Ready to boost your car’s safety and get some peace of mind on the road? Getting your Rexing rear camera perfectly mounted is all about picking the right spot, planning your cable route like a pro, and securing everything so it stays put, no matter what your drive throws at it. A well-installed rear camera isn’t just a fancy gadget. it’s a critical witness if anything unexpected happens behind you, whether it’s a fender bender or something more serious.
world, where every drive can bring surprises, a dash cam with a rear camera isn’t just a luxury, it’s becoming a necessity for many of us. Think about it: front-facing cameras are great, but what happens if someone backs into you at a parking lot or rear-ends you on the highway? A rear camera catches all that crucial evidence, potentially saving you a huge headache with insurance claims and disputes. Plus, it offers an extra layer of security when your car is parked, documenting any bumps or vandalism that might occur. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to install and optimize your Rexing rear camera, making sure you’re covered from every angle.
Understanding Your Rexing Rear Camera System
Before you even think about sticky pads or routing cables, it’s good to get a feel for what you’re working with. Rexing dash cams, especially popular models like the V1P or V5, typically come as dual-channel systems, meaning you get a front camera and a separate rear camera.
What’s in the Box? Camera, Cable, Mounts
When you unbox your Rexing dash cam system, you’ll usually find a few key components for the rear camera setup:
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- The Rear Camera Unit: This is often smaller and more discreet than the front camera, sometimes designed to be waterproof if it’s meant for exterior mounting.
- The Connection Cable: This long cable is what links your rear camera to the main front dash cam unit. Its length is super important, especially if you have a larger vehicle.
- Adhesive Mounts: Most Rexing rear cameras come with strong adhesive pads, often 3M, for secure attachment to your window.
Knowing these pieces helps you visualize the installation process.
Why a Rear Camera is a Game-Changer Safety, Evidence
Seriously, if you’ve been on the fence about a rear dash cam, it’s a huge benefit. Here’s why:
- Evidence for Rear-End Collisions: This is probably the biggest reason. Rear-end accidents are common, and having footage can be the difference between a smooth insurance claim and a he-said-she-said nightmare. The rear cam provides undeniable proof of what happened.
- Parking Protection: Many dash cams have a parking mode. With a rear camera, your vehicle is monitored from both ends even when you’re away. This means if someone dings your bumper or causes damage in a parking lot, you’ve got a better chance of catching them.
- Deterring Road Rage and Fraud: Ever had someone drive aggressively behind you? Sometimes, just the sight of a dash cam can make tailgaters back off. Plus, it helps protect you from staged accidents and insurance fraud, which, sadly, are on the rise.
- Comprehensive Coverage: A wide-view front-facing dash cam only captures so much. Adding a rear camera gives you a more complete picture, often capturing up to 170 degrees of the road behind you, providing footage of everything happening around your vehicle.
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Choosing the Right Spot: Where to Mount Your Rexing Rear Camera
Picking the perfect spot for your rear camera is crucial for clear footage and a clean setup. It’s not just about sticking it anywhere. you want to optimize its view and ensure it doesn’t get in your way.
Inside vs. Outside Mounting: Pros and Cons
Most Rexing rear cameras are designed for interior mounting, typically on the rear windshield.
- Inside Mounting Pros: Generally easier to install, protected from weather and theft, and the cables are usually designed for this.
- Inside Mounting Cons: Can be affected by rear window tint, defroster lines, or glare. Visibility might be slightly reduced compared to an external mount.
Some Rexing models, like the V5, can be paired with a waterproof rear camera option, which implies exterior mounting.
- Outside Mounting Pros: Offers the clearest, unobstructed view, great for vehicles with limited rear window visibility. Can double as a backup camera with the right wiring.
- Outside Mounting Cons: More complex installation, exposes the camera to the elements though waterproof, and might be more susceptible to dirt and damage.
For most Rexing dual-channel systems, sticking with an inside mount is the most common and recommended approach.
Ideal Locations for Different Vehicles Sedans, SUVs, Trucks, RVs
The “best” spot changes a bit depending on your vehicle type: Mastering the Rexing R4 Hardwire Kit: Your Ultimate Installation Guide
- Sedans and Coupes: The most common and recommended location is inside the rear windshield, near the top center. This gives it a clear, wide view of the road behind you. Make sure it avoids the rear defroster grid lines, as these can obscure the view.
- SUVs, Hatchbacks, and Crossovers: These vehicles often have a liftgate that moves. If you mount the camera directly on the rear window, you’ll need to ensure there’s enough slack in the cable for when the liftgate opens and closes. Many folks opt to route the cable through the rubber hoses between the chassis and the liftgate for a super neat and professional look, hiding it under any interior trim. Again, top center is usually the sweet spot.
- Trucks: Similar to SUVs, if your truck has a rear window that opens or slides, you’ll need to work around that. Mounting it high on the rear window gives you good coverage of the road, the bed, and even the sides of the bed, which is great for capturing incidents like impacts to your tailgate.
- RVs and Larger Vehicles: These usually require longer extension cables more on that later!. The principle remains: high and centered on the rear for the best field of view.
Factors to Consider Visibility, Cable Length, Aesthetics, Legality
- Clear Visibility: This is non-negotiable. The camera needs an unobstructed view of the road. Test the live view on your dash cam’s screen or app to confirm the angle covers everything you want, without being blocked by headrests, sunshades, or defroster lines.
- Cable Length: Rexing provides a standard cable, but for larger vehicles, you might need a
rexing rear camera extension cable. Make sure you measure and get one that’s long enough. Running out of cable halfway through is a real bummer. - Aesthetics and Discreetness: Most people prefer a clean look with no dangling wires. This means carefully tucking cables under headliners and trim. Placing the camera discreetly, often behind the rearview mirror for the front cam and high on the rear window for the back, also helps it blend in and avoid attracting unwanted attention.
- Legality: While generally legal, laws about dash cam placement can vary by region. Always make sure your camera placement doesn’t obstruct your view of the road. Mounting it near the top center of the rear windshield is usually compliant.
Essential Tools and Supplies for a Smooth Installation
you’ve picked your ideal spot. Now, let’s talk about getting ready. Having the right tools makes a world of difference, turning a potentially frustrating task into a fairly simple one.
What You’ll Definitely Need
- Rexing Rear Camera Kit: Obviously, your camera and its included cable and mounts!
- Alcohol Wipes or Isopropyl Alcohol with a Microfiber Cloth: Crucial for cleaning the mounting surface. A clean surface ensures the adhesive sticks properly and stays put.
- Plastic Trim Removal Tools: These are your best friends for tucking cables. They let you pry open trim panels and headliners without scratching your car’s interior. You can find cheap sets online.
- Cable Clips or Zip Ties: If there are sections where you can’t tuck the cable, these help keep it tidy and out of the way.
- Small Screwdriver Phillips or Flathead: Might be needed for some mounts or to help pry trim.
Nice-to-Have Items for a Professional Finish
- Heat Gun or Hair Dryer: If you’re installing in colder weather, a little warmth on the adhesive pad and the window can help the mount stick better.
- Fishtape or Stiff Wire: For those extra tricky cable runs through tight spaces, especially if you’re going through a liftgate hose.
- Power Bank or Portable Power Supply: Handy for testing the camera and cable connections before you finalize all your routing, just to make sure everything is working as expected.
Step-by-Step Rexing Rear Camera Installation Guide
Alright, let’s get this thing installed! This is where the magic happens. We’ll break it down into manageable steps.
Planning Your Cable Route
This is probably the most critical part, especially for the rexing rear camera cable. A good plan means less headache and a cleaner look. Mastering Your Rexing R316 Dash Cam: The Ultimate User Guide (And Why It’s Your Best Road Buddy!)
- Start at the Camera: It often helps to start running the wire from the rear camera’s location and work your way forward to the main dash cam unit.
- Top-Down Approach: For rear windshield mounting, most people run the cable from the camera along the top edge of the rear window, tucking it into the headliner.
- Side to Front: From the rear headliner, guide the cable down one of the C-pillars the back pillars of your car or along the roofline to one side. Then, run it along the side of the car, usually under the door sills, to the front.
- Connecting to the Front Dash Cam: Bring the cable up the A-pillar the front pillar near your windshield and along the front headliner, finally connecting it to the rear camera port on your main Rexing dash cam unit, which is typically mounted near your rearview mirror.
Pro Tip: Always leave a little slack in the cable, especially if you have a liftgate or if you might need to adjust the camera in the future. You don’t want it pulled taut.
Preparing the Mounting Surface
Cleanliness is next to godliness when it comes to adhesive mounts.
- Clean the Spot: Use an alcohol wipe or isopropyl alcohol on a microfiber cloth to thoroughly clean the area on your rear windshield where you plan to mount the camera. This removes any dirt, grease, or window cleaner residue that could weaken the adhesive. Let it dry completely.
- Apply Electrostatic Film Optional but Recommended: Some Rexing kits come with a small electrostatic film. This clear sticker goes on the windshield first, and then your adhesive mount goes on top of it. It creates a buffer, making it easier to remove the mount later without leaving sticky residue directly on your glass.
Securing the Camera Mount
- Peel and Stick: Carefully peel the backing off the 3M adhesive on the camera mount.
- Position and Press: Align the mount in your chosen spot remembering to avoid defroster lines! and firmly press it onto the cleaned surface for at least 30 seconds.
- Let it Cure: This is important! Rexing often recommends waiting at least 20 minutes some suggest longer, even up to 24 hours after applying the mount before attaching the camera itself. This allows the adhesive to properly bond to the glass, preventing it from falling off later.
Routing the Cable
Once the mount is secure, it’s time for the cable.
- Tuck, Tuck, Tuck: Use your plastic trim removal tool to gently push the
rexing rear camera cableunder the headliner, along the C-pillar, under the door sills, and up the A-pillar to the front dash cam. Take your time here. a neat job looks much better and prevents snags. - Liftgate Considerations: If you have an SUV or hatchback with a liftgate, consider routing the cable through the rubber conduit that carries other wires to the liftgate. This makes for a truly hidden and professional installation. You might need a fishtape or stiff wire to feed the cable through.
- Secure Excess Cable: If you have any excess cable at the front, carefully coil it and secure it with zip ties or the included cable clips, tucking it away neatly, perhaps behind the glove box or under the dash.
Connecting the Camera and Testing
Almost there!
- Attach the Camera: After the adhesive has had time to cure, slide or clip your Rexing rear camera onto its mount.
- Plug it In: Connect the rear camera cable to the rear camera port on your main Rexing dash cam unit.
- Power On and Test: Power up your front dash cam usually by plugging it into your car’s 12V outlet or hardwire kit and check the display. Most Rexing dual cams allow you to switch views or show both simultaneously. Confirm that the rear camera is displaying a clear image and recording correctly. Adjust the angle if needed.
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Troubleshooting Common Rexing Rear Camera Issues
Even with the best intentions, sometimes things don’t go perfectly. If your rexing rear camera not working, don’t panic! Here are some common issues and how to tackle them.
No Signal or Flickering Image
- Check the Cable Connection: This is the most frequent culprit. Make sure the
rexing rear camera cableis securely plugged into both the rear camera and the main front dash cam unit. Unplugging and re-plugging both ends can often fix it. - Inspect the Cable: Look for any visible damage, kinks, or pinches along the cable run. If the cable is damaged, you might need a replacement.
- Resolution Settings: On some Rexing models, choosing a single-channel resolution like 4K for the front might temporarily disable the rear camera. Check your dash cam’s settings to ensure dual-channel recording is enabled if that’s what you want.
- Firmware: An outdated or corrupted firmware on your dash cam can sometimes cause the rear camera to malfunction. Check the RexingUSA website for the latest firmware update for your specific model and follow their instructions carefully.
Camera Not Powering On
- Main Dash Cam Power: Ensure your front dash cam is receiving power. If the front unit isn’t on, the rear camera won’t be either.
- Cable Integrity: Again, a damaged cable could prevent power from reaching the rear camera.
- Factory Reset: Sometimes, a full factory reset of your main dash cam can clear up software glitches. Remember to back up any important footage first! You’ll also want to format your memory card afterwards.
- Defective Camera/Cable: If all else fails, the rear camera unit or the cable itself might be defective. Rexing’s customer support can help with replacements if it’s under warranty.
Loose Mounts or Poor Angle
- Re-adhesive: If your mount feels loose, remove the camera, clean the area thoroughly, and reapply a new 3M adhesive pad. Ensure you give it ample time to cure before reattaching the camera.
- Adjust Angle: Use the live view on your dash cam’s screen or companion app to fine-tune the camera angle. You want a clear, wide shot without too much of your car’s interior or the sky.
What if My Rexing V1P Rear Camera isn’t switching?
If your rexing v1p rear camera switch isn’t working as expected, meaning you can’t switch between front, rear, or picture-in-picture views, it’s usually a software or connection issue.
- Check Menu Settings: Dive into your Rexing V1P’s menu. There should be an option to cycle through camera views. Ensure it’s not set to a single-channel mode.
- Restart the Device: A simple power cycle can sometimes resolve temporary software glitches.
- Firmware Update: As mentioned, firmware issues can affect camera functionality. Make sure your Rexing V1P is running the latest firmware.
- Cable Check: A poor connection in the rear camera cable can also interfere with its detection and switching capabilities.
Optimizing Your Rear Camera Experience
Once everything is installed and working, there are a few things you can do to make sure you get the most out of your Rexing rear camera.
Regular Maintenance Tips
- Keep the Lens Clean: Just like your windshield, your rear camera lens can get dirty. Regularly wipe it clean with a soft, lint-free cloth to ensure clear footage.
- Format Your SD Card: It’s a good habit to format your dash cam’s Micro SD card every few weeks or once a month. This helps prevent corrupted files and ensures smooth recording. Always format in the camera itself for best results.
- Check Connections: Every now and then, just give your cables a gentle tug to make sure everything is still snugly connected. Vibrations from driving can sometimes loosen things over time.
- Monitor Footage: Periodically review some of your recorded footage, especially from the rear camera, to ensure it’s capturing clear, usable video.
Understanding Rear Camera OIS and why it might not apply here
You might have heard of “OIS” or Optical Image Stabilization, especially when talking about smartphone cameras. Rear camera OIS means that the camera has a hardware system tiny gyroscopes and motors that physically moves the lens or sensor to compensate for shaky hands or vibrations, resulting in clearer photos and smoother videos. Rexing M3 3 Channel: Your Ultimate Guide to a Safer Drive
However, for a stationary dash cam mounted securely in your car, rear camera OIS usually isn’t a feature you’ll find or specifically need. Dash cams are fixed to your vehicle, so they don’t experience the kind of handheld shake that OIS is designed to counteract. While your car itself experiences bumps and vibrations, the dash cam’s primary stabilization comes from its secure mount. So, while OIS is awesome for phone cameras, it’s generally not a key factor for a Rexing rear camera.
The Rear Camera Mirror Feature Explained
Some dash cam systems, particularly mirror dash cams like the Rexing M2, act as a rear camera mirror by replacing or clipping over your existing rearview mirror and displaying a live feed from the rear camera on a large screen.
- Benefits: These can offer a wider field of view than a traditional mirror, especially useful in vehicles with obstructed rear windows like vans or heavily loaded cars. They can also integrate backup camera functionality, automatically showing a parking view when you go into reverse.
- Considerations: Mirror cams can be larger and more prominent than traditional dash cams, and their placement is fixed. While they offer dual functionality, some argue that dedicated dash cams provide better recording quality and more flexible mounting options, while a traditional mirror offers an uninterrupted view.
Is a Rear Camera Really Necessary?
“Is rear camera necessary?” This is a question many people ask, and it’s a fair one, especially given the extra installation steps. The short answer: While not always legally mandatory in every region, a rear dash cam is highly recommended for comprehensive protection and peace of mind.
Legal Requirements and Safety Benefits
While a backup camera for reversing became mandatory in new vehicles in the US starting in 2018, a rear dash camera for recording continuously while driving generally isn’t required by law. Your Ultimate Guide to the Rexing V3 Plus Dash Cam: Front and Cabin Coverage for Peace of Mind
However, the safety benefits are compelling:
- Reduced Liability: In the event of an accident, particularly a rear-end collision, clear video footage from your rear camera can quickly establish fault, saving you from legal battles and increased insurance premiums.
- Deterrence: As mentioned, knowing they’re on camera can make some aggressive drivers think twice.
- Proof Against Claims: It protects you from fraudulent claims or situations where another driver tries to blame you for an incident.
Peace of Mind and Insurance Claims
Having a rear camera provides a significant boost in peace of mind. Knowing that if anything happens behind your vehicle, you have a reliable, unbiased witness makes every drive a little less stressful. For insurance claims, the footage can greatly expedite the process, often making it an open-and-shut case. Some insurance companies might even offer discounts for dual-channel dash cam systems, so it’s worth checking with your provider.
Rexing Rear Camera Accessories and Upgrades
Sometimes, the standard kit just isn’t quite enough, or you want to enhance your setup. Rexing offers a few accessories that can help.
Extension Cables when the standard isn’t enough
If you have a large vehicle like an SUV, truck, or RV, the standard rexing rear camera cable might not reach. Rexing, and third-party manufacturers, offer rexing rear camera extension cable options, sometimes up to 33 feet or more. When buying an extension cable, make sure it’s compatible with your specific Rexing model e.g., rexing v1p rear camera extension cable and check the connector type often 4-pin. Longer cables should ideally be thick and shielded to maintain video quality. Rexing Parking Mode Not Working: Your Ultimate Troubleshooting Guide
Alternative Mounting Solutions
While adhesive mounts are standard and very secure, there might be situations where you want something different. Rexing offers various mounts, including suction cup mounts for front cameras, but for rear cameras, adhesive is usually preferred for its smaller footprint and secure hold.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I troubleshoot my Rexing rear camera if it’s not working?
If your rexing rear camera not working, first check all cable connections to ensure they are secure. Inspect the cable for any visible damage. Next, try restarting your main dash cam. If that doesn’t work, perform a factory reset on your dash cam remember to back up footage first and then format the memory card. Finally, ensure your dash cam’s firmware is up to date, as outdated firmware can cause compatibility issues.
Can I extend the cable for my Rexing rear camera?
Yes, you absolutely can! If the included rexing rear camera cable isn’t long enough for your vehicle, Rexing and other brands offer rexing rear camera extension cable options. Just make sure the extension cable is compatible with your specific Rexing model like the rexing v1p rear camera extension cable and has the correct connector type usually 4-pin.
Where’s the best place to mount a Rexing rear camera on an SUV?
For an SUV or hatchback, the best spot for your rexing rear camera mount is typically inside the rear windshield, near the top center. This gives you a wide, clear view of the road behind you. If your vehicle has a liftgate, remember to leave enough slack in the cable or, for a cleaner look, route the cable through the rubber hoses that connect the liftgate to the chassis. Your Ultimate Guide to the Rexing P2 1080p FHD Body Video Camera
Do I really need a rear dash cam?
While not a legal requirement in most places, a rear dash camera is highly recommended. It provides critical video evidence for rear-end collisions, parking lot incidents, and road rage, protecting you from false claims and speeding up insurance processes. It offers valuable peace of mind by giving you comprehensive coverage around your vehicle.
What’s the difference between a rear camera and a backup camera?
A rear camera or rear dash cam is designed to continuously record footage of the road behind you while you’re driving, providing security and evidence. A backup camera or reverse camera is specifically for parking and reversing, typically displaying a live view on your dashboard screen when you shift into reverse, often with guide lines. While some dash cam systems, especially mirror dash cams, can integrate backup camera functionality, their primary role is different.
What does OIS mean in a camera and does my Rexing rear cam have it?
OIS stands for Optical Image Stabilization. It’s a hardware feature that physically moves the camera’s lens or sensor to counteract motion blur caused by camera shake, leading to clearer images and smoother videos, particularly in low light. Most standard Rexing rear dash cams, being fixed mounts in a vehicle, generally do not include OIS, as it’s typically found in handheld cameras like smartphones where user shake is a primary concern. The stability of your dash cam comes from its secure mount in the car.
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