Thread: wiring dash-cam to overhead panel

Hi, I saw some descriptions of this in other threads on other forums (but without photos) so I thought I would give it a go. So here it is with some photos. I went with a cheap dashcam unit bought off ebay for less than $20.
1. Use a soft tool to remove the overhead panel - the frame is thick so you have to push up vertical with the tool more than you would guess at first.
2. lever it out at the rear and then it comes away at the front. Then disconnect the wiring socket, the connector has a push in click catch. I have included a photo of what it looks like removed. Also included a photo of the wires, showing the green and brown wire which is the one described in other threads as the appropriate wire. I cut a small section of the insulation away and applied some solder ready for the connection wire.
3. feed the USB cable through so it comes out the little hole close to the mirror support near the windscreen. I was using mini USB and found I had to pry apart the gap a little to feed it through. After it was through far enough I tied a loop in it to prevent it coming fully out. Edit: added photo.
4. butcher a cheap 12v USB adapter and connect to a connector block, I soldered the earth wire on the USB connector, and made use of the spring for the positive connection.
5. as a earth point in the car there is a hex bolt that is fairly easy to access and slide a wire terminal under, see blue wire in the photo. Connect the wires in the car to the connector block. Blue light on the USB connector indicates it works .
6. Connect the USB cable into the USB connector and replace the panel, remembering to connect the wiring socket. I have included a couple of photos of the cheapie camera.
Observations of power behaviour with the green and brown wire - power to the camera starts when interior lights start, eg when opening the door. Power remains after the interior lights go out, and even after the other 12v outlets cut out. (a bit like using the radio, I suppose) , I have let it run for over 10 mins after stopping the car, so not sure if power is automatically cut at some point, or if the car itself would shut everything down at a low voltage trigger. Power to the camera cuts out when the car doors are locked. If I am going to be away from the car with the door unlocked I should remember to switch off the camera on the camera itself.
Anyway, hope this is of use to somebody.

I've installed a dual camera system (Blacksys CH-200) in mine, I ran the power cable down behind the glovebox and used the fusebox there to provide permanent and switched power. I used a piggy back fuse holder and the large earth that is just above the glovebox.

I started a write up about it but didn't take any photos as it was a rush job and I didn't think about it at the time.

It was pretty easy to tuck the cables into the hood liner and down the A pillar. I had to be careful with the rear camera cable to ensure it went behind the airbags.