Connect the dash cam to the following:
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Constant 12 V or 24 V minimum 2 A power source
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Vehicle ignition-switched power source providing at least 1 A
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Vehicle ground/earth point
Note
You will need a self-sealing ring terminal which is not included in the kit.
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A red wire (VBATT & Fused) to connect the dash cam to constant power via a 2 Amp fuse
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A brown wire (IGNITION & Fused) to connect the dash cam to ignition power via a 1 Amp fuse
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A black wire to connect the dash cam to the vehicle ground/ earth point.
Note
The hardwire kit includes a dash cam connector, a black ground wire for a metal ground bolt, a brown wire to connect the dash cam to ignition power, and a cable with a Molex connector to connect to the dash cam.
Warning
This installation must be performed by a qualified professional. Working with your vehicle's power system can be dangerous. Consult a professional for guidance.
Note
Make sure you are using the appropriate add-a-fuse for the vehicle's specific fuse box.
Note
You can purchase an Add-A-Fuse circuit tap from our order form.
Follow these steps to hardwire the dash cam:
Important
Only a properly qualified technician should install and maintain the Surfsight powered by Lytx dash cam. Any electrical work should be performed only by a suitably trained and qualified automotive technician with qualification applicable to your country/ region/ state; and with an expertise in installing and troubleshooting advanced onboard components, including multiplexed circuits. Lytx, Inc. disclaims all responsibility for any damages arising from improper installation and maintenance of the Surfsight device.
Important
Make sure that the wiring cables and installation activities do not interfere with any airbag-related mechanisms or normal vehicle operations. Make sure the wiring cables are clear of any sharp edges, moving parts, and can't get pinched in the door jamb. The cables should be tucked away and secured behind panels wherever possible. Use cable ties at least every foot/ 30.48 cm, or as necessary, along the route of any cables to secure them in place.
Warning
Locate your fuse box Always refer to the vehicle manufacturer’s service manual/ up-fitter (body builder) sites for proper installation and wiring of any aftermarket devices, including the Surfsight A1-14. Check the owner's manual of the vehicle to find the fuse box, which may be in different places depending on the vehicle model. Remove the plastic panel to access the fuse box. Open the fuse box by lifting a tab and pulling it toward you or with a trimming tool.
Warning
All wires that carry electrical current to the Lytx device(s) must be fused. Failure to fuse the constant power wire can lead to serious personal injury and/or property damage. If any wires or cables containing fuses/fuse boxes need to be cut or otherwise shortened or extended, always be certain to replace such fuses/fuse boxes or install new ones.
Warning
Never wire the Surfsight device(s) in a manner that shares a connection with another aftermarket product in the vehicle. Independent connections should always be used.
Warning
Only approved wire connection methods are recommended. Refer to the vehicle manufacturer’s service manual to determine if sealing crimp connections, Add-A-Fuse (Add-A-Circuit), sealing butt connections, or OEM connections to open connection ports are approved. Never use plier tap products such as insulation displacement connectors (i.e., ScotchLoc connectors) when installing the Surfsight device(s) (unless mandated by the vehicle manufacture i.e., BMW).
Note
A loose ground wire can result in power issues for your dash cam.
Note
Before installing, check the vehicle manufacturer's resources to locate airbag sensors and system components. Ensure that the installation and wiring do not affect the airbags or their deployment.
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Locate the vehicle fuse box
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Use a MultiMeter to confirm which fuse is constant power.
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To identify a constant power fuse (a fuse that remains on even when the car is off), you can test it by checking it while the car doors are open, closed, and locked. This process also helps ensure that the add-a-fuse you are using is compatible with your vehicle's fuse board.
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To find an ignition power fuse (a fuse that's only live when the car is on), use a multimeter. Place one probe on a bare metal ground point on the vehicle's chassis, and use the other probe to test the metal contact points on the fuses. The fuse will show power when the ignition is turned on and when the engine is running, but not when the car is off. This method also helps confirm that your add-a-fuse is the correct type for your vehicle's fuse board.
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Attach the ground wire to a clean, bare metal part of the vehicle's chassis, which acts as a grounding point. For a secure connection, use a self-sealing crimp ring terminal (not included) to terminate the wire.
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Run the power cable from the car's fuse board up the A-pillar and along the headliner to the dash cam mount. Make sure the connected Molex plug is accessible for future maintenance.
Please see Set the AI-14 Dash cam viewing angles
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Make sure to run the wires away from any sharp edges or moving parts. Do not route them where they could get pinched, such as in a door jamb.
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Secure cables with cable ties at regular intervals along their route. Make sure to space the cables every 12 inches (30 cm) so that the cables are held firmly in place without sagging.
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You must determine if your vehicle has a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), which includes airbags. During installation, route all wiring to avoid interfering with airbags and other vehicle functions.
- Route the power cable carefully to avoid any SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components like airbags. Secure the cable with ties approximately every 12 inches (30 cm), making sure the wiring does not interfere with the SRS.
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Start your vehicle to test the dash cam.
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Make sure the AI-14 is in the correct spot on the windshield.
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Run the power cable through the top slot in the mount and behind the plastic trim.
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Finish the installation and test it.
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After completing the installation, confirm that the vehicle is operating normally and that no unintended changes have occurred.
Caution
You may need to route the cable behind the window and door trim, which is held in place by snap-fit clips. In vehicles with side or curtain airbags, these clips are often single-use and will need to be replaced. Always check your vehicle's service manual for the proper removal and replacement steps.
To use all features of the AI-14 dash cam, such as Standby mode, you must connect it to a constant 12 V or 24 V power source with a minimum of 2 A. This can be achieved by connecting the provided cables to the vehicle's OBDII port.
Look for the OBDII port in the driver's compartment. It is usually located under the dashboard, near the driver's knees, or behind a small access panel.
Note
Some vehicle manufacturers now require an open OBD port. This can be achieved by using an OBD Y interface cable, which is not included in your kit.
Warning
This installation must be performed by a qualified professional. Working with your vehicle's power system can be dangerous. Consult a professional for guidance.
Take these steps to connect your dash cam to an OBDII port:
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Locate the on-board diagnostic port.
The port is usually found in the driver area, at or below knee level.
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Align the connector end of the OBDII cable with the engine diagnostic port. Connectors can vary by vehicle. If a different one is needed, contact your authorized reseller.
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Push the connector into the port.
Note
Verify the OBDII cable is securely connected to the port.
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Connect the OBDII cable to the dash cam.
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Start your vehicle to test the dash cam.
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After you have tested the dash cam, route the power cable from the power source up the A-pillar and along the headliner to the dash cam mount. As you do this, ensure the Molex plug is positioned in an easily accessible location for future servicing.
Note
Ensure that all wiring and installation steps do not interfere with any airbag systems or the vehicle's normal operation.
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Make sure to run the wires away from any sharp edges or moving parts. Do not route them where they could get pinched, such as in a door jamb.
-
Secure cables with cable ties at regular intervals along their route. Make sure to space the cables every 12 inches (30 cm) so that the cables are held firmly in place without sagging.
-
You must determine if your vehicle has a Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), which includes airbags. During installation, route all wiring to avoid interfering with airbags and other vehicle functions.
-
Route the power cable carefully to avoid any SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components like airbags. Secure the cable with ties approximately every 12 inches (30 cm), making sure the wiring does not interfere with the SRS.
-
Start your vehicle to test the dash cam.
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Make sure the AI-14 is in the correct spot on the windshield.
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Run the power cable through the top slot in the mount and behind the plastic trim.
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Finish the installation and test it.
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After completing the installation, confirm that the vehicle is operating normally and that no unintended changes have occurred.