How to install a Front and rear Dash Cam? [2025 GUIDE]
You’ve made the decision to purchase a rear camera to supplement your connected roadview dash cam – congratulations! In one move you’ve exponentially increased your security coverage and did your part to ensure a safer driving experience… for everyone.
Now it’s time to set up your Nexar rearview camera and we’re here to provide all the guidance you need to ensure your front and rear camera work together seamlessly so you can get back on the road and do what you do. Read on for an in-depth guide for successful installation.
Dash Cam Front and Rear Installation First Steps
Successful rear dash cam installation is dependent upon a functioning connected roadview dash cam. Follow all instructions for installing your front roadview cam. Once this is functioning, you are ready to install your rear dash cam.
First, clean the front and rear windshield, taking special care to thoroughly clean the area of the windshield where you plan to mount your roadview camera.
Installing Front Dash Cam
Nexar connected front dash cams such as beam2 and beam2 mini are designed for a simple installation experience.
Turn on your vehicle to power the front dash cam. LED indicators on the camera will signal operational status. Pair your device with the Nexar Connect app for enhanced functionality.
Place the sun protector sticker on the windshield. Remove the adhesive sticker from the back of the camera and apply the camera to your front windshield firmly.
Next, organize cables for an unobtrusive setup (typically drivers run the cables along the periphery of the windshield). Your Nexar dash cam comes with an installation tool and clips for optimum placement.
Once the camera is placed, continue the setup process through the Nexar Connect app.
Installing the Rear Dash Cam
Dash cam front and rear installation are typically similar. You might need around 10 minutes to complete the set up of your rear camera.
Open your trunk. Connect the suction cup to the rear camera. Connect the cable from the mount to the camera. Clean the designated area of the windshield. Remove the plastic cover from the suction cup. Place an extra adhesive sticker for a firm windshield hold. Mount the dash cam and rotate to create pressure.
Next, connect the mount to your power source. Tighten up the screw in the mount. Adjust the camera angle as needed. Remove plastic from the lens. Hide wires using the installation kit provided in the box.
For a more stable power connection, consider attaching a small rectangular sticker to the CLA before inserting it into the port, located at the front or rear of your vehicle.
After connecting your camera to the power, open the Nexar Connect app on your phone and check for the rear camera through your main connected camera.
Pairing Your Rear Camera with Your Roadview Camera
Rear camera establishes a connection using Bluetooth to the Nexar connect dashcam, after that it can pass video to the Nexar connect using wifi. It’s important to note the rear camera cannot be used as a standalone device. Nexar rear camera require the front camera for full functionality.
The Nexar Connect app will guide you through the entire pairing process. There are 3 entry points when it comes to onboarding the rear camera.
- Immediately after the main camera onboarding.
- The main camera is already onboarded and automatically detects the rear camera.
- From the app’s settings screen.
Once your rear camera is paired with your roadview camera, you’ll be ready to proceed with the next steps listed below.
Configuring and Testing Your Front and Rear Dash Cam
Now that your dash cam front and rear installation is complete, it’s time for the configuration process. After your front and rear dash cam system is set up, it’s time to customize your settings just the way you like. The Nexar Connect app provides live alerts, parking mode, emergency alerts, and unlimited cloud storage possible.
You can test dash cam front and rear installation to ensure that they capture the correct angles and get the very best field of view. You can also test the resolution of the video by looking back at captured footage. One good way to test video resolution is to gauge whether or not you can easily see the details of license plate numbers.
You can also play with settings such as picture quality, video resolution, modify loop recording settings, activate settings like parking mode, and test night vision capabilities. For good measure, make sure to read your user guide in its entirety.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting of Front And Rear Dash cam
Taking care of your front and rear dash cam will extend the life of your hardware while helping you get the most out of your investment. Nexar provides 24/7 support to our valued customers.
Routine maintenance includes cleaning the camera lenses to ensure they are capturing good quality images/footage. Make sure that all of your connections are secure and that your wiring is up to scratch and undamaged. If you notice any discoloration or blemishes/ cuts/ scratches on your front and rear dash cam wiring, it’s probably a good idea to replace those with certified/authorized replacement parts. Adhesive and clips securing wiring should also be replaced as needed.
Another way to look after your front and rear dash cam is to back up footage, which will help you avoid things like data loss and overwriting. Nexar beam2 and beam2 mini requests the clip through Wi-Fi coordinating with the rear camera. The Nexar Connect app retrieves the footage/video clip through the cloud.
Dash Cam Front and Rear Installation FAQs
Can Rear Dash Cams be used as a standalone device?
No; rear dash cams do not function as standalone devices (unless a manufacturer states otherwise). Rear dash cams require power from your vehicle's electrical system in order to operate. Rear dash cams need to be connected to your front dash cam (such as beam2 or beam2 mini) and wired directly to a car, truck, or SUV power source for functionality. Rear dash cams are typically designed to supplement a larger, total dash cam system in lieu of operating independently. You can pair your Nexar rear dash cam with beam2 or beam2 mini for complete vehicle coverage.
Do dashcams need to be professionally installed?
Do dash cams need professional installation?
No, Nexar dash cams are designed for easy self-installation and can be set up in just 10 minutes. Nexar provides step-by-step installation guides, allowing you to complete the setup on your own without professional help.
How much does it cost to install a dash cam?
With Nexar, installation is completely free! Nexar dash cams are designed for easy self-installation, and we provide step-by-step guides to help you set everything up on your own in just 10 minutes.
Is it worth getting a front and rear dash cam?
Ultimately it’s up to you if it’s “worth it” to get a front and rear dash cam system. Many individuals with front and rear dash cams enjoy the sort of peace of mind that only a front and rear dash cam system can provide. Having a front and rear dash cam will minimize or eliminate blind spots.
Will my car insurance go down if I install a dash cam?
Insurance providers do not typically lower insurance premiums or rates for drivers who install a front and rear dash cam, although this may change in the future. Although your monthly insurance bill probably won’t go down after installing a dash cam, you can save a lot of money in potential insurance disputes and fraudulent claims with video evidence.
How do I ensure continuous recording?
With most front and rear dash cam models/brands, continuous recording is typically achieved via a battery pack, hardwiring kits, cloud storage that helps keep your front and rear dash cam running – even when the car is off. Nexar provides hardwiring kits and cloud storage to capture critical moments.
How long do front and rear dash cams take to install?
Dash cam front and rear installation times will vary depending on dash cam model/manufacturer. Easier setups can be done in around a half hour, while hardwiring may take a few hours. Nexar connected front and rear dash cams can typically be set up in 10 minutes or less.
Are there any legal restrictions for dash cams and what I can and can’t record?
Yes, there are legal restrictions when it comes to front and rear dash cams. It’s best to look into the laws of your specific state as they may vary. Typically, laws generally concern things like the placement of the camera (as in, does it obstruct the driver’s view), recording permissions (one-party or all-party consent), and privacy concerns (recording private conversations or non-public areas). Again, check your local laws and regulations to see what applies to you.