Trying to get your dash cam to keep an eye on your car even when you’re not around? The best way to achieve continuous, worry-free parking surveillance is by properly installing a Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit. This isn’t just about powering your dash cam. it’s about upgrading its capabilities to provide round-the-clock security and protecting your vehicle’s battery at the same time. those moments when you walk away from your car and wish you had an extra set of eyes? That’s exactly what this kit is designed for. We’re going to walk through everything you need to know about these kits, from what they do to how to get one installed like a pro, making sure your Rexing dash cam is always on guard.
What’s the Deal with Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kits?
So, what exactly is a Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit IHK? Think of it as the ultimate power upgrade for your dash cam. Instead of just plugging your dash cam into your car’s cigarette lighter socket, which usually only works when your car is on, a hardwire kit connects your camera directly to your car’s electrical system. This means your dash cam can stay powered and vigilant even when your engine is off.
The “Intelligent” part really shines here. These kits are designed to work seamlessly with your Rexing dash cam to unlock advanced features, particularly a premium parking mode that uses motion sensing to detect activity around your vehicle. It’s like having a dedicated security guard for your car, always ready to record if something happens. This setup gives you peace of mind, knowing that if someone bumps into your car, tries to break in, or even just gets a little too close, your dash cam will capture it.
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Why Go Hardwired? The Benefits Beyond Basic Charging
Let’s be real, nobody wants a dead car battery, and nobody wants to miss important footage. That’s where a hardwire kit, especially the Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit, makes a huge difference.
Continuous Parking Surveillance: Your Car’s Always Watching
This is arguably the biggest reason people opt for a hardwire kit. Imagine your car parked at the grocery store, in a busy lot, or even in your driveway overnight. With a standard cigarette lighter connection, your dash cam usually shuts off when your engine does. That leaves your car vulnerable. But with an Intelligent Hardwire Kit, your dash cam can operate 24/7. Rexing H2 4K Trail Camera: Your Ultimate Guide to Capturing Wildlife
The Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit uses a built-in motion sensor. So, if someone walks too close, a car parks a little too aggressively, or, heaven forbid, something more serious happens, the motion sensor kicks in. It “wakes up” your dash cam, and it starts recording automatically until the motion clears. This means you’ll have video evidence of any incidents, which can be invaluable for insurance claims or identifying culprits.
Battery Protection: Smart Power Management
One concern people often have about powering their dash cam continuously is draining the car battery. Rexing has thought of this! Their Intelligent Hardwire Kits come with automatic low voltage protection. What this means is that if your car battery’s voltage drops below a certain threshold typically around 11.4V for a 12V system or 23.5V for a 24V system, the hardwire kit will automatically cut power to the dash cam. This is super important because it leaves you with enough juice to start your car the next time you need it. You won’t be stranded with a dead battery just because your dash cam was too diligent.
Clean, Clutter-Free Installation
Let’s face it, cables snaking across your dashboard or dangling from your rearview mirror are just plain messy. Hardwiring eliminates this. The wires are neatly tucked away, usually behind your car’s trim panels and headliner, making for a much cleaner and more professional-looking setup. It makes your dash cam look like a built-in feature rather than an afterthought.
Free Up Your Power Port
By connecting directly to your fuse box, the hardwire kit frees up your car’s 12V accessory port that cigarette lighter plug. This is great because you can now use that port for other things, like charging your phone, powering a GPS device, or anything else you might need on your drive. No more choosing between your dash cam and your charger!
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Understanding Your Options: Rexing Intelligent vs. Smart Hardwire Kits
Rexing offers a couple of different hardwire kit options, and it’s good to know the distinction so you pick the right one for your needs and dash cam. The main players are the Intelligent Hardwire Kit and the Smart Hardwire Kit.
Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit IHK
The core feature of the Intelligent Hardwire Kit, as we’ve discussed, is its motion-sensing capability. It comes with an external motion sensor that you typically place near your dash cam on the windshield. This sensor is what triggers your dash cam to start recording when it detects movement in your vehicle’s vicinity while parked. It’s excellent for comprehensive surveillance and gives you a visual record of activity even when there’s no physical impact. The Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit Type-C is a popular variant, compatible with a wide range of Rexing dash cam models, including the R4, DT2, and M2 Max. There’s also a version with both Type-C and Mini USB ports for broader compatibility.
Rexing Smart Hardwire Kit SHK
While the Intelligent Hardwire Kit focuses on motion, the traditional Smart Hardwire Kit typically relies more on G-sensor detection sensing impacts or hard vibrations or an ACC Accessory detection feature. The ACC feature means your dash cam will automatically switch to parking mode when your engine turns off and then back to normal recording when the engine starts. Some newer “Smart Hardwire Kits” from Rexing, however, seem to be and might include 360° motion detection, effectively blurring the lines a bit and offering similar features to the IHK. Always check the specific product description to be sure what features are included.
Port Types: Type-C vs. Mini-USB
Just like your phones and other gadgets, dash cams use different charging ports. Rexing hardwire kits come with either a Type-C port or a Mini-USB port to connect to your dash cam. Make sure you check which type your Rexing dash cam uses before purchasing a hardwire kit. Many newer Rexing dash cams, like the R4, DT2, and M2 Max, utilize the Type-C port.
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Key Features That Make the Intelligent Hardwire Kit Shine
Let’s break down some of the awesome features you get with the Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit:
- 24/7 Intelligent Motion Monitoring: This is a must. Once your car is off, the kit’s motion sensor takes over. If it detects movement around your vehicle, the dash cam automatically powers on and records. This means constant protection without you having to lift a finger, which is perfect for capturing any incidents that might happen while your car is parked.
- Automatic Low Voltage Protection: We touched on this, but it’s worth reiterating. The kit monitors your car battery’s voltage and will shut off power to the dash cam if it gets too low e.g., 11.4V or 11.8V. This ensures you always have enough power to start your car. It’s a smart way to get continuous recording without the risk of a dead battery.
- Wide Vehicle Compatibility: The Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit is designed to work with most vehicles, accepting input voltages from 12V to 24V. This means whether you drive a standard car or a larger truck, this kit should be compatible.
- Universal Plug-and-Play for Rexing Dash Cams: Many of the Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kits especially the Type-C models are made to work with all Rexing dash cam models, including popular ones like the R4, DT2, M2 Max, R316 Series, RH2 Series, and even the CPDuo Multimedia Receiver. This broad compatibility makes it easy to upgrade your existing Rexing setup.
- Long Cable Length: Often coming with a cable around 10.5ft to 13ft long, these kits provide plenty of length for flexible routing, allowing you to tuck away wires neatly no matter where your fuse box is located.
Getting Ready for Installation: Your Toolkit
Before you start poking around in your car’s fuse box, it’s a good idea to gather everything you’ll need. Having the right tools makes the job much smoother and safer.
- Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit: Make sure it’s the right port type Type-C or Mini-USB for your dash cam!
- Circuit Tester/Multimeter: This is crucial for identifying which fuses are always-on constant power and which are ignition-switched. You can pick these up pretty cheaply at an auto parts store or online.
- Fuse Puller: Your car might have one in its fuse box, or your hardwire kit might include one. It helps safely remove fuses.
- Wire Crimper/Pliers: You’ll need these if you need to attach fuse taps or make any secure connections.
- Cable Routing Tool Trim Tool/Pry Tool: Often included with the hardwire kit, this plastic tool helps you gently pry open interior trim panels and tuck wires without damaging anything.
- Zip Ties & Electrical Tape: For securing cables and making sure everything looks neat and professional.
- Your Car’s Owner’s Manual: This is your best friend for locating your fuse boxes cars often have multiple! and understanding your specific fuse layout.
Step-by-Step Installation: Wiring Up Your Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit
Alright, let’s get your dash cam hardwired! While the exact steps can vary slightly depending on your car model, the general process remains the same. If you ever feel unsure, getting a professional to do it is always a solid option. Mastering Your Rexing Dash Cam with a USB-C Hardwire Kit
Step 1: Planning and Placement
First things first, decide where you want your dash cam and its motion sensor. Most people mount the dash cam behind the rearview mirror for an unobstructed view. Place the motion sensor a few inches away from the dash cam, making sure it isn’t blocked by anything like a thick sunshade or your rearview mirror. It’s a good idea to temporarily mount them to ensure you get the best angle before you commit.
Step 2: Locating Your Fuse Box
Your car likely has one or more fuse boxes. Common locations include under the dashboard driver’s or passenger side, in the glove compartment, or sometimes in the engine bay or even the trunk. Your car’s owner’s manual will pinpoint their exact locations and tell you how to open them. Once you find it, remove the cover.
Step 3: Identifying the Right Fuses
This is a critical step. You’ll need two types of power connections for your hardwire kit:
- Constant Power Always-On Fuse: This fuse provides power even when your car is turned off. This is what keeps your dash cam running in parking mode.
- Ignition-Switched ACC Fuse: This fuse only receives power when your car’s ignition is on or in accessory mode. This tells your dash cam when the car is actively driving.
Using your circuit tester, gently probe the metal contacts on the fuses in your fuse box. For the constant power fuse, you’re looking for one that lights up your tester or shows 12V on a multimeter even when the car is completely off. For the ignition-switched fuse, it should only light up when the car is on and go off when the car is off. Remember, always use a fuse that powers a non-essential component, like the radio or a spare fuse slot, not something critical like airbags.
Step 4: Making the Connections
Your Rexing hardwire kit will typically have three wires: Rexing hardwire kit install
- Yellow Wire: This usually connects to your constant always-on fuse.
- Red Wire: This typically connects to your ignition-switched ACC fuse.
- Black Wire: This is your ground wire. It needs to be connected to a solid, unpainted metal bolt or screw on your car’s chassis near the fuse box.
You’ll use add-a-fuse kits also known as fuse taps to make these connections. These clever devices allow you to tap into an existing fuse slot without cutting any wires. You insert your chosen original car fuse into one slot of the add-a-fuse, and then the fuse that comes with the hardwire kit or an appropriate sized one for your dash cam into the other slot. Then, you connect the hardwire kit’s red and yellow wires to these fuse taps and plug the taps into the correct fuse slots you identified. For the black ground wire, find a nearby metal bolt, loosen it, loop the ground wire around it, and tighten it securely.
Step 5: Routing and Concealing Wires
Once your connections are made, it’s time to make things tidy. Start from the dash cam and carefully tuck the power cable into the headliner the fabric lining the roof of your car. Use your trim tool to gently pull down the rubber seals along the A-pillar the pillar next to your windshield and tuck the wire down towards the fuse box. You can also route wires under the dashboard or kick panels. The goal is to make the wires invisible, keeping your car’s interior looking clean and professional. Use zip ties to secure any excess slack.
Step 6: Testing Your Setup
Before you button everything back up, test your dash cam!
- Start your car. Your dash cam should power on and begin recording normally.
- Turn off your car. Your dash cam should enter its parking mode if using the Intelligent Hardwire Kit, the motion sensor light should activate.
- Simulate motion near the motion sensor. The dash cam should light up and start recording.
Important Note: Rexing explicitly states DO NOT enable the parking monitor function in your dash cam’s settings once connected to an Intelligent Hardwire Kit. The hardwire kit’s motion sensing feature overrides the dash cam’s internal parking monitor, and enabling both can cause malfunctions.
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Troubleshooting Common Hardwire Kit Issues
Even with the best instructions, sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Here are a few common issues and what to check:
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Dash Cam Not Turning On:
- Check all connections: Are the red, yellow, and black wires securely connected to their respective fuses and ground?
- Fuse taps: Are the fuse taps inserted correctly into the fuse box? Are the fuses themselves both original and the kit’s intact?
- Port connection: Is the Type-C or Mini-USB cable securely plugged into your dash cam?
- Reversed wires: In some rare cases, users have found success by reversing the red and yellow wire connections if the camera doesn’t turn on or doesn’t enter parking mode correctly. Always use your circuit tester to confirm fuse types first, but if all else fails, this might be a last resort for troubleshooting after confirming everything else.
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Parking Mode Not Activating:
- Did you disable the dash cam’s internal parking mode? This is the most common mistake. The Intelligent Hardwire Kit handles parking mode, so ensure it’s off in your dash cam’s menu.
- Motion sensor placement: Is the external motion sensor correctly placed and not blocked?
- Constant power fuse: Double-check that your yellow wire is connected to a fuse that is always hot, even when the car is off. Use your circuit tester.
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Battery Drain:
- This is usually a sign that the low voltage protection isn’t working or that the kit isn’t connected correctly.
- Check constant power fuse: Ensure it’s correctly identified. If the hardwire kit isn’t detecting the car’s off state, it might not trigger the low voltage cut-off.
- Kit malfunction: While rare, a defective kit could lead to this. If all other checks fail, contact Rexing support.
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Pro Tips for a Seamless Hardwire Installation
You want your dash cam setup to be reliable and blend into your car’s interior. Here are a few insider tips:
- Take Your Time: Don’t rush it. Rushing leads to mistakes and frustration. Give yourself an hour or two, especially if it’s your first time.
- Double-Check Connections: Seriously, double-check everything. A loose wire is an unreliable wire. Tug gently on the fuse taps and ground wire to ensure they’re snug.
- Use Quality Fuse Taps: While your Rexing kit should come with good ones, if you need extras, invest in decent add-a-fuse kits. They’re much safer and more secure than just wrapping wires around fuse legs.
- Consider Professional Installation: If you’re not comfortable working with your car’s electrical system, or if your vehicle has a complex fuse box layout, there’s absolutely no shame in getting a professional to do it. Places like Best Buy often offer installation services for a reasonable fee. It saves you time, potential headaches, and ensures a correct, safe installation.
- Watch Installation Videos: RexingUSA’s YouTube channel has official installation videos for their hardwire kits, and seeing it done visually can make a huge difference.
Where to Grab Your Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit
Ready to enhance your dash cam’s capabilities? Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kits are widely available. You can usually find them directly on the RexingUSA website. Major electronics retailers like Best Buy and Walmart also stock them, making it convenient to pick one up. When shopping, just remember to confirm the port type Type-C or Mini-USB matches your dash cam.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between a Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit and a Smart Hardwire Kit?
The main difference lies in how they detect events for parking mode. The Intelligent Hardwire Kit primarily uses an external motion sensor to detect activity around your vehicle, turning the dash cam on to record when movement is spotted. A traditional Smart Hardwire Kit typically relies on G-sensor vibration/impact detection or an ACC feature that triggers recording when the engine is off. However, some newer Smart Hardwire Kits might also incorporate motion detection. The Ultimate Guide to the Rexing GT Wheel: Features, Performance, and Setup
Will a Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit drain my car’s battery?
No, not if installed correctly. Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kits feature built-in low voltage protection. This system automatically cuts power to your dash cam if your car battery’s voltage drops below a safe threshold usually 11.4V or 11.8V for a 12V system, ensuring you still have enough power to start your car.
Is the Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit compatible with all Rexing dash cams?
Many Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kits, especially the Type-C port models, are designed to be compatible with a wide range of Rexing dash cam models, including the R4, DT2, M2 Max, R316 Series, RH2 Series, and CPDuo Multimedia Receiver. However, it’s always best to check the product description for specific compatibility with your dash cam model and to ensure the port type Type-C or Mini-USB matches.
Do I need to enable parking mode in my dash cam settings when using the Intelligent Hardwire Kit?
No, you should actually disable the parking monitor function in your dash cam’s settings. The Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit’s external motion sensor and smart power management system override the dash cam’s internal parking mode. Enabling both can lead to conflicts and potential malfunctions. The kit will handle the parking surveillance automatically.
Can I install the Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit myself, or should I get professional help?
Many people successfully install these kits themselves by following the instructions and using basic tools. However, it does involve working with your car’s electrical system and locating specific fuses, which can be daunting if you’re not comfortable with it. If you have any doubts, or if your vehicle has a complex fuse box, it’s always recommended to seek professional installation from an authorized technician or a service like Best Buy’s Geek Squad.
What tools do I need for installation?
You’ll generally need the Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit itself, a circuit tester or multimeter to identify fuse types, a fuse puller, wire crimpers or pliers, a cable routing tool often included, zip ties, electrical tape, and your car’s owner’s manual. Rexing V1 SD Card Format: Your Ultimate Guide for Crystal Clear Recordings
What is the function of the red, yellow, and black wires on the hardwire kit?
Typically, the yellow wire connects to a constant always-on fuse in your fuse box, which provides power for parking mode when the car is off. The red wire connects to an ignition-switched ACC fuse, which only has power when your car is on, signaling when to record in driving mode. The black wire is the ground wire and connects to a solid, unpainted metal bolt on your car’s chassis.
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