Hardwiring Dashcam
 

Hey everyone,
I am trying to hardwire a dash cam by tapping into the "telephone" fuse in the glovebox. I have managed to remove the glovebox but needed some advice about routing the usb cable from the fusebox to the overhead console.

1.) I notice there is a small opening in the top corner of the dash near the A pillar to run the usb through but this opening does not seem to be big enough for the usb connector to pass through. So should I pulling out the A-pillar to get more clearance or instead run the wire under the glovebox and up the side of the side into the A pillar?

2.) Would I need to remove the headliner or can I just tuck the wire in using a plastic pry tool?

3.) Regarding the fuse, I assume the telephone fuse is for the BMW factory phone which is not installed in my car. So I should be able to use that, correct?

Thanks,

See my Avin Avant 2 install thread for all you will ever want to know about routing a cable up the passenger side A pillar. ;)

Dash cam install is on my list too, so I'm very interested in what you figure out here.

I've been paying attention to things on this for a while, and the following thread is probably where I'll start when I get to it, unless of course this thread gives a better answer.

https://xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-forums/...er-source.html

Remove the A pillar. It’s super simple. You will have more room and better approach angle. It’s very simple to remove. One torx bolt under the airbag cover thing. Pull away from headliner side and it’s a 2 min thing.

Thanks everyone,
Looks like I will pull the A pillar out and try to route the cable through there.

CrystalWorks, that’s an impressive post. Found the A-pillar removal at step 58.

I'm glad it helps out from time to time, took a very long time to make. It's probably the only thing of "real" value I've managed to contribute here. :bustingup

There isn't any reason to use the pillars at all.

Just tap into the overhead console area. I wired my E70's dashcam to the garage door opener wiring. I know its the same on the E53 since I have the radar detector wired into the same spot on it.

This shows you everything you need to know to do it. Info plus pictures.

Valentine One Radar Detector | Crowz Nest

I think he meant for the video signal wire mostly. I intend to tap power/ground up there as well. Is that green wire an ACC positive or +12v constant? I'm guessing ACC since the homelink doesn't function with the X5 not in ACC. I'll have to find a constant up there (or run more wires) as I want bump detection on the camera. :dunno:

Edit: NM Crowz, I'm sure this is a standalone unit with no signal wire to the headunit. I was thinking of one tied to the head unit like I am putting in.

Are ya'll installing some sort of 12V aux battery as well - sorta defeats the purpose of these things when not catching the moments when car is off ?

+1 to what Crowz is saying. I have my V1 installed this way.