Good afternoon,
I have 2008 Toyota Sienna LE, and I would like to install (hardwire) a dash cam with parking mode. I have everything needed:
Dashcam-- VIOFO (A129 Plus Duo)
Hardwire Kit-- VIOFO HK3 ACC Hardwire Kit for A129, A129 Plus, A129 PRO, A129 IR, A119V3, Enables Parking Mode, with Low Voltage Protection
Fuse taps and fuses (low profile)
Extra long cable for rear camera
Multimeter and all the tools required to disassemble everything in the interior.
I want to the camera to be able to record in parking mode (needs always live 12v) as well as turn on once the ignition is engaged.
Here are my questions / issues:
1) Fusebox is located in driver footwell and the only thing that covers fuses is a thin cover. If I install fuse taps, there is no way to fit the cover on. I definitely do not want to leave it exposed. I am looking for suggestions of getting around it (wiring outside of the fuse box? I can purchase additional fuse sockets) If it is not possible I may manufacture a custom cover, but figured I would ask first.
2) I know of a proper procedure to find "always live" fuse, but I wanted to ask for a shortcut (aka which ones to use) if anyone has done this install before. I have taken pictures of fusebox with clearly visible populated sockets and diagram side by side, but I cannot upload it here; I can email or text them.
I appreciate all the help!
You can upload your photo to a file sharing site and post the link here.
Here it is, thank you!
https://www.amazon.com/photos/shared/A0cKHsq6R5CTZuscdbEBCg.l7rEmNCbd3-Vi7oqMrQqRb
I'm doing the same right now.
I would avoid fuse taps. It sometimes leads to problems.
Run a dedicated, fused, circuit. Look for the main power feeds going into fuse blocks. Ideally on a stud.
Be careful with "always on" power. Crappier camera will run your battery down. The good ones have built-in batteries for parking mode.
don't automatically trust the "low voltage protection" . It doesn't always work as advertised.
Thank you for the advise, I posted models of both camera and hardwire kit ( https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07KZGM9LS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_image_o05_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1#customerReviews) in the body of the question. Reviews seem pretty favorable? I went with this particular camera (VIOFO (A129 Plus Duo) after seeing ing it in Scotty's video! What would be your advice for alternative?
If I choose to trust the low voltage protection, would tapping (with fused circuit) into map light power be a good idea. (for constant 12V for parking mode) and for recording while driving into accessory power (I will check, but I am pretty certain it is only live when the ignition is on).
No. I wouldn't tap into anything. As I've already said:
Run a dedicated, fused, circuit. Look for the main power feeds going into fuse blocks. Ideally on a stud.
Dashcams use a lot of power.
In other words, run a wire with an inline fuse directly to the battery positive terminal and a ground wire to a sheet metal ground.
It doesn’t have to be the battery, but at least main feed for the cabin fuse block.
Correcto. He could also put an off/on lighted toggle switch in line to shut it off when garage parked.