Common Dash Cam Installation Issues for
VinFast Vehicles

The fundamental issue is that VinFast as a company voids its new vehicle warranties over any hardwired aftermarket electronics, like dash cams. Several of our customers who inquired with VinFast directly confirmed this, and it still applies even when non-destructive approaches like add-a-fuses are used.

This is an issue as owners will be left on the hook for potentially costly repairs—even if they result from factory defects that would otherwise have been covered under warranty. This is not ideal, especially as VinFast vehicles are gaining traction among rideshare drivers and taxi operators, for whom dash cams can be useful.

So, how can you install a dash cam in your VinFast vehicle while leaving its warranty intact?

Consider getting a USB-powered dash cam. While many dash cams require a direct 12V power input, some brands like Philips and VIOFO use a USB connection for power instead. This allows for a simple, unobtrusive, plug-and-play installation using one of the USB ports at the front of the vehicle and a compatible cable, if not the one included with the camera. However, a major drawback to using USB power is that you won’t be able to use parking mode, as the USB ports won’t remain on to keep the dash cam running once the vehicle shuts off.

Consider an OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) power cable. While VinFast may void your vehicle’s warranty over any hardwired accessories, the OBD port can still provide the ACC and constant power sources you would typically get at the fuse box. This method is an easy plug-and-play solution that enables all the same features you get with hardwiring, including parking mode. The most limiting factor is that OBD installation is only available for certain camera brands with OBD cables, such as Thinkware and FineVu. Learn more about OBD Power Installation here.

Consider using a dash cam battery pack. All VinFast vehicles currently sold in North America have a switched 12V cigarette socket in the rear cargo area. While this rear socket can prove difficult to use for a dash cam, you’ll have no problem installing a battery pack like our PowerCell 8 via the cigarette lighter adapter (CLA). The only drawback is that you may need an extended output cable for your dash cam as it’ll have to run from the rear of the vehicle to the front camera on your windshield. Consider measuring the distance from where you plan on installing the battery pack, and where the front camera will sit to determine if you need an extended output cable.

Aside from being another simple plug-and-play solution for parking mode, several perks come with using battery packs in your EV. Most electric and hybrid vehicles have much smaller 12V accessory batteries than their gas and diesel counterparts, meaning a hardwired or OBD-powered dash cam can only run in parking mode for a few hours before shutting off. A battery pack eliminates this issue by providing your dash cam with a dedicated power source for parking mode, while removing all wear and tear on your accessory battery. Learn more about battery packs and EVs here.