WorldExplorer

I'm looking to install a high quality dash cam in my new S 560 when I get it in a few weeks. Has anyone had good/bad experiences with these? I'm looking at a Garmin 55 or possibly a KDLINKS X1. California law permits mounting in only 3 specific places with tight limitations -- lower left, upper center or upper right. Not sure I could mount one on the back of the rearview mirror given everything else MB has placed in that area. So I'm thinking lower left. Would require snaking the power cord down the left side of the dash then under it and somehow into a usb port. Any ideas/suggestions/recommendations?

Given how people drive here -- red light running is seen daily (and the only town in the area that has red light cameras is ripping them out next month) -- collisions are frequent and often fierce. I want to have a solid record the next time someone crashes into me.

Wolfman

The best cams IMO are Blackvue and Thinkware. Dual channel setup for front and rear. We have the Thinkware F800 Pro and the Blackvue DR750s (which I am replacing with a DR900s with is 4K front, 1080P rear). The Blackvue has been a bit more touchy with heat. The Thinkware cameras are great for night recording. Use a 128GB SD card to have ample recording time fo repacking etc. Plan to spend around $500 plus install ($600 for 4k).

jenz

Just got my Blackvue 900S - been using 2ch Blackvue for awhile with no major complaints

carnut1

I don't see how that will help you if you get hit since it would need to pick up the entire area to be of any use.

WorldExplorer

The Thinkware F800 Pro has a much higher operating and storage temperature rating, so I think I'll be going with that one. Thanks!

WorldExplorer

The cameras I'm considering have a wide field of vision. Got hit by a guy who ran a red light last week and the camera would have shown clearly that I had a green light. Far too many careless and dangerous high speed drivers in this area, so I want to have hard evidence the next time someone crashes into me. Probably won't be long given the number of crazy drivers here (and bizarre intersections).

wilfie

I have a blackvue 2 ch. Works great. Installed top right front under pass sun visor. Stay away from center top windshield electronics. I have heard of interference but also some (like mine) have some wires embedded in the glass there which ruins the view... Run wires across the top under the trim to the left fuse panel then under the door threshold trim up the side of the rear seat to the rear camera. Install the rear camera on the bottom left of the rear window to avoid the blind. Because the rear camera is on a very slopping glass and mine is not swivel adjustable like the front, mount it at a slight off level attitude and you get great coverage of the rear. A little experimenting before glueing it is worthwhile.

Wolfman

I had the Blackvue in the center on the S-Class. Driver side never even sees it as it is (somewhat) covered by the mirror. On the Thinkware, it is place on the passenger side top IR cutout

Detailingdoc

Any pics of where you mounted the rear dash cam? I was thinking of center rear top but was worried about contact with blind. If bottom works and still not obstructed thats be great.

i have a Thinkware F750 front and rear from my old car.

Any issues with running the wires along the pillars and interfering with the airbags if they ever deploy?

Wolfman

wilfie

I like the low mount as it's out of my rear view, It seems too close to the curtain on my car for a center mount. The pic shows a unlevel mount and that's intentional for a good view. I stayed away from airbags by going along the bottom of the car.

Detailingdoc

Thanks for the pic.
i like running it along the base boards but what about the front camera when running it down the A pillar to the fuse box?

wilfie

I stayed away from the airbags on my car. , you have to figure what's best in your car, best for you to get a professional installer than to get advice from me.

Detailingdoc

Thanks for the help!

Nice Ride

Be careful not to Block or Interfere with any Safety Airbags. They are all throughout the car.

wilfie

This from MB a model 221 methinks

Wolfman

Here is a post where it shows the rear camera location we used in our S-Class. Not quite sure what the benefit of the lower side location would be as the field of view is diminished and it's visible. Top center location is not visible from the inside at all.
https://mbworld.org/forums/new-s-cla...ouple-s-2.html
Re. the wires, running the rear camera cable can be run easily underneath the carpet. The wire from the front cam runs down the A-pillar and it's easy run it besides the airbag. The included cable clips hold the cables (front, rear) in place. Lots of space in the A-pillars...