Complete Dash Cam Guide for Installation, Legality and Usage

Dash cams are quickly becoming one of the most valuable tools for drivers across the UK. More motorists now recognise how they improve road safety, provide accountability, and offer extra peace of mind. Whether you’re a private driver or managing a fleet of vans, having a dash cam can make a big difference.

Below, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about dash cams. You’ll learn where to put dash cams, what they are, why they’re important, and how to install them properly without breaking any laws. We’ll also cover expert advice, usage tips, and legal considerations to help you make confident, informed decisions.

What Is a Dash Cam?

A dash cam is a compact camera fitted inside your car that records video while you drive. These clever devices continuously capture footage, which can be vital during accidents or road disputes. Advanced models also include handy features like audio recording, GPS tracking, and parking surveillance.

Despite the name, the best place to mount a dash cam is usually not on your dashboard. Fitting it behind the rear-view mirror keeps the view of the road clear and the camera discreet. This position also helps avoid distracting you while driving.

Dash cams come in various types to suit different needs. Some offer front-only recording, while others add rear or cabin views for extra coverage. Choosing the right model depends on your driving habits and how much footage you want to capture.

Reasons to Install a Dash Cam

Dash cams act as unbiased witnesses when accidents or road disputes occur. If a collision happens, clear video evidence can help resolve insurance claims quickly and fairly. They also help reduce fraudulent claims while encouraging more responsible driving.

Capturing unexpected moments is another great reason to install a dash cam. From near misses to beautiful scenic drives, these devices record both memorable and critical events. Lending your car becomes less stressful too, as dash cams let you monitor how your vehicle is being used.

For business owners, dash cams offer even more value. They assist with fleet management by monitoring driver behaviour and reducing liability risks. In fact, studies reveal that 25% of drivers believe dash cams improve their driving habits, making roads safer for everyone.

Are Dash Cams Legal in the UK and Abroad?

Dash cams are completely legal to use across the UK. It’s important to ensure they don’t block your view or become a distraction while driving. You also need to inform passengers if they are being recorded to respect privacy laws.

Laws can be very different when travelling internationally with your dash cam. In Austria and Portugal, dash cams are banned outright, while in France and Belgium they are allowed only for private use. To avoid fines or issues, always check local regulations before driving abroad.

Following UK rules is simple but essential for safe and legal use. Make sure your dash cam does not intrude more than 40mm into your viewable area on the windscreen. Correct placement helps keep you compliant and ensures your footage can be used if needed.

Can Dash Cams Help Reduce Insurance Costs?

Dash cams can definitely be useful when it comes to your insurance. Although they don’t always lead to lower premiums, they make the claims process much quicker and help protect your no claims bonus. Some insurers may also offer discounts if a dash cam is professionally installed.

Even if discounts aren’t available, dash cams still offer valuable peace of mind. Video evidence can prove you were not at fault during an accident, avoiding expensive premium increases. Insurers appreciate this level of clarity, which can make your claim much easier to process.

Always check with your insurance provider about possible discounts. Every company has its own rules and may offer deals based on the dash cam model or installation method. Even without a discount, having reliable footage can make all the difference during a claim.

Will a Dash Cam Drain Your Car Battery?

Most dash cams are designed to use very little power while recording. When connected through your car’s cigarette lighter socket, they typically operate only when the engine is running. This helps limit any noticeable impact on your vehicle’s battery.

Parking mode is a useful feature but does draw some power when the car is off. Thankfully, many modern dash cams include built-in safeguards to prevent completely draining your battery. If you plan to use parking mode often, opting for professional installation with voltage protection is a smart choice.

Hardwiring your dash cam can offer the ideal solution for regular use. This setup ensures the dash cam powers up and shuts down with your vehicle, reducing unnecessary power use. It also hides cables neatly, giving your interior a clean and tidy look.

Understanding Parking Mode on Dash Cams

Parking mode adds valuable security by keeping your dash cam active even when your car is parked. It allows the camera to record if motion or an impact is detected nearby. This feature can help you catch vandals, careless drivers, or hit-and-run incidents when you’re not around.

There are different types of parking modes to suit various needs. Some dash cams only activate during impacts, while others record continuously or start when motion is sensed. Advanced models offer buffered recording, capturing moments just before and after any detected event.

To use parking mode properly, hardwiring is usually required. This setup gives your dash cam a steady power source without putting strain on your battery. Once activated, parking mode offers round-the-clock protection for your vehicle wherever you leave it.

Best Places to Mount Your Dash Cam

Knowing where to put dash cam devices correctly is essential for both safety and staying legal. The recommended spot is behind your rear-view mirror, where it can capture the road ahead without blocking your view. UK regulations allow only a 40mm intrusion into the area wiped by your windscreen wipers.

It’s also important to avoid placing your dash cam near airbags or key vehicle sensors. Mounting too close to these areas could interfere with essential safety systems and put you at risk. Always consult your vehicle manual to find out the safest and most suitable mounting spots.

If your rear-view mirror blocks the camera’s view, you may need to adjust slightly. Mounting the dash cam a little towards the passenger side can give you a clearer recording angle without affecting driver visibility. Choosing where to place dash cam units carefully ensures better footage and keeps you within legal limits.

Different Types of Dash Cam Mounts

Mounting options play a big role in how secure and flexible your dash cam setup will be. The two most common types are suction cup mounts and adhesive mounts, each with unique benefits. Suction cups offer easy adjustments, while adhesive mounts provide a more permanent and secure hold.

Suction mounts are ideal if you plan to move your dash cam between different vehicles. They allow quick removal and repositioning, which is helpful for multi-car households or rental vehicles. On the other hand, adhesive mounts stick firmly and offer better stability during long-term use.

For a cleaner and more professional look, many opt for a hardwired setup. This frees up your cigarette lighter socket and powers the dash cam automatically with your vehicle. Choosing the right type of mount helps ensure the best performance and hassle-free daily use.

How to Install a Dash Cam in Your Car

Installing a dash cam may sound a little technical, but it’s very manageable with the right approach. A properly installed dash cam ensures the best recording angles and avoids issues with the law or your safety. Let’s go step-by-step so you can get it right the first time.

Selecting a Mounting Position

Choosing where to position dash cam devices is the first and most important step. The best location is behind your rear-view mirror to keep the camera discreet and maximise road coverage. This setup ensures the dash cam records both lanes clearly without blocking your view.

You also need to make sure the camera does not intrude more than 40mm into the windscreen’s wiped area. Staying within this limit keeps you compliant with UK laws and avoids potential MOT issues. If needed, mount the dash cam slightly towards the passenger side to avoid obstructions.

Before sticking the camera in place, clean the mounting surface properly. This helps adhesive mounts or suction cups stick securely and prevents them falling while driving. Taking your time with placement ensures you get reliable and stable footage every trip.

Connecting to a Power Source and Routing Cables

You have two main power options: using the cigarette lighter socket or opting for hardwiring. The cigarette lighter is quicker and easier, though it may leave visible cables. Hardwiring gives a much neater finish and enables parking mode to work automatically.

When routing cables, always aim to keep them hidden and tidy. Tuck them behind the windscreen trim or dashboard edges to avoid clutter and distractions. Importantly, avoid running cables near airbags or sensitive vehicle components.

Professional installation is worth considering if you want the cleanest result. Installers can run the cables invisibly and make sure they don’t interfere with the car’s systems. A properly routed setup also reduces wear and tear, keeping everything secure long-term.

Installing Front and Rear Dash Cams Properly

If your dash cam system includes a rear camera, careful placement is just as important. The rear dash cam should be mounted at the top of the rear window to give a clear view of traffic. Make sure it doesn’t block your vision or interfere with the rear wipers.

Connecting the rear camera involves running a cable to the front unit. Use interior trim and vehicle panels to hide the cable and keep the setup tidy. This prevents loose wires from causing distractions or interfering with passengers and controls.

For dual camera setups, professional fitting is highly recommended. Installers will optimise camera angles and neatly secure all cables to ensure reliability. This guarantees a safe, clean, and fully functional installation that lasts.

FAQs

Where Should a Dashcam Be Placed?

The ideal place to mount your dash cam is right behind the rear-view mirror. This spot keeps the device hidden from your direct view while still capturing both lanes and any important road signs. Make sure it stays within the area wiped by the windscreen wipers for clear footage.

Where Can You Legally Put a Dash Cam?

UK law permits dash cams as long as they do not block your view while driving. The device should not stick out more than 40mm into the swept area of your windscreen. You should also avoid placing it near airbags or sensors to stay safe and compliant.

Will the Dash Cam Fail MOT?

A badly positioned dash cam could cause issues during your MOT test. If it obstructs your view or interferes with vehicle safety systems, it may lead to a failure. Proper placement behind the rear-view mirror usually avoids this problem entirely.

Can Police Ask to See Your Dashcam?

Yes, police can request dash cam footage if they believe it could help with an investigation. Offering the footage can make it easier to resolve incidents and clarify what happened. While refusal is possible, cooperating is often the smartest and most helpful option.