Hey there, Subaru Forester enthusiasts! Are you looking to beef up your ride's safety and have some extra peace of mind? Installing a dash cam is a fantastic way to do just that. It's like having an eyewitness that never blinks, ready to record everything that happens on the road. In this guide, we'll dive deep into Subaru Forester dash cam installation, making the process as smooth as possible. Whether you're a DIY newbie or a seasoned pro, this step-by-step tutorial will walk you through everything you need to know. We'll cover what you need, how to install it, and some pro tips to make your installation top-notch. So, buckle up, grab your tools, and let's get started!

Why Install a Dash Cam in Your Subaru Forester?

Before we jump into the Subaru Forester dash cam installation process, let's chat about why you should even bother. Firstly, a dash cam provides solid evidence in case of accidents. Imagine being involved in a fender bender; a dash cam captures the entire event, which is super helpful when dealing with insurance claims or legal matters. Secondly, it acts as a deterrent for potential car thieves and can help with vandalism. Seeing a dash cam might make them think twice! Thirdly, dash cams can record your driving adventures. Road trips, scenic drives, or even those moments of near misses can all be captured, creating memories and potential evidence if needed. Finally, they provide peace of mind. Knowing you have a reliable witness can reduce stress while driving, especially in areas with heavy traffic or complex road conditions. So, it's a win-win: improved safety, potential cost savings, and a cooler car, sounds pretty great, right? This guide will make your Subaru Forester dash cam installation project a breeze.

What You'll Need for Your Subaru Forester Dash Cam Install

Alright, guys, before we begin the Subaru Forester dash cam installation, let's gather all the essential items. Having everything ready will make the installation process much easier. Here’s a checklist:

• Dash Cam: This is the star of the show! Choose a dash cam that suits your needs. Consider features like video quality (1080p, 4K), field of view, GPS, Wi-Fi, and parking mode. Read reviews and find one that fits your budget and requirements. Popular brands include Garmin, BlackVue, Viofo, and Thinkware.
• MicroSD Card: Most dash cams record footage onto a microSD card. Make sure the card is compatible with your dash cam and has enough storage capacity (32GB, 64GB, or more). Get a high-endurance card designed for continuous recording to avoid data corruption.
• Hardwire Kit (Optional, but Recommended): A hardwire kit connects your dash cam directly to your car's electrical system, providing continuous power and enabling parking mode. This kit typically includes a fuse tap, which connects to your fuse box.
• Fuse Taps: These are used with the hardwire kit to connect your dash cam to the car's fuse box. You'll need the correct type of fuse tap for your Forester’s fuse box (usually mini or micro2 fuses). Check your car's manual to determine the correct fuse type.
• Trim Removal Tools: These plastic tools help you safely remove interior trim panels without damaging them. They are essential for running the power cable neatly.
• Wire Taps or Connectors: If you choose not to hardwire, you'll need wire taps or connectors to connect the dash cam to your car's 12V power outlet (cigarette lighter). However, hardwiring is generally the cleaner and more reliable option.
• Cable Clips or Tape: To secure the power cable and keep it tidy. Cable clips or double-sided tape will do the trick.
• Multimeter (Optional): A multimeter can be helpful for identifying the correct fuses and testing for continuous power if you decide to hardwire.
• Screwdriver: A Phillips head screwdriver is needed to remove some of the car's trim panels.
• Owner's Manual: Always a good idea to have your Forester’s owner's manual handy. It provides info on the fuse box and other vehicle details.

Ensure you have all these items before beginning the Subaru Forester dash cam installation to make the process as smooth as possible. Having everything on hand saves time and frustration. Let’s get to the fun part!

Step-by-Step Subaru Forester Dash Cam Installation Guide

Alright, let’s get this Subaru Forester dash cam installation show on the road! Follow these steps carefully, and you’ll have your dash cam up and running in no time. This detailed walkthrough should help you with your DIY project.

Step 1: Preparing Your Dash Cam and Car

• Unpack and Test: Before anything else, unpack your dash cam and make sure everything is included. Power it up to ensure it's working correctly and familiarize yourself with the buttons and settings. Insert the microSD card.
• Choose the Mounting Location: Decide where you want to mount your dash cam. The best spot is usually near the rearview mirror, out of the driver's line of sight but with a clear view of the road. Consider the position of the power outlet or your desired hardwire location.
• Clean the Windshield: Thoroughly clean the area on your windshield where you'll attach the dash cam mount. Use a glass cleaner to remove any dirt, grease, or residue. This ensures the mount sticks securely.

Step 2: Mounting the Dash Cam

• Attach the Mount: Most dash cams come with either an adhesive mount or a suction cup. For adhesive mounts, remove the protective film and firmly press the mount onto the windshield for at least 30 seconds. If using a suction cup, clean the windshield and attach the mount.
• Position the Camera: Once the mount is secured, attach the dash cam to the mount. Adjust the camera's angle to ensure it captures the road ahead effectively. Make sure the camera's lens is clear and not obstructed by the rearview mirror or any other objects.

Step 3: Running the Power Cable

• Plan the Route: Determine the best path for the power cable. You want to conceal the cable as much as possible to keep it out of sight and avoid it obstructing your view. The most common route is to run the cable along the top of the windshield, across the headliner, down the A-pillar, and into the dashboard.
• Tuck the Cable: Use trim removal tools to gently pry the headliner and A-pillar trim. Carefully tuck the power cable behind the trim, using the trim removal tools to push the cable into the gaps. If necessary, use cable clips or double-sided tape to secure the cable in place.

Step 4: Hardwiring (Recommended) or Using the 12V Outlet

Hardwiring

• Locate the Fuse Box: Find the fuse box in your Subaru Forester. It's usually located under the dashboard on the driver's side or in the engine compartment. Consult your owner's manual to find the exact location and identify the fuses.
• Identify Constant and Switched Fuses: Use a multimeter (or test light) to identify a fuse that provides continuous power (for parking mode) and a fuse that's switched (only provides power when the ignition is on). The owner's manual can help with this, or you can test by checking for voltage with the car on and off.
• Connect the Hardwire Kit: Attach the fuse taps to the appropriate fuses in the fuse box. Connect the red (ACC) wire of the hardwire kit to the switched fuse and the yellow (B+) wire to the constant power fuse. Ground the black wire of the hardwire kit to a suitable grounding point on the car's chassis (usually a bolt under the dashboard).
• Plug in the Dash Cam: Plug the dash cam's power cable into the hardwire kit. Test the system to ensure the dash cam is receiving power correctly.

Using the 12V Outlet

• Plug into the Outlet: If you're using the 12V outlet, simply plug the dash cam's power adapter into the outlet. Ensure the cable is routed neatly and doesn’t interfere with driving.

Step 5: Finalizing the Installation

• Secure the Cable: Use cable clips or tape to secure any loose cable sections. Make sure the cable is not dangling or obstructing any controls.
• Test the Dash Cam: Turn on the car and check if the dash cam powers on and starts recording. Verify all functions, including video quality, GPS (if applicable), and parking mode (if using). Play back a recording to ensure it's capturing the road view.
• Adjust Settings: Customize your dash cam settings, such as recording resolution, loop recording duration, G-sensor sensitivity, and parking mode settings. Refer to your dash cam's user manual for guidance.
• Clean Up: Put away all tools and clean up any mess from the installation. Ensure all trim panels are securely in place.

Pro Tips for a Seamless Subaru Forester Dash Cam Install

To make your Subaru Forester dash cam installation even smoother, here are some pro tips:

• Watch Install Videos: Before you start, watch videos specific to your dash cam model and your Subaru Forester. These videos can provide visual guidance and helpful tips.
• Take Your Time: Don’t rush the installation process. Take your time to plan the route of the power cable and ensure everything is connected securely.
• Use the Right Tools: Using the correct trim removal tools will prevent damage to your car's interior. Avoid using screwdrivers or other tools that could scratch the plastic trim.
• Test Before Finalizing: Before securing all the trim panels, test the dash cam to ensure it's working correctly. This will save you from having to disassemble everything if something doesn't work.
• Consult the Owner's Manual: Always refer to your dash cam's and car's owner's manuals for specific instructions and safety precautions.
• Grounding is Key: Ensure the ground wire of your hardwire kit is securely connected to a proper grounding point on the car's chassis. A poor ground connection can cause issues with the dash cam's operation.
• Cable Management: Spend time on cable management. Neatly tucked cables will give a cleaner look and prevent them from getting in the way or interfering with airbags.
• Consider Professional Installation: If you're not comfortable with electrical work or are concerned about damaging your car, consider having a professional install the dash cam. This ensures a clean and reliable installation.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best instructions, you might encounter a few hiccups during your Subaru Forester dash cam installation. Here’s how to troubleshoot common issues:

• Dash Cam Not Powering On: Check the power connection. Ensure the power cable is securely plugged into the dash cam and the hardwire kit (if applicable). Check the fuse in the hardwire kit and the car's fuse box. If using the 12V outlet, make sure the outlet is working (try plugging in another device).
• No Recording: Make sure the microSD card is correctly inserted and formatted. Check the dash cam's settings to ensure recording is enabled. The card might be full, so try formatting or replacing it.
• Poor Video Quality: Adjust the dash cam's video settings to the highest resolution available. Clean the lens regularly to remove any smudges or dirt. Make sure the lens is not obstructed.
• Parking Mode Not Working: Verify that you've connected the hardwire kit correctly, especially the constant power wire. Check the dash cam's parking mode settings to ensure they are enabled and configured properly.
• GPS Not Working: Make sure the GPS feature is enabled in the dash cam's settings. The GPS signal might take a few minutes to acquire. Drive in an open area to improve GPS reception.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your New Dash Cam!

That's it, guys! You've successfully completed the Subaru Forester dash cam installation! Now you can enjoy the peace of mind knowing that you have a reliable witness on the road. Remember to check your local laws regarding dash cam usage, especially in areas where recording audio is restricted. Regularly check your dash cam's recordings and make sure everything is functioning correctly. Drive safe, and enjoy your enhanced driving experience!