Mounting a dash cam on tinted windows can seem tricky. A common concern is whether the device will capture clear footage behind the darkened glass. Through this blog, we will unravel these doubts, providing you with valuable insights and practical tips to optimize your dash cam usage on tinted windows.
Stick around - not all tints are created equal!
The Impact of Tinted Windows on Dash Cam Visibility
Tinted windows can significantly impact the visibility of a dash cam, making it essential to understand the effects of different types of window tint and how they can affect video quality.
Tint Strip vs. Full Tint
A tint strip and a full tint have distinct impacts on dash cam visibility. The smaller, upper windshield area covered by a tint strip often allows for unobstructed video capture by your dash cam.
Full tints, covering the entire window, can pose more challenges to clear recording due to their wider coverage and high density depending on how dark they are applied. Mounting your cam a few centimeters away from the edge of either types of tint enhances its performance.
However, avoid placing your device at the very extreme edge as this may hinder optimal functionality. It's also important that if you're using adhesive mounts for installation, ensure it's done after the complete drying and curing process of the tint application which usually takes about five days.
Therefore, considering both methods, careful placement and mindful installation are key elements in achieving great results from your dash cams with any type of window tints.
Choosing the Right Dash Cam for Tinted Windows
To ensure optimal visibility through tinted windows, it is important to consider factors such as a removable clear film window tint protector, compatibility with adhesive mounts, and testing with your phone.
Removable Clear Film Window Tint Protector
One option to enhance the visibility of your dash cam through tinted windows is by using a removable clear film window tint protector. This transparent film can be applied to your windshield and provides support for dash cams, radar detectors, and other devices.
By using this protector, you can ensure that your dash cam captures clear and unobstructed footage without compromising the integrity of your window tint. It offers an easy solution to improve the effectiveness of your dash cam while maintaining the privacy benefits of having tinted windows on your vehicle.
Compatibility with Adhesive Mounts
Most dash cams can be easily mounted on tinted windows using adhesive mounts. However, it is important to consider the timing of installation. Make sure that the window tint has been applied and allowed to dry and cure for about five days before installing the dash cam.
This will prevent any potential damage to the newly applied tint. Additionally, when mounting the dash cam on a tinted window, it is recommended to position it a few centimeters away from the edge of the tint to ensure optimal performance and visibility.
Keep in mind that placing the dash cam at the very edge of the tint may obstruct its ability to see through the window effectively. Remember these tips when choosing an adhesive mount for your dash cam on tinted windows.
Testing with Your Phone
You can test the effectiveness of your dash cam in capturing footage through tinted windows using your phone. Simply position your phone inside your vehicle, facing the same direction as your dash cam, and record a video while driving.
Compare the quality and clarity of the footage with and without tinted windows to determine any differences or limitations. This simple test will help you assess how well your dash cam performs when faced with tinted windows, allowing you to make necessary adjustments for optimal visibility and recording.
Tint Protection and Maintenance
Protecting your tint from adhesive damage is crucial for maintaining visibility and preventing any potential harm to your windows.
Safeguarding Your Tint from Adhesive Damage
To protect your tint from adhesive damage when installing a dash cam, it is important to follow a few key steps. First, make sure that the tint on your windows has fully dried and cured before mounting the dash cam with adhesive.
This will help prevent any bubbling or peeling of the tint caused by the adhesive. Additionally, consider using an alternative mounting method that does not require adhesive, such as suction cups or a clip-on mount.
These options allow you to securely attach the dash cam without risking damage to your tinted windows. By taking these precautions, you can safeguard your tint and enjoy clear and unobstructed footage from your dash cam.
Preventing Residue Upon Removal
To prevent residue upon removal of your dash cam from tinted windows, it is important to take some precautions. First, make sure that the adhesive used to mount the dash cam is specifically designed for use on tinted surfaces.
This will help ensure a clean and easy removal without leaving any sticky residue behind. Secondly, before removing the dash cam, gently heat the area with a hairdryer or heat gun.
This will soften the adhesive and make it easier to remove without damaging the tint. Finally, use a plastic pry tool or credit card to carefully lift and peel off the dash cam from one corner, working your way across slowly and evenly.
Conclusion: Can a Dash Cam See Through Tinted Windows?
Dash cams can generally see through tinted windows, but the darkness of the tint may affect visibility. Placement is key - mounting the dash cam a few centimeters away from the edge of the tint can help ensure clear footage.
Consider your setup carefully to capture unobstructed footage and choose a dash cam that works well with tinted windows.
FAQs
1. Can a dash cam see through tinted windows?
Yes, a dash cam can see through tinted windows but the clarity might be affected depending on the severity of the window tint.
2. Will mounting a dash cam on tinted windshield damage it?
The usage of an electrostatic film or clear film protector during mounting can avoid damage to your tinted windshield and increase heat resistance for your dash cam.
3. Is there a need for rear window camera if my car has factory-tinted rear windows?
Having a rear view camera or rear dash cam installation greatly enhances surveillance coverage even with factory-tinted rear windows and improves video recording quality in various lighting conditions.
4. What are some considerations when installing a dash cam on tinted windows?
When installing your device, consider legal considerations related to window tints in different jurisdictions, ensure that you're not removing any existing tint, and check that dashboard glare is minimized.
5. Does having my car's rear window filmed affect the functioning of my rearview camera?
No! Your rearcam should work fine under normal conditions even with window protectors applied over your vehicle's factory-issued window films.
