I've had countless dashcams that had the internal battery swell or the the settings of the dash cam would reset each time you turned on the car because the battery failed.

[@jamesm.8392]

Capacitors can swell too. Just do everything you can to reduce interior heat buildup.

[@robbobsjobs8456]

Exactly what I'm looking for my 95 Flairside restoration truck.

[@VaporEG]

Nice title. It clearly explains what the video is about.

[@jeffojibway9284]

Awesome install take a little extra time and hide all the wires, well done.

[@joerichardson6107]

I think the pro version resolves the connection to your phone and recording when parked issues. Good review

[@TechInspected]

Cutting the zip tie at 45 degrees is very helpful pro tip.

[@jkranzfire]

You need to use a fuse that has power when the vehicle is off for the collision detection and motion sensing to work. I used the warning flasher fuse. It has power when the ignition is off. The hard wire kit has a low battery shut off that can be set for 12v or 11.6, so it won't drain your battery.

[@1windozesuk]

Good review, bro. ty for going the 11 months, so we really know what we are in for. There are not many reviews for dashcams done well. I hope you can do some others.

[@jaicee4466]

DOD dashcams, I've been using them for 10 years with no issues. in my commercial trucks and personal vehicles. Brand of SD card do make a difference, or keep a second SD card in car and swap it out when you get the error message, if you don't want to lose the recordings.

[@forte7991]

Install looked crazy

[@d3m3tr3s]

You should put the word "Porsche" on title...I have a Vantrue camera on. my everyday car, but I was looking to install the U3000 of Thinkware to my Macan, and I could find any video. I found this one, because probably watching Chrisfix videos, and probably I searched before for the Vantrue install guide. This video came like a glove!

[@MountainStandardTime]

Great video. I wish you were my neighbor to install my kit. I've leaning towards Blackvue. Expensive, but a bit smaller unit

[@timothyengland3]

Thanks for the video, been wanting one for a while now, will definitely be looking for one after watching how easy the install process was, thank you

[@LiveFree381]

get the N5

[@timothyengland3]

@@LiveFree381 thanks

[@donaldduke2233]

Thanks, Jamie. You reviewed the make and model I am planning on buying.

[@asesuastuesitu540]

Thanks for your review, what would you buy now if you wouldn’t have this dash cam?

[@jakobbecker6435]

Looking at getting a dash cam for my 335d soon and this was pretty informative. Would also love to see more 335d content on the channel!

[@LiveFree381]

brother you need a high endurance sd card, and there is an constant power odb kit that will make sure to turn off before draining your battery

[@Mark-rw3kw]

The instructions on my Vantrue (different model) say to reformat the memory card once per month. Also, even though you don't have to use a Vantage memory card, you must use one rated for endurance and Class 30 (V30) Speed Class 3 (U3).

[@marksd5650]

I have a Rexing front and rear with the install kit and I like it very much. It’s an upgrade from the one I had before which I never figured out how to work. My Rexing has the same features as yours, but what I don’t like are the voice commands. You say video start instead of start video and so on. The fuvking thing listens to the radio and when it thinks it hears a command it goes for it. Like show rear camera instead of having both on as my default setting. Most important is video retrieval. It must be easy to find, copy download or send the video you need. I think I like the Garmin. I watch a lot of dash cam lessons videos and the people with Garmins say, ok Garmin save video.

[@thaostrich]

The "SD card error,please format SD Card" error is simply an SD Card reliability issue. SD Cards are inherently not a stable continuous-use storage media. Buy quality Cards, from a reputable brand, it helps a lot. At that price point, it would be nice to see it use a standard USB drive for storage. One other thing, these are usually just a 5V USB power input, and you can just wire them into a USB power outlet, if you get a long enough cable. Did that for mine in my new car (not paid off, no permanent mods) with no issues. I've also taken to getting power strips with USB and 12V sockets, hardwiring them, and installing them inside my dash. Makes installing multiple accessories (Dashcam, Radar Detector, etc) easier.

[@Handofseeds]

You did a good job on this review. Thanks for making it

[@jmph2058]

Nice video. I bought the same camera. Now, the cable for the rear will be long enough for a 2019 Highlander XLE? Thanks.

[@CageyLeigh]

I just wanted someone to run the wire for my 2023 Accord Touring. Lowest quote: $175 an hour. Ain’t life grand.

[@bb4prelude73]

😂 on an accord that’s wild. The plastics are fairly easy to get thru. Just buy a cheap plastic lever kit. It’s not hard

[@damntomato6451]

I can do it for $150 an hour. It’s pretty cheap considering you were quoted $175

[@cfitzgduke]

Your Macan S has a powered rear view mirror that you can tap into power with the Dongar adapter. 3-PIN KEY WAY 1Dash Cam Power Adapter Designed for select Porsche, BMW, & Toyota vehicles*

[@piterb.1250]

Is the vantrue VP04 power adapter to the OBD2 socket safe for a hybrid car? (any errors etc.) Vantrue N5 camera.

[@cesaraugustogonzalezmacias4078]

Have you tried the blackvue dashcam? they are expensive but supposedly are the best in the market.

[@v6cosworth167]

Nextbase cameras do the exact samething Format SD card, the internal battery doesn't last that long, it dies just after the warranty runs out, I've replaced the battery twice in the time i've had it 3yrs. Rear camera decides when it wants to work now. Must say the footage is good.

[@frank2398]

Just installed my system. Be sure when you install your rear cam that it has a CLEAR view out of the back window. If it "sees" one of your defroster lines on the back window this is going to be a problem! Trust me on this.

[@liboy34]

Hi the bevel cut of the plastic collars does not risk damaging the airbag if it opens? which I don't wish for you.

[@lassmaher]

I have this model from 2 years very good very safety especially in park mode but the sunglass issue real and at night need some enhancements to show plate number for around car especially there is source light come from around cars

[@JohnHill-qo3hb]

I have a DOD LS470W+, now discontinued, it has GPS which I think is imperative in a dash cam. It has a SONY STARVIS camera that produces night images that are close to daytime quality, it is a single channel though and has become a bit flaky in operation, looking for a replacement now as it is over five years old.

[@UpgradeUrWinRARTrial]

Perfect timing, I just picked up a new-to-me car and I’ve been needing to throw in a front/rear dashcam & a hardwire kit. Was looking at the Vanture N5 yesterday actually, but there was some stuff I couldn’t find. Like are you able to disable the Vantrue watermark at the top left of the video? And when you hit the lock video/SOS button, does it just lock the entire video file or will it save a 60sec chunk of it? (So if you witness an accident and hit the lock/SOS button right as the dashcam stops & starts a recording, it wont lock the “after” video but instead will create a clip with 15 sec before and 15 sec after you hit the button. This has been a reoccurring issue with my older cams, I’ll save the clip after all the action has happened.)

[@hoverpilder1905]

Hi Jamie, Awesome video !! Thanks for sharing. One quick question tho, I heard that dealers threaten to void a cars warranty when you use the hardwire kit. Have you come across that in your journey? Thanks a bunch

[@JamiesGarage1]

I haven't heard of that but I guess a dealer could try to get out of covering a warranty claim if they really wanted to

[@hoverpilder1905]

@@JamiesGarage1 Thanks. Makes me hesitant to install the hardwire kit. But like you, the cig lighter adapter is driving me nuts !!!

[@jamesm.8392]

@@hoverpilder1905 Around here they threaten to void your warranty for just changing your own oil even if you have receipts. Crazy. They think they own your car and want to keep their hands all over it.

[@DavidFerreira1986]

I have the vantrue n5 and i'm wondering, when Vantrue let us to write direcly to a external drive....

[@bradhaughton6698]

By any chanted, did you upgrade to the Nexus N5?

[@frankrodriguez5759]

I'm planning to buy N5 it does come wifi .but still lil bit expensive.

[@cfitzgduke]

Mine told me the same. "It was not my fault when I hit the tree...I blew the horn!"

[@tfish7330]

I wanted a camera that would record while the car is parked. I got the Vantrue N5 with 4 cameras. I had a hard time setting it up to do what I wanted it to do. It would not automatically switch from driving mode to parking mode even though I had it wired to a switched power source and a continuous power source. The wiring kit provided you the proper wires to do so with two different power sources. You had to switch it manually every time. I had it for a week when the battery died. The battery was $200 to replace. So I immediately removed the camera system and returned for a refund.

[@JamiesGarage1]

That's good info! I haven't used the park mode but now I want to try it to see if I get the same result. Thanks for sharing

[@fleipeg]

Great DIY video Jamie. So....what did happen?

[@RadDadisRad]

I actually have had this saved in my Amazon cart for a couple weeks. The N4 Pro. I have the 12v-usb-c power adapter added as well. I don’t want the cigarette lighter plug-in. Looks decent.

[@flandrble]

consider getting a device like a power magic pro, which lets you run it in parking mode with a voltage cut off to save the battery.

[@RadDadisRad]

@@flandrble I honestly don’t care about a battery saver. I drive enough that my battery will get used. I also park in high density parking like at airports.

[@flandrble]

@@RadDadisRad without it then your dash cam would drain your battery flat instead of cutting off at low voltage while parked.

[@RadDadisRad]

@@flandrble I know. I’m not worried.

[@mjsbiggestfan1997]

I’m curious, could you mount the rear dash cam on the outside of the car? Would it hold up in the rain?

[@GegeYang-n1h]

VIOFO has waterproof rear

[@Timbay1234]

I use the 70mai screen less dash cam works great and connects yo phone very easy to use And is very cheap

[@peteburford6791]

Just bought the nexus n5. It has 5g WiFi download and now with 4 cameras ! etc. will you be doing another updated install video anytime soon?

[@thevaranmoodley3249]

Love your videos wish I could work with you sending love from south africa

[@bill9989]

All I want is a simple dashcam that I can power by a USB Type C port from an external battery. I don't want to run wires under my car frame. I want to disconnect it whenever I leave the car (don't want the monitoring). I'd like an actual dashboard mount, not window mount. All I care about is the 5 minutes around an accident or incident. I want one strictly for two day drives to and from Florida. Is there such a dashcam?

[@gtp408]

Not sure if it’s something they changed but I have same dash cam but mine has a parking and impact sensor in case someone does happen well parked with the hardwire kit it will automatically start recording if someone hits or come close to your car

[@almwalton4032]

Definitely get the new #5 version

[@jcc6637]

nicely done on the video!

[@Ice_cooled]

What is the IP rating of rear camera? Can it be external mounted near number plate?

[@dporrasxtremeLS3]

A Bag ah Cash!!! Yea!

[@elgordation]

Garmin 66w pretty good camera for its size

[@denverjj4699]

Friend, I have a problem with the Alpina wheels, the security keys were lost and I have not been able to help me in this case. Thank you, tell me, can you guide me? Thank you very much. It is a BMW 3281 2015.

[@father6371]

You're lucky your adapter even fit. I just got mine today, and the adapters are too fat to fit in my fuse boxes

[@fu1r4]

What is "24 Hours Parking Mode"?

[@TheRugghead]

Clean install. I really wanna do this

[@JamiesGarage1]

thanks! This is your sign, get it done! LOL

[@shakesbjorklund4994]

Jaime sos I can’t figure out what to do , I keep getting a million different answeres I have an automatic 🤮 2005 bmw 330XI AWD I’m trying to figure out what transmission I need for a 6speed swap and if there’s a specific drive shaft I need I just wish it was as simple as googling my question and having a full parts list pop up lol , anyways if u can give me some guidance I would greatly appreciate it

[@cooly350]

Awesome 👌 what happened to the Q7 Just out of curiosity 😅

[@JamiesGarage1]

My wife had a SQ5 that we sold to get the Macan. She was ready for something new. Lets hope she doesn’t try to trade me in! 😆

[@toresomy]

This N4 dash cam lasted only 18 months on mine. My front cam stopped recording and Vantrue support sent me all the updates for the N4 dash cam but the front camera still not working. It’s very disappointing. Vantrue support doesn’t care about you.

[@DG.Trucker]

How does it work with full tinted windows

[@TheJeracuda]

I like the camera itself but the power supply I'm not a big fan of if I were to get one I'd want the power supply to be like the ones used in the vehicles where I work which just plug into the OBD port

[@alfonso2501]

If you live in the city & park on the streets, do you take down & hide the camera every nite?

[@jamesm.8392]

I most certainly would

[@mitya6568]

How is the parking mode at night?

[@Lothclutch]

I'm using Xiaomi 70mai Pro and it has all the features you're asking for on the video. You can connect it through your wifi and download it by the app. Plus, i don't know how to type through and i didn't get any help this time. That's a great step for me! I HATE ENGLISH

[@damionharris8776]

Thank you!

[@KVAR42]

Ty Sir!

[@Error-my2cr]

This man single-handedly made something so easy complicated

[@marcotavares390]

Best video quality: Viofo Best cloud features: BlackVue Best parking mode: Thinkware

[@blakesmith9039]

I've had two of those they skip and miss footage. Play them consecutively and you'll see

[@kyrkbymannen]

Love your car

[@giorgialeksandria6665]

what is the Color of your BMW's Rims?

[@Seadalgo]

Nice hitchers thumb

[@JamiesGarage1]

👍

[@andychaos]

Good stuff

[@marcelfermer5369]

Can you make out license plates at night ? That is one of the the 5 star questions. You didn't show anything about this. I read another review that talks about one sensor that is really good at this - the Sony STARVIS 2 sensor.