Thinking about getting a Rexing hardwire kit for your dash cam? You’re definitely on the right track! It’s one of those upgrades that truly makes a difference in how your dash cam performs and how tidy your car’s interior looks. Instead of fumbling with cigarette lighter adapters or dealing with messy cables, hardwiring gives your dash cam a dedicated, constant power source. This means it can keep an eye on things even when your car is off, giving you peace of mind with features like parking mode. And if you’re wondering where to grab one, places like Best Buy often have Rexing hardwire kits available, sometimes even offering professional installation services which can be a huge help if you’re not keen on doing it yourself. Ultimately, hardwiring your Rexing dash cam is a smart move for enhanced security and a cleaner setup, ensuring your device is always ready to capture what matters.
You’ve probably seen those dash cam videos online – everything from hilarious mishaps to crucial accident evidence. And if you’ve got a Rexing dash cam, you know how important it is to have it powered up and ready to record when you need it most. But let’s be real, constantly plugging and unplugging it from your car’s cigarette lighter, or having a cable dangling across your dashboard, isn’t exactly ideal. That’s where a Rexing hardwire kit comes in.
It’s like giving your dash cam its own secret power line, keeping it neatly tucked away and running smoothly. Trust me, once you go hardwire, you won’t want to go back.
What is a Dash Cam Hardwire Kit and Why You Need One?
Alright, let’s break it down. A dash cam hardwire kit is essentially a special cable set that directly connects your dash cam to your car’s electrical system, usually through the fuse box. Think of it as bypassing the traditional cigarette lighter socket entirely. Instead, your dash cam draws power straight from your vehicle, allowing for continuous and uninterrupted operation.
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But why go through the “trouble” of hardwiring? Here’s why it’s a must:
- 24/7 Parking Mode: This is a big one. Without hardwiring, most dash cams only record when your car is on. But what happens when you’re parked and someone bumps your car or tries to mess with it? Hardwiring enables your dash cam to stay powered even when the engine is off, activating parking mode to record any incidents like hit-and-runs or vandalism. Rexing’s intelligent hardwire kits, for instance, often use a G-sensor to detect impacts and automatically start recording, or offer time-lapse options for extended surveillance with less data.
- Clean, Professional Setup: Nobody likes a cluttered dashboard. Hardwiring means all those unsightly cables are hidden behind your car’s panels and trim, giving your interior a super clean and organized look. It’s like the dash cam just belongs there.
- Frees Up Your 12V Outlet: That cigarette lighter port? It’s often prime real estate for charging your phone, running a GPS, or powering other gadgets. Hardwiring your dash cam keeps that valuable outlet free for whatever else you need.
- Prevents Battery Drain: This is a common concern, but modern hardwire kits, especially the intelligent ones from Rexing, come with built-in low voltage protection. This smart feature automatically cuts off power to the dash cam if your car’s battery voltage drops below a certain threshold often around 11.6V to 11.8V for 12V vehicles, ensuring you’ll always have enough juice to start your car.
- Improved Reliability and Safety: A direct connection to your car’s electrical system provides a more stable and reliable power source, which means less chance of power fluctuations that can cause your dash cam to malfunction. Plus, no dangling cords means no potential interference with your driving.
In short, a hardwire kit transforms your dash cam from a basic recording device into a comprehensive, always-on security system for your vehicle.
Different Flavors of Rexing Hardwire Kits
Rexing offers a few types of hardwire kits, and knowing the difference can help you pick the right one for your setup. The most common distinctions are by connector type and features. Mastering Your Rexing Dash Cam with a USB-C Hardwire Kit
Rexing Smart/Intelligent Hardwire Kits
Many Rexing dash cams are compatible with their “Smart” or “Intelligent” hardwire kits. These are usually 3-wire kits, which means they have three connections:
- Constant Power B+: This wire connects to a fuse that’s always on, even when your car is off. This is what keeps your dash cam powered for parking mode.
- Accessory Power ACC/Switched: This wire connects to a fuse that only gets power when your car’s ignition is on or in accessory mode. This tells the dash cam when your car is running.
- Ground: This wire connects to a metal bolt or screw on your car’s chassis, providing a safe return path for the electrical current.
These intelligent kits are designed to override the dash cam’s internal parking monitor settings, managing power and detecting impacts or motion automatically. This is super handy because it simplifies the dash cam’s operation. you just connect the kit, and it handles the rest. Features like G-sensor activation and energy-saving modes are often baked right into the kit.
Connector Types: Mini-USB vs. Type-C
Rexing dash cams, like many other electronics, use different types of USB ports for power. You’ll primarily find:
- Mini-USB Hardwire Kits: These are for older or specific Rexing dash cam models that use a Mini-USB port for power. The Rexing Smart Hardwire Kit Mini-USB Port, for example, is compatible with many of their supercapacitor models like the V1-4K, V1P-4K, V3 Basic, and S1 Series.
- Type-C Hardwire Kits: Newer Rexing dash cams, like the R4, DT2, and M2 Max, often use a USB-C port. For these, you’ll need a Rexing Smart Hardwire Kit with a Type-C Port. These typically offer the same great features as their Mini-USB counterparts, just with the updated connector.
Always double-check your specific Rexing dash cam model’s user manual or product page to ensure you’re getting the correct hardwire kit. Using the wrong connector simply won’t work.
OBD Hardwire Kits: An Alternative Approach
Rexing also offers OBD hardwire kits. These are a bit different because they plug directly into your car’s On-Board Diagnostics OBD-II port. The main appeal here is ease of installation – theoretically, it’s a simple plug-and-play solution, avoiding the need to mess with your car’s fuse box. Rexing hardwire kit install
However, there’s a catch. While some OBD kits are truly “plug and play,” others, even from Rexing, might still require you to tap into a fuse for the ACC power wire, which can defeat the purpose of an “easy” OBD install. Also, it’s important to remember that plugging into the OBD port might interfere with other OBD-II devices you use, like diagnostic scanners. Rexing offers OBD hardwire kits for both Mini-USB and Type-C dash cams, so again, check compatibility for your model. For example, the Rexing OBD Smart Hardwire Kit with a 90-degree Type-C port is compatible with all Rexing Type-C dash cams.
Rexing Hardwire Kit: Where to Buy and why Best Buy is a great option
When you’re ready to pick up a Rexing hardwire kit, you’ve got a few solid options, but if you’re looking for a good balance of availability, reliability, and potential support, Best Buy often stands out.
You can typically find Rexing hardwire kits directly on the Rexing USA website. This is usually a safe bet, as you’re getting the genuine product and can often find specific compatibility information for your dash cam model.
However, for many, a trip to a local retailer like Best Buy is super convenient. They often carry a selection of Rexing products, including hardwire kits for various dash cam models. What’s really cool about Best Buy is that they frequently get positive customer feedback about the easy installation process when they purchase the Smart Hardwire Kit. Many customers have highlighted how straightforward and professional the installation was, making it a reliable and user-friendly choice for their Rexing dash cams. Plus, buying from a reputable retailer like Best Buy means you usually have good return policies and customer service if you run into any issues. Rexing Trail Camera Manual: Your Ultimate Guide to Setting Up and Capturing Incredible Footage
Beyond that, you might also find Rexing hardwire kits on major online marketplaces like Amazon or even eBay. Just be sure to always check the seller’s reputation and product reviews to make sure you’re getting an authentic kit that’s compatible with your specific Rexing dash cam model.
And here’s a pro tip: if the idea of poking around your car’s fuse box makes you a little nervous, Best Buy often offers professional installation services. Having a trained technician install your hardwire kit can save you time and ensure everything is connected correctly, giving you complete peace of mind. It’s an investment, but for many, it’s well worth it to avoid any headaches.
Getting Ready: What You’ll Need for a Smooth Hardwire Installation
you’ve got your Rexing hardwire kit, and you’re ready to get your dash cam properly powered. Before you start tearing into your car’s interior, gathering a few essential tools will make the process a lot smoother. You don’t need a full mechanic’s garage, but these items are definitely your friends: Rexing gps module
- Your Rexing Hardwire Kit: Obviously! Make sure it’s the right one Mini-USB or Type-C for your dash cam.
- Fuse Tap Add-a-Circuit: This is absolutely crucial. Your hardwire kit will have wires that need to connect to your car’s fuse box, and a fuse tap allows you to safely piggyback onto an existing fuse without cutting or splicing wires. Rexing kits often come with a 15A mini-type fuse, but you might need to connect your own fuse adapter if your car uses different fuse types. You’ll likely need two of these – one for constant power and one for accessory power.
- Fuse Puller: Sometimes fuses are stubborn. This little tool makes removing and inserting fuses much easier.
- Multimeter or Circuit Tester: This is your best friend for identifying which fuses are constant always on and which are accessory switched with the ignition. You really don’t want to guess here!
- Trim Removal Tools Plastic Pry Tools: These plastic tools are invaluable for safely prying open interior panels and tucking away wires without scratching or damaging your car’s trim.
- Wire Strippers/Crimpers: Your hardwire kit will likely have open-ended wires for the fuse taps, and you’ll need to strip a small amount of insulation and crimp them securely to the fuse taps.
- Electrical Tape/Zip Ties: For securing connections, insulating bare wires though fuse taps minimize this, and keeping your routed cables neat and tidy.
- Flashlight or Headlamp: Car interiors can be dark, especially under the dash. A good light source is a must.
- Your Car’s Owner’s Manual: This will help you locate your fuse boxes and identify what each fuse controls. It’s super helpful for finding safe fuses to tap into.
- Safety Glasses: Just in case a stray wire or tool tries to make a break for it.
- Optional: Portable Battery Pack for Dash Cam: If you’re using a supercapacitor-based dash cam which many Rexing models are, you might want to fully charge it indoors via a USB wall adapter overnight before installation. Some users reported that their dash cam needed a good charge for the parking monitor to function correctly after hardwiring.
Having these tools on hand will make your Rexing hardwire kit install much less stressful and a lot more successful.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install Your Rexing Hardwire Kit
Alright, let’s get down to business! Installing a Rexing hardwire kit might seem a bit intimidating at first, but if you take it step-by-step, it’s totally doable. Remember, this is a general guide, so always refer to your specific Rexing hardwire kit instructions and your car’s owner’s manual.
Step 1: Planning and Preparation
- Mount Your Dash Cam: First things first, mount your Rexing dash cam where you want it on your windshield. Typically, this is behind your rearview mirror to keep it out of your line of sight. Make sure it has a clear view and that you can still access it.
- Locate Your Fuse Box: Your car’s fuse box is usually located in one of a few places: under the dashboard driver’s or passenger’s side, in the glove compartment, or under the hood. Consult your car’s owner’s manual to find its exact location.
- Identify Power Sources: This is where your multimeter or circuit tester comes in. You need to find two types of fuses:
- Constant Power B+: This fuse should always have power, even when the car is off. This is for your hardwire kit’s yellow wire. Good candidates are fuses for interior lights, power seats if they work with the car off, or hazard lights.
- Accessory Power ACC/Switched: This fuse should only have power when your car’s ignition is on or in accessory mode and turn off when the car is off. This is for your hardwire kit’s red wire. Fuses for your radio, wipers, or heated seats often work.
- Find a Ground Point: Look for an unpainted metal bolt or screw near the fuse box that’s directly connected to the car’s chassis. This is where you’ll attach the hardwire kit’s black wire.
Step 2: Preparing the Fuse Connections
- Choose Fuse Taps: Your Rexing hardwire kit will likely come with standard fuse taps or adapters, or you might need to get compatible add-a-circuit fuse holders for your car’s specific fuse type e.g., ATO, Mini, Micro2.
- Install Fuses into Fuse Taps: Each fuse tap has two slots for fuses.
- The bottom slot closer to the blade is for the original fuse you pulled from your car.
- The top slot is for a new, lower-amp fuse usually 2A or 3A, often provided with the hardwire kit or dash cam that protects the dash cam circuit.
- Connect Hardwire Wires to Fuse Taps: The yellow wire constant power from your hardwire kit gets crimped onto one fuse tap, and the red wire accessory power gets crimped onto the other.
Step 3: Making the Connections
- Connect Constant Power Yellow Wire: Using your fuse puller, carefully remove the constant power fuse you identified. Insert the fuse tap with both fuses installed into that empty fuse slot.
- Connect Accessory Power Red Wire: Repeat the process for the accessory power fuse, inserting the second fuse tap into that slot.
- Connect Ground Black Wire: Loosen the metal bolt or screw you identified for your ground point. Slip the O-ring terminal of the hardwire kit’s black wire under the bolt head and tighten it securely. Make sure it’s a tight, metal-on-metal connection.
- Connect to Dash Cam: Plug the hardwire kit’s USB connector Mini-USB or Type-C into your Rexing dash cam’s power port.
Step 4: Testing the Installation
- Turn on Your Car: Start your vehicle. Your Rexing dash cam should power on and begin recording.
- Turn Off Your Car: Turn off the engine and remove the key. Your dash cam should typically switch into parking mode you might see an indicator light or hear a voice prompt, depending on your model and kit. If it has a motion sensor, test it by tapping the camera gently or moving around the car to simulate an impact.
- Check Low Voltage Cut-off: While you can’t easily test the low voltage cut-off without draining your battery, ensure that your intelligent hardwire kit is functioning correctly for parking mode. The kit should manage the power, and you usually do not enable the parking monitor function in the dash cam’s settings directly if using an intelligent hardwire kit, as the kit itself overrides it.
Step 5: Routing and Hiding Wires
- Route the Cables Neatly: Once you’ve confirmed everything works, it’s time to hide those wires! Use your trim removal tools to gently pry open gaps in your car’s headliner, A-pillar trim, and dashboard panels. Carefully tuck the hardwire cable along these edges, pushing it into the crevices.
- Secure Excess Wire: Any excess wire can be bundled and secured with zip ties near the fuse box, ensuring it doesn’t rattle or get in the way.
- Reassemble Trim: Snap all the trim pieces back into place. Take your time to ensure everything fits snugly.
By following these steps, you’ll have your Rexing intelligent hardwire kit installation looking factory-fresh and your dash cam running like a pro.
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Troubleshooting Common Hardwire Kit Issues
Even with the best instructions, sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. If you’ve just completed your Rexing hardwire kit installation and something feels off, don’t sweat it. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:
Issue 1: Dash Cam Stays On/Off Incorrectly or Parking Mode Not Working
- Problem: Your dash cam is always on, even when the car is off, or it turns off completely when the car is off and doesn’t enter parking mode. Another common one: a message like “To use parking monitor, please make sure Smart Hardwire Kit is connected,” even when it is.
- Possible Causes:
- Reversed ACC and B+ Wires: This is probably the most frequent culprit. The red wire ACC should go to a switched fuse, and the yellow wire B+ to a constant power fuse. If they’re swapped, the dash cam will behave incorrectly. Double-check with your multimeter.
- Incorrect Fuse Selection: You might have chosen a fuse that isn’t truly constant or switched as expected. Refer to your car’s manual and use your multimeter to re-verify your chosen fuses.
- Dash Cam Parking Mode Setting: For Rexing’s intelligent hardwire kits, you generally do NOT enable the parking monitor function in the dash cam’s internal settings. The intelligent kit itself handles the parking mode activation. Enabling it on the camera can cause conflicts or prevent the kit from working properly.
- Solution:
- Use your multimeter to re-test the fuses you tapped. Ensure the constant fuse has power with the car off and on, and the accessory fuse only has power when the car is on.
- If you suspect the wires are reversed, try swapping the connections for the red and yellow wires to their respective fuse taps.
- Check your dash cam’s settings and disable any internal parking monitor features if you’re using a Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit. The kit takes over this function.
Issue 2: Battery Drain Concerns
- Problem: You’re worried the hardwired dash cam will drain your car battery, or perhaps it already has.
- Low Voltage Protection Not Functioning: While Rexing hardwire kits have low voltage protection, there’s always a slim chance of a defect or an incorrect installation.
- Very Old/Weak Battery: If your car battery is already on its last legs, even the best low voltage protection might not be enough for extended parking mode sessions.
- Incorrect Low Voltage Cut-off Setting if adjustable: Some advanced kits might have adjustable voltage cut-offs. If set too low, it could allow the battery to drain more than desired.
- Verify your Rexing hardwire kit’s specifications for its low voltage cut-off e.g., 11.6V or 11.8V for 12V systems.
- If your car battery is old, consider getting it tested or replaced. A healthy battery is crucial for reliable parking mode.
- For extremely long parking periods, especially in very cold weather which can reduce battery efficiency, you might consider turning off parking mode if your dash cam allows, or periodically starting your car to recharge the battery.
Issue 3: Dash Cam Doesn’t Turn On At All
- Problem: After installation, your Rexing dash cam shows no signs of life.
- Blown Fuse: When installing, it’s possible to accidentally blow a fuse in your car or the one on the fuse tap itself.
- Loose Ground Connection: A poor ground connection means the circuit isn’t complete, and no power will flow.
- Depleted Super-capacitor: Many Rexing dash cams use supercapacitors instead of traditional batteries. If the dash cam has been unpowered for a long time, the supercapacitor might be completely drained and need an extended charge e.g., driving for 90 minutes or charging indoors overnight to fully power up and function.
- Incorrect USB Port: Ensure you’re plugging the hardwire kit into the correct power input port on your dash cam, not a data port.
- Check all fuses you’ve tapped into, as well as the fuse on the hardwire kit itself. Replace any blown fuses.
- Wiggle the ground wire connection to ensure it’s tight and making good contact with bare metal.
- If your dash cam uses a supercapacitor, try driving your car for an extended period, or if safe to do so connect the dash cam to a USB wall charger with a compatible cable overnight.
- Double-check that the hardwire kit’s connector is firmly seated in the correct power input on the dash cam.
If you’re still scratching your head after these steps, it might be time to reach out to Rexing’s customer support. They’re usually pretty good about helping troubleshoot specific issues with their kits and dash cams.
Is a Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit Right for You?
So, after all this talk about Rexing hardwire kits, you might be wondering if it’s truly the right move for your dash cam setup. My take? If you’ve invested in a quality Rexing dash cam, then a hardwire kit is almost a no-brainer to unlock its full potential.
The biggest win is definitely the 24/7 parking surveillance. Knowing your car is protected even when you’re away, with features like impact detection or time-lapse recording, offers a significant boost in security. Think about those minor fender benders in parking lots, or even more serious vandalism – having that footage can be invaluable for insurance claims or identifying culprits. It’s truly about peace of mind. Rexing V1 SD Card Format: Your Ultimate Guide for Crystal Clear Recordings
Then there’s the aesthetic advantage. A clean, wire-free dashboard just looks better and makes for a safer driving environment without any dangling cables distracting you. And freeing up your car’s 12V outlet? That’s just practical.
Now, there’s the installation part. If you’re comfortable with a few basic tools and following instructions, a DIY Rexing hardwire kit install is totally achievable. Many kits, including Rexing’s, come with all the necessary components like fuse taps. But if you’re not keen on messing with your car’s electrical system, that’s perfectly fine! As we discussed, places like Best Buy offer professional installation, which can be a great option for a hassle-free setup.
Sure, the upfront cost of the hardwire kit and potential installation might be a bit more than just using the cigarette lighter, but the added functionality, security, and neatness it brings are usually well worth the investment. It makes your Rexing dash cam a truly integrated and effective part of your vehicle’s security system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dash cam hardwire kit for?
A dash cam hardwire kit connects your dash cam directly to your car’s electrical system, typically the fuse box, to provide continuous power. This allows the dash cam to operate even when the vehicle is off, enabling features like 24/7 parking mode, and also results in a cleaner installation with no visible wires. Rexing Companies: The Logistics Powerhouse
What’s the difference between a Rexing Smart Hardwire Kit and an Intelligent Hardwire Kit?
The terms “Smart” and “Intelligent” are often used interchangeably by Rexing for their hardwire kits. Both typically refer to kits that offer advanced features like G-sensor based impact detection, energy-saving parking modes such as time-lapse recording, and built-in low voltage protection to prevent your car battery from draining. These kits usually override the dash cam’s internal parking monitor settings.
Will a Rexing hardwire kit drain my car’s battery?
Rexing hardwire kits, especially the intelligent and smart versions, come with built-in low voltage protection. This feature automatically cuts off power to the dash cam if your car’s battery voltage drops below a preset level e.g., 11.6V or 11.8V for a 12V vehicle. This ensures there’s enough power left to start your car.
Can I install the Rexing hardwire kit myself, or should I get it professionally installed?
Many people successfully install Rexing hardwire kits themselves. The process involves identifying constant and accessory fuses, grounding a wire, and routing cables. If you’re comfortable working with your car’s fuse box and basic wiring, it’s definitely a DIY project. However, if you’re unsure or prefer a guaranteed clean and correct installation, professional installation services, often available at retailers like Best Buy, are a great option.
What tools do I need for a Rexing hardwire kit install?
You’ll typically need your Rexing hardwire kit with appropriate fuse taps, a multimeter or circuit tester to identify fuses, a fuse puller, plastic trim removal tools to hide wires, wire strippers/crimpers, electrical tape, zip ties, and your car’s owner’s manual.
How do I enable parking mode after installing a Rexing intelligent hardwire kit?
For Rexing’s intelligent hardwire kits, you usually do not need to enable the parking monitor function within the dash cam’s settings. The intelligent hardwire kit itself handles the parking mode activation and detection e.g., via a G-sensor or motion detection once the vehicle is powered off. Enabling the parking monitor feature on the dash cam itself might cause conflicts or malfunction. Can you add beadlocks to any wheel
What’s the difference between a Mini-USB and Type-C Rexing hardwire kit?
The difference is the type of connector that plugs into your dash cam. Mini-USB kits are for older or specific Rexing dash cam models, while Type-C kits are for newer models that use a USB-C power port. Always check your specific Rexing dash cam’s compatibility to ensure you purchase the correct hardwire kit.
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