Finding a Rexing smart hardwire kit near you and getting it installed might seem like a bit of a puzzle, but trust me, it’s totally doable and absolutely worth it for that peace of mind. To really hook up your Rexing dash cam for round-the-clock protection and a super clean look, you’re going to want to hardwire it. This means saying goodbye to those dangling cigarette lighter cables and hello to uninterrupted power, especially for those crucial parking mode features that keep an eye on your ride even when you’re not around. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast ready to tackle the wiring yourself or prefer to leave it to the pros, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding the different kits to finding installation services and troubleshooting tips. By the end, you’ll feel confident in giving your dash cam the reliable power source it deserves.
What’s the Deal with a Rexing Smart Hardwire Kit and Why You Need One?
Alright, let’s get straight to it. A Rexing smart hardwire kit is basically a special cable setup that connects your dash cam directly to your car’s fuse box, instead of just plugging it into the cigarette lighter or USB port. Why bother with this, you ask? Well, it opens up a whole new world of protection for your vehicle.
Think about it: most dash cams that just plug into your car’s accessory outlet only work when your car is on. But what happens when you park and walk away? That’s where a hardwire kit shines. It provides continuous power supply to your dash cam, even when the engine is off. This is super important because it enables those awesome 24/7 parking monitor features. Imagine if someone bumps your car in a parking lot, or tries to tamper with it – your dash cam, powered by the hardwire kit, will automatically start recording, capturing crucial evidence.
Beyond the security aspect, hardwiring gives you a cleaner, more organized installation. No more messy wires snaking across your dashboard or hogging your charging ports. It just looks so much tidier, and honestly, it feels more integrated with your car. Plus, these smart kits come with built-in low voltage protection, which is a huge relief. This clever feature monitors your car battery’s voltage and will automatically cut power to the dash cam if it drops too low, ensuring you still have enough juice to start your car. Nobody wants a dead battery just because their dash cam was too vigilant!
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Rexing actually offers a couple of main types of hardwire kits, and knowing the difference is key:
- Rexing Smart Hardwire Kit Mini-USB Port: This one is usually designed for their supercapacitor models like the V1-4K, V1P-4K, V3 Basic, V2 Pro AI, and more. It’s straightforward and provides continuous power, but some versions might not inherently support advanced parking modes like motion detection, instead focusing on G-sensor activated recording.
- Rexing Intelligent Hardwire Kit Type-C or Mini-USB Port, depending on model: This is often the “smarter” sibling, especially the Type-C versions. Many of these kits, like the ones for R4, DT2, M3, M2 Max, RH2 Series, and CPDuo, come with an ACC detection feature and built-in motion sensors. This means your dash cam can automatically switch to parking mode when your engine turns off and then spring into action to record only when motion is detected, saving memory and power. Some of these intelligent kits even override the dash cam’s internal parking monitor, handling the detection themselves.
So, picking the right kit really depends on your specific Rexing dash cam model and what kind of parking surveillance features you’re looking for. Always double-check your dash cam’s compatibility! Your Go-To Guide for the Rexing R316 Dash Cam: Setup, Features, and Troubleshooting
Essential Features of Rexing Smart Hardwire Kits
When you’re looking at a Rexing hardwire kit, you’re getting more than just a power cable. These kits are packed with smart features designed to keep your car protected without draining your battery or cluttering your cabin. Let’s dig into some of the standout functionalities:
24/7 Parking Surveillance and Advanced Parking Modes
This is probably the biggest reason people opt for a hardwire kit. Imagine your car as a silent sentinel, always watching. With a hardwire kit, your Rexing dash cam can stay powered on and vigilant even when your vehicle is turned off. This enables various parking modes to keep an eye on things:
- G-Sensor Detection: Most modern dash cams have a G-sensor, which detects sudden impacts or movements. In parking mode, if someone bumps into your car, the G-sensor will trigger the dash cam to record the incident. This is super helpful for hit-and-runs!
- Motion Detection: The Intelligent Hardwire Kits often come with a motion sensor. This means the dash cam will automatically power up and start recording only when it detects movement around your vehicle, like someone walking too close or another car pulling into the adjacent spot. This saves on power and storage space compared to continuous recording.
- Time-Lapse Recording: Some advanced parking modes offer time-lapse, which records footage at a lower frame rate, like 1 frame per second. This compresses a long period of surveillance into a short, reviewable video, making it easier to scan through hours of footage quickly.
With features like these, you’re essentially getting an extra layer of security, providing valuable evidence for insurance claims or just giving you peace of mind that your car is monitored around the clock.
Low Voltage Protection
This feature is a must and prevents a common worry with hardwired dash cams: draining your car’s battery. Rexing smart hardwire kits come with a built-in smart low voltage protection system. If your car battery’s voltage drops to a certain level often around 11.8V or 11.4V for a 12V vehicle, or 23.5V for a 24V vehicle, the hardwire kit will automatically cut off power to the dash cam. This leaves you with enough battery power to confidently start your car the next time you need it. It’s a clever bit of engineering that means you don’t have to constantly worry about your car’s starting capabilities. Rexing S1 Pro: Your Ultimate Guide to a 3-Channel Dash Cam
ACC Detection
The ACC detection feature is all about smooth transitions. ACC stands for Accessory power, which is only on when your car’s ignition is on or in accessory mode. With this feature, your dash cam knows whether your engine is running or not. So, when you turn off your car, the dash cam will automatically switch into its parking mode. When you start your car again, it seamlessly transitions back to normal recording. This hands-free operation is incredibly convenient and ensures you’re always recording when you need to be.
Wide Compatibility and Power Output
Rexing hardwire kits are designed to work with a range of their dash cam models, typically accepting a wide input voltage of 12V-30V. This means they’re compatible with most cars, trucks, and even some larger vehicles. The output is usually 5V/1.5A or 5V/2A via a Mini-USB or Type-C port, depending on the specific kit and your dash cam’s requirements. This standard output ensures your dash cam gets the stable power it needs. Always double-check the port type your Rexing dash cam uses Mini-USB or Type-C before grabbing a hardwire kit to ensure compatibility.
DIY Installation: A Step-by-Step Guide for Your Rexing Dash Cam
You’ve got your Rexing smart hardwire kit and you’re feeling adventurous enough to install it yourself. That’s awesome! It’s definitely a project you can tackle at home with some basic tools and a bit of patience. Just remember, we’re dealing with your car’s electrical system, so taking your time and being careful is key.
Before you start, if you’re ever unsure about anything, please don’t hesitate to consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or consider getting professional help. Safety first, always! Master Rexing Roller Skating: Your Ultimate Guide to Backward Glides and Smooth Moves
What You’ll Need
Here’s a quick checklist of tools and materials you’ll likely want to have on hand:
- Your Rexing Smart Hardwire Kit: Obviously! Make sure it’s the right one for your dash cam’s port Mini-USB or Type-C.
- Fuse Taps Add-a-Circuit: These are crucial for a clean and safe installation. Your hardwire kit might come with a few, but having a variety to match your car’s fuse types e.g., ATO, mini, micro2 is a good idea.
- Crimping Tool: For attaching the fuse taps to the hardwire kit wires if they aren’t pre-attached.
- Multimeter or Fuse Tester: Absolutely essential for finding the right fuse slots. Don’t skip this!
- Wire Strippers: If you need to strip any wires.
- Pry Tools Plastic Trim Removal Tools: These are super handy for safely tucking away cables and removing interior trim without damaging anything.
- Zip Ties or Cable Hiding Clips: To keep everything neat and secure.
- Flashlight or Headlamp: For seeing into those dark crevices.
- Owner’s Manual for Your Vehicle: This will help you locate your fuse box and understand your car’s fuse layout.
Step 1: Mount Your Dash Cam
Before you even touch the wiring, decide where your dash cam will go. You want a spot that gives it a clear view of the road and cabin/rear if you have a multi-channel system without obstructing your own driving view. Once you’ve picked the perfect spot, attach it securely to the windshield using its adhesive mount.
Step 2: Locate Your Car’s Fuse Box
Your car usually has at least one interior fuse box, sometimes two. Common locations include:
- Under the dashboard on the driver’s side.
- On the side of the dashboard, accessible when the door is open.
- Under the glove compartment on the passenger’s side.
- In the center console.
Consult your car’s owner’s manual. it will show you exactly where it is and how to access it. You might need to remove a small trim panel or cover.
Step 3: Identify the Right Fuse Slots
This is where your multimeter or fuse tester comes in! Your Rexing hardwire kit will typically have three wires: Rexing Rear Camera Only: Can You Really Do It?
- Red or yellow, check your kit’s instructions!: This needs to connect to a switched fuse also called ACC fuse. This is a fuse that only gets power when your car’s ignition is on. Use your tester to find a fuse slot that is “hot” only when the car is on and “cold” when the car is off. Choose a fuse that’s rated between 10A-30A.
- Yellow or red, check your kit’s instructions!: This needs to connect to a constant fuse also called a hot fuse. This is a fuse that always has power, even when your car is off. This is what enables parking mode. Again, use your tester to find a slot that’s always hot.
- Black: This is your ground wire. It needs to be connected to a metal bolt or screw on the car’s chassis, preferably near the fuse box. This provides a safe return path for the electrical current. Look for an existing bolt you can loosen slightly, slide the ground wire’s spade connector under it, and then tighten it back down.
Important Tip: Always use an add-a-fuse fuse tap. This allows you to tap into an existing circuit safely without splicing wires. You’ll plug the original fuse into the lower slot of the add-a-fuse, and then add a new, low-amp fuse often 2A or 3A, usually included with the hardwire kit for the dash cam into the upper slot. This protects both your car’s original circuit and your dash cam. Always avoid tapping into fuses critical for safety features like airbags.
Step 4: Connect the Hardwire Kit Wires
Once you’ve identified your fuse slots and have your fuse taps ready:
- Attach the Red/Switched wire: Crimp the hardwire kit’s switched wire to a fuse tap. Insert the correct fuse for the dash cam into the tap, then insert the tap into the chosen switched fuse slot in your fuse box.
- Attach the Yellow/Constant wire: Crimp the hardwire kit’s constant wire to another fuse tap. Insert its fuse into the tap, and then insert the tap into the chosen constant fuse slot.
- Attach the Black/Ground wire: Securely connect the ground wire to a bare metal bolt on the vehicle’s frame.
Step 5: Route and Hide the Cables
Now for the satisfying part – making it all disappear!
- Start from your dash cam and run the power cable along the top of your windshield, tucking it into the headliner.
- Carefully run the cable down the A-pillar the frame next to your windshield. Use your pry tools to gently tuck the wire under the trim. Be mindful of any airbags in the A-pillar. avoid running wires in front of them where they could interfere with deployment.
- Continue routing the cable along the side of the dashboard, down into the footwell, and towards your fuse box.
- Use cable clips or zip ties to secure any loose wiring. The goal is for the cables to be completely hidden and out of the way.
Step 6: Connect to the Dash Cam and Test
Finally, connect the Mini-USB or Type-C end of the hardwire kit to your Rexing dash cam.
- Start your car: The dash cam should power on and begin recording normally.
- Turn off your car: The dash cam should enter its parking mode if applicable to your kit and camera model. Test this by simulating an impact or motion if your kit has motion detection to ensure it records.
- Check your car battery a day or two later, especially if you have an older battery, to confirm the low voltage protection is working as expected.
If everything works, congratulations! You’ve successfully hardwired your Rexing dash cam! Rexing Rear Camera Upside Down: Easy Fixes & Troubleshooting Tips
Finding “Rexing Smart Hardwire Kit Near Me”: Purchase Options
So, you’re ready to buy a Rexing smart hardwire kit, but where can you actually get one? Luckily, these kits are pretty widely available, both online and in physical stores.
Online Retailers
The internet is usually your best bet for finding the exact Rexing hardwire kit you need, especially if you’re looking for a specific model Mini-USB vs. Type-C, or with intelligent features like motion detection.
- RexingUSA.com: This is the official source, so you’ll find their full range of hardwire kits, often with detailed compatibility lists for their dash cams. They frequently have sales, and you can sometimes get extended warranty by registering your product on their site.
- Amazon: A massive marketplace where you’ll find various Rexing hardwire kits. It’s a great place to check for competitive pricing and read customer reviews, which can be super helpful.
- Best Buy: You can find Rexing hardwire kits on Best Buy’s website, often with options for in-store pickup. They might also offer professional installation services through their Geek Squad, which we’ll talk about next.
- Target: Similar to Best Buy, Target’s website lists Rexing smart hardwire kits, usually with details on in-store availability or shipping.
- Walmart: Rexing hardwire kits are also available through Walmart’s website, sometimes sold directly by RexingUSA or other third-party sellers.
- Newegg & eBay: These platforms can also be good spots to find new or even open-box Rexing hardwire kits, sometimes at discounted prices. Just be sure to check seller ratings and return policies.
When buying online, always double-check the connector type Mini-USB or Type-C and confirm it matches your specific Rexing dash cam model. Rexing makes different kits for different cameras, so don’t just assume one fits all!
Brick-and-Mortar Stores
If you prefer to see the product in person or need it right away, some physical retailers carry Rexing hardwire kits:
- Best Buy: They often stock Rexing smart hardwire kits in their electronics section. The advantage here is you can also speak with sales associates who might be able to guide you on compatibility or even schedule an installation.
- Target: You might find some Rexing accessories, including hardwire kits, at larger Target stores. Availability can vary, so checking their website for in-store stock before heading out is a good idea.
While “near me” for online shopping usually means fast shipping, these physical stores give you the immediate gratification and a chance to get some in-person advice.
Professional Dash Cam Hardwire Installation Near Me: When to Call the Pros
Let’s be real, not everyone feels comfortable poking around their car’s fuse box, and that’s totally fine! If the thought of tapping into your vehicle’s electrical system gives you pause, or if you just want the absolute cleanest, most headache-free setup, then professional dash cam hardwire installation is definitely the way to go.
Benefits of Professional Installation
- Expertise and Experience: Professional installers, like those at car audio shops or specialized dash cam stores, do this all the time. They know the ins and outs of various vehicle electrical systems, ensuring the job is done correctly and safely.
- Clean and Discreet Look: They’re masters at hiding wires. You won’t see a single cable, giving your interior a factory-installed feel.
- Avoids Electrical Issues: Incorrect wiring can lead to blown fuses, battery drain, or even more serious electrical problems. Professionals minimize this risk.
- Warranty and Support: Many installers offer a warranty on their labor, providing peace of mind. If anything goes wrong related to the installation, they’ll fix it.
- Correct Fuse Tapping: They’ll know exactly which fuse slots to use for constant and switched power, and they’ll properly install fuse taps to protect your vehicle’s circuits.
Where to Find Installers Near You
Finding a reliable installer for your Rexing dash cam hardwire installation is usually pretty straightforward: Rexing R4 Plus Installation: Your Ultimate Guide to Getting Started
- Best Buy Geek Squad: This is a popular option. Best Buy often offers dash cam installation services through their Geek Squad. They can install both the dash cam and the hardwire kit. Customers often report charges around $99 for a front and rear camera installation with a hardwire kit. You can check their website for local service availability and pricing.
- Car Audio and Electronics Shops: These businesses specialize in vehicle electronics and are highly experienced with hardwiring. Installing a dash cam is very similar to the work they do regularly. Just Google “car audio installation near me” or “car electronics installation near me” and call ahead to confirm they install dash cams and hardwire kits.
- Specialized Dash Cam Installers: In larger cities, you might find shops that focus specifically on dash cam sales and installation, like “The Dashcam Store” or “EzDashcam”. These places often have technicians who are true experts in the field. They might even offer mobile installation services where they come to you.
- Local Auto Electricians/Mechanics: Many independent mechanics or auto electricians can also perform this service. Platforms like Airtasker can help you find local professionals and even get quotes. You might see prices ranging from $100 to $225 for dash cam installation that includes hardwiring to the fuse box.
When you call, make sure to specify that you have a Rexing dash cam and a Rexing hardwire kit, and that you need it hardwired for parking mode functionality. Ask about their experience with dash cam installations, their pricing, and any labor warranties they offer. Don’t be afraid to ask for a quote beforehand!
Choosing the Right Rexing Hardwire Kit for Your Dash Cam
Picking the right hardwire kit is crucial for a smooth installation and to get the most out of your dash cam. It really boils down to two main things: your specific Rexing dash cam model and the features you want.
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Check the USB Port Type: This is probably the most important factor. Rexing dash cams use either a Mini-USB port or a Type-C USB port for power. You absolutely need a hardwire kit with the matching connector.
- Mini-USB Kits: These are typically compatible with many of Rexing’s older or supercapacitor models like the V1-4K, V1P-4K, V3 Basic, V2 Pro AI, and some S1 series cameras.
- Type-C Kits: These are usually for newer Rexing models, including the R4, DT2, M3, M2 Max, RH2 Series, and CPDuo.
Always verify your dash cam’s port before buying a kit!
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Smart Hardwire Kit vs. Intelligent Hardwire Kit: Rexing differentiates between their “Smart” and “Intelligent” kits, and the primary difference often lies in their advanced parking mode capabilities. Mastering the Rexing R4 Hardwire Kit: Your Ultimate Installation Guide
- The basic Smart Hardwire Kit ensures continuous power and low voltage protection, enabling G-sensor based parking mode.
- The Intelligent Hardwire Kit often the Type-C versions might offer more advanced features like dedicated motion sensing. These kits often take over the parking mode detection from the dash cam itself, activating recording only when motion is detected around the vehicle. If 360° motion detection is a priority for you, an Intelligent Hardwire Kit is likely what you’re after.
Remember, you want a kit that not only powers your dash cam reliably but also unlocks its full potential, especially for parking surveillance. Refer to your dash cam’s manual or Rexing’s support page for specific recommendations and compatibility charts.
Troubleshooting Common Rexing Hardwire Kit Installation Issues
Even with the best instructions, sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. If you’ve just installed your Rexing smart hardwire kit and something isn’t quite right, don’t fret! Here are some common issues and what you can usually do to fix them:
Dash Cam Won’t Turn On After Hardwiring
- Check Fuse Connections: This is the most common culprit. Did you correctly identify the constant and switched fuse slots? Use your fuse tester again to confirm power in both slots. Make sure the fuse taps are seated firmly and the fuses inside them both original and dash cam fuse are intact. A blown fuse will cut power.
- Ground Connection: Is your black ground wire securely attached to a bare metal bolt on the chassis? A loose or poor ground connection can prevent the dash cam from powering up.
- Cable Connection to Dash Cam: Ensure the Mini-USB or Type-C connector is fully inserted into your dash cam. Sometimes it feels snug but isn’t quite all the way in.
- Hardwire Kit Faulty: While less common, sometimes a component in the hardwire kit itself can be faulty. If you’ve checked everything else, you might need to test the kit with a different power source or contact Rexing support.
Parking Mode Not Working or Battery Draining
- Correct Fuse Taps for Parking Mode: Parking mode requires the constant always-on power source. Double-check that your yellow or constant wire is definitely connected to a fuse that has power even when the car is off.
- Dash Cam Settings: Many Rexing dash cams require you to enable “Parking Mode” in their settings after hardwiring. Some Intelligent Hardwire Kits, however, override the dash cam’s internal parking mode settings, so you should actually not enable it in the camera’s menu if your kit is designed this way. Read your specific kit’s instructions carefully.
- Low Voltage Protection Settings: Ensure the low voltage cut-off is set appropriately for your vehicle if your kit has adjustable settings, though most Rexing ones are fixed. If it’s cutting off too early, your parking mode duration will be short. If it’s set too low, it could drain your battery though Rexing’s fixed values are generally safe.
- Dash Cam Compatibility: Confirm your specific Rexing dash cam model and hardwire kit are fully compatible for parking mode features. Some older “Smart Hardwire Kits” might not support advanced motion detection.
- Motion Sensor Obstruction Intelligent Kits: If you have an Intelligent Hardwire Kit with a separate motion sensor, make sure it’s not blocked by anything like a thick sunshade or rearview mirror.
Wires are Visible or Installation Looks Messy
- This isn’t a “technical” issue, but it can be annoying! Go back and re-tuck the wires using your trim removal tools. Take your time to carefully route them under headliners, down A-pillars, and along door seals. Watching a few installation videos for your specific car model can give you tips on the best places to hide cables. Patience is your friend here!
If you’re still scratching your head after troubleshooting, remember that Rexing has a support team you can reach out to, and their website often has user manuals and tutorial videos that can be incredibly helpful.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between Rexing’s Smart Hardwire Kit and Intelligent Hardwire Kit?
The main difference often lies in the advanced parking mode capabilities and the connector type. The Smart Hardwire Kit typically uses a Mini-USB port and focuses on basic continuous power and G-sensor activated parking mode. The Intelligent Hardwire Kit, often with a Type-C port, usually includes more advanced features like ACC detection and built-in motion sensors that can automatically power up the dash cam upon detecting movement, overriding the camera’s internal parking mode settings.
Can I install a Rexing hardwire kit myself, or should I get professional help?
You absolutely can install a Rexing hardwire kit yourself if you’re comfortable working with your car’s electrical system and have basic tools like a multimeter and fuse taps. Rexing provides instructions and videos to guide you. However, if you’re unsure, prefer a guaranteed clean look, or want to avoid potential electrical issues, professional installation by a car audio shop, auto electrician, or services like Best Buy’s Geek Squad is a great option.
How much does it cost to have a dash cam hardwired professionally?
The cost for professional dash cam hardwire installation can vary depending on your location, the complexity of the installation e.g., front-only vs. front and rear cameras, and the installer. Generally, you might expect to pay anywhere from $99 to $225. Always call ahead to get a specific quote from your chosen installer.
Will a Rexing smart hardwire kit drain my car’s battery?
No, Rexing smart hardwire kits come with built-in low voltage protection. This feature constantly monitors your car battery’s voltage and will automatically cut off power to the dash cam if the voltage drops below a safe threshold typically around 11.8V for a 12V system. This ensures you’ll still have enough power to start your car.
Where can I buy a Rexing smart hardwire kit?
You can purchase Rexing smart hardwire kits from various places. Online, you’ll find them on RexingUSA.com, Amazon, BestBuy.com, Target.com, Walmart.com, Newegg, and eBay. For in-person purchases, Best Buy and sometimes Target stores might carry them. Always confirm the specific kit’s compatibility with your dash cam model.
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