Arguably one of the most frequent questions and areas of confusion among our customers. We’ve encountered instances where car dealerships reject warranty claims when a dash cam is hardwired into the vehicle. But is there any merit to this?
Car dealers can’t void your warranty.
After reaching out to various local car dealerships, the consensus was clear: installing a dashcam generally won’t void your car’s warranty. In theory, dealership policies might allow them to void the warranty if they can prove the dashcam directly caused the need for repairs. However, the reality is a bit more nuanced.
While they technically can’t void the warranty, some dealerships may make it challenging for you. For instance, if your car battery dies or there’s a battery drain issue, they might point to the dashcam as a non-OEM (original equipment manufacturer) component, expressing concerns about its installation and potential contribution to the problem.
A few dealerships recommended a simple plug-and-play setup, assuring us that connecting the dashcam to the cigarette lighter socket using a 12V power cable shouldn’t cause any issues, as that’s what these sockets are designed for.
However, we all know that a basic 12V plug-and-play setup won’t provide parking mode recording capabilities. So, what alternatives do you have in such cases?
Dash cam install with parking mode that won’t void your car warranty
Hardwiring Kit: Most Affordable Way to Parking Mode
Hardwiring a dashcam to your car’s fuse box might seem straightforward, but it’s not without its challenges. Mistakes can happen, and fuses may blow. If you’re not confident in your skills, it’s advisable to take your car to a professional shop for the installation. Navigating wires around the a-pillar airbags and identifying a suitable empty fuse can be tricky, especially when dealing with a front and rear dual-cam setup. Be cautious about hiring individuals from platforms like Kijiji or Facebook Marketplace for hardwire installations.
For those attempting a DIY hardwire installation, carefully read your vehicle owner’s manual and the dashcam’s installation guide. Ensure you have all the necessary tools for the project. If you’re unsure about the tools needed, consider our BlackboxMyCar Essential Install Package, which includes a circuit tester, add-a-circuit fuse taps, and other essential tools. One dealership strongly recommended fuse taps and advised against splicing wires or tampering with critical fuses.
We also offer a comprehensive Hardwire Installation Guide with step-by-step instructions for added assistance.
OBD Power: Parking Mode without Hardwiring
Many individuals choose the OBD power cable for their dash cams, providing parking mode recording without relying on the vehicle’s electrical system. This option allows for easy unplugging of the dash cam when necessary, such as before entering the service department at dealerships.
The OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) port is present in vehicles manufactured since the late ’90s, offering a universal plug-and-play fit. Accessing the OBD port is often simpler than reaching the vehicle’s fuse box. However, it’s important to note that not all dash cams come with an OBD cable.
For those seeking step-by-step instructions on OBD power installation, we offer a detailed OBD Power Installation Guide for added assistance.
Dash Cam Battery Pack: Extended Parking Mode without Hardwiring
The consensus among the dealers we reached out to is that a plug-and-play setup, as long as it doesn’t cause a fuse to blow, will not void your warranty. Essentially, if it plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter socket without causing issues, it’s fair game.
For those seeking extended parking coverage without the need for hardwiring, a dash cam battery pack like the BlackboxMyCar PowerCell 8 or the Cellink NEO is an excellent option. Simply plug it into the car’s cigarette lighter socket, and you’ll have ample power. If you’re looking for a faster recharging time, hardwiring is an alternative, though not necessary.
If you require step-by-step instructions on installing a battery pack, our Battery Pack Installation Guide is available for guidance.
Don’t let fear rule your dash cam needs.
Rest assured, installing a dash cam in your car won’t jeopardize your warranty. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a federal law established by Congress in 1975, safeguards consumers against deceptive warranty practices. This means that modifications like adding a dash cam, installing a radar detector, or making other non-in
Post time: Dec-12-2023