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The intention is to install the camera discretely behind the rear view mirror and good news, there is a constant 12v feed to the overhead interior light cluster that is easy to tap into to keep the wiring hidden.
The first step in the installation procedure is to gain access to where the rear view mirror column shroud extends into the cabin. This is where the camera’s USB power cable will pass through from the roof as there is sufficient space for the cable and it is well hidden.
The Rear view mirror column shroud is removed by inserting a credit card to push back on the two bendy retaining tabs simultaneously and then pulling the shroud down. Once loose the shroud can then be easily extracted by pulling then towards you (the rear view mirror will need to be tilted down for the shroud to be extracted).
Removing the rear view mirror shroud
Using a card to push on bendy tags
The next step will be to gain access to the power feed above the overhead light cluster. Once again this is accessed using a credit card. Insert a credit card between the roof lining and the interior light cluster, in the centre of the light cluster to push in the bar that releases the catches on either side (see pics). If, like me, you can only get one of the left or right retaining clips to release, shove in a second credit card and the assembly folds easily.
How to access the Interior light module
How the Interior light catch works
The thumb in the second picture above is pressing on the brown bar in the same way that the inserted credit card does. The brown bar is spring loaded and connected to the two catches at each end of the brown bar. When pushed in the catches are released and the light cluster hinges down from the windscreen end.
Wiring the Dash Cam
Constant 12v feed in Interior Light module
The 5v USB feed to the camera will be powered by a plug-in 12v cigarette – 5v USB adapter. The one I chose was one that could be taken apart and adapted by soldering the 12v power cables internally and also allow removal of the metal connectors. Basic scotch-lock connectors were used to attach to the 12v feed, which is available on the connector to the r/h side of the car. The Red wire is +12 and the Brown cable is earth. I did a simple continuity test of the earth cable using a ohm meter.
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