An add-a-fuse is what that allows you to add additional circuit(s) to your vehicle's fuse box without having to splice into the vehicle's wiring. To use an add-a-fuse, follow these steps.
A popular option for hardwiring a dash cam into the vehicle's fuse box is an add-a-fuse kit (also known as a fuse tap or add-a-circuit). This method provides a more professional appearance and is more secure in the long run than wrapping the wires around the fuse legs.
One thing you should be aware of is that the add-a-fuse can be wired in backwards. This is due to the way they are wired internally.
The fuse box's hot side should be the side opposite the new wire ("12v in'' side). Furthermore, the original fuse must be located at the bottom.
When used backwards, the original fuse becomes the fuse for both the original load and the new load, so if it pops, both circuits will be shut down, rather than just the circuit with the over-current issue.
You can use a multimeter to double-check your add-a-fuse. Insert the first probe into the lower slot on the "12v in'' side, and the second into the leg on the "Accessory out" side.
If there is continuity, the lower slot is the original fuse slot. If the first probe does not show continuity, move it to the top slot. The top slot is your original fuse slot if it shows continuity.
Because you'll most likely be doing this with the car turned off, you'll need to use continuity check once more.
Place the first probe on a ground point near your fuse box; any ground will suffice.
After that, insert the second probe into one of the circuit's slots. The hot side is the one that lacks continuity.
If both sides show continuity, something is shorting out that circuit, then it should be repaired by a certified professional.
Setting up an add-a-fuse kit and hardwiring can be done in your garage, but if you need a step-by-step help, you can check out our Installation Guides below! You can also drop by BlackboxMyCar in Richmond if you want to have your dash cam installed by our professional installers.
If you have more questions, feel free to send us a message and we'll be happy to help right away!
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