Is there a constant hot source up top?
FitcamX sells the cables you need to enable parking mode:
https://fitcamx.com/products/fuse-box-cable-kit-for-fitcamx?variant=40559252209836
@Dru
Just so you know, unless the Lightning has changed things, this setup doesn’t provide 24/7 recording.
In my previous car, it always powered on but only recorded when it sensed an impact.
Indra said:
@Dru
Just so you know, unless the Lightning has changed things, this setup doesn’t provide 24/7 recording.
In my previous car, it always powered on but only recorded when it sensed an impact.
That’s exactly what I’m looking for.
Do you want it running all the time?
Laurel said:
Do you want it running all the time?
I just bought this and I’m waiting for it to arrive. Does running it all the time drain the 12v battery quickly? I assumed it would go into standby mode while the truck is off and use very little power unless it detects something.
FitCamX has a ‘Parking Mode Cable’ that lets you use parking mode 24/7. I didn’t go that route because I’ve heard about problems with the 12V battery. If I wired it, I would have run the wire across the top of the windshield and down the passenger side A-pillar for power.
As for the camera quality, I think it’s great. I’ve used it a few times. My main issue is connecting to it when using my AA and/or CP. I usually have to disconnect from the car to connect to the camera. The downloads are a bit slow with Bluetooth, and I’m not a fan of the app interface. It’s tough to find what you need. One complaint I have is that the camera button on the cam should lock the current stream for easier access.
@Skyler
> passenger side A pillar for power
This is sort of my question too. Is there a constant power source overhead, and if not, where can I find power in the passenger footwell area?
Just FYI, there are low voltage disconnection modules. I can’t endorse this one, but here is an example: https://www.amazon.com/Electronics-Salon-Voltage-Disconnect-Protect-Prolong/dp/B019F3BEIO/ref=asc_df_B019F3BEIO?mcid=3d7ec56c58e13c05a1429bee08c4acad&tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=693458464558&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=3793594733066402792&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9193836&hvtargid=pla-393324203985&psc=1
@Dana
I’m not sure if there’s a constant power source above the mirror, but there is definitely power there somewhere. I connected to the inside fuse box in the passenger footwell. I believe fuse 4 is labeled as the driver’s door (always hot) on some lists.
You could use an old phone plugged into the USB in the console for the dash cam and keep your current phone free for CarPlay and such.
Works for me—my iPhone 7 Plus is great for the cam, leaving my iPhone 14 open for CarPlay. Plus, in an accident, I can show the footage to officers without giving up my main phone.
The Fitcam looks good, but its image quality and user interface don’t compare well to other dash cams.
There are overhead lights and switches, so yes, there should be power there.
Aza said:
There are overhead lights and switches, so yes, there should be power there.
I’d love to know where or which wires.
Aza said:
There are overhead lights and switches, so yes, there should be power there.
I’d love to know where or which wires.
If you’re unsure about schematics, get a multimeter and check for 12V going to the lights when the switches are off.
Schematics will have pinouts for those connectors. Most manufacturers have consistent color codes throughout their vehicles.
@Aza
Those are good last resorts… The hope is that since the Lightning has been around for four model years, someone might have already figured this out and could tell me the specific wires.
I would suggest getting a reliable dash cam that comes with a hardwire cable for the fuse panel, like Thinkware or Blackvue.
Washington said:
I would suggest getting a reliable dash cam that comes with a hardwire cable for the fuse panel, like Thinkware or Blackvue.
So, are you implying the Fitcam isn’t a good choice? I was really considering buying it.
@Presley
For the price, you’re not really getting the same reliability or quality as established Korean brands like Thinkware and BlackVue. Those brands have solid reputations with better camera sensors and proven performance over the years, while FitcamX often feels like a rebranded ‘Amazon special’ dash cam. If you’re spending that much money, it makes sense to invest in something with a strong track record for image quality and customer support. There are even reviews about it not recording at times.
Here are some links: https://www.toyotanation.com/threads/toyota-dashcam-beware-of-fitcamx.1778517/
https://www.polestar-forum.com/threads/fitcamx-users.9506/
@Washington
Right now, FitcamX on Amazon is selling ‘like new’ products—a front camera for $100 and both front and rear for $180. I’ve had great luck with Amazon’s ‘like new’, getting items that seem unused and still in sealed bags. I’m okay with lightly used, but if I get a damaged product, I can just return it and claim it as ‘not as described’.
Washington said:
I would suggest getting a reliable dash cam that comes with a hardwire cable for the fuse panel, like Thinkware or Blackvue.
Do you think FitcamX is a poor quality dash cam? I’m still debating it myself. I’m not keen on the OEM look, but I’m considering Garmin too. Which brand has the best app for access?