How to install Thinkware Dash Cam in Your Tesla with iVolt External Battery

Why Install a Dash Cam in Your Tesla?

Tesla's built-in dash cam has a limited resolution (1280x960) and viewing angle (60 degrees). On the other hand, in the case of professional dashcams, the lowest image quality is 1920x1080 and supports up to 4K. The general viewing angle is 120 degrees or more, so more details and situations can be recorded.

Also, Tesla's built-in dashcam does not record sound. In this case, the sound of a collision due to a minor accident or a conversation with the other person, etc., cannot be recorded.

Most professional dash cams can also save video to a smartphone through a wireless mobile app connection in addition to this method compared to Tesla's which doesn't come with this feature.

Why Install a Dash Cam with an External Battery?

When using a dashcam-specific external battery, the external battery is charged through the vehicle's accessory battery while driving, and the dashcam uses power from this external battery during parking mode, so you do not have to worry about consuming the vehicle's main battery.

Additionally, to use the dashcam parking mode, you usually need to hardwire the fuse box or use an OBD-II cable, but Tesla does not have a typical fuse box and OBD-II port. Therefore, you must install a dash cam using an external battery to use parking mode without worrying about depleting the vehicle battery.

How to Install iVolt Xtra External Battery

1. Remove Seat Kick Panels: Begin by removing the center kick panels on both the driver and passenger sides.

2. Disassemble Center Console: Proceed to remove the center console, focusing on the card key recognition section.

3.Connect the TESLA POWER BRIDGE CABLE (Y Cable) and Input Cable: Utilize the TESLA POWER BRIDGE CABLE (Y cable) to connect with the input cable of the iVolt Xtra battery. Ensure a proper connection by linking the red and B+ cables, and the black and Ground cables.

* Not Compatible with 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland

4. Thread Cable Through Center Kick Spaces: Insert the input cable through the spaces in the driver and passenger seat center kicks, utilizing the open center console area.

* Not Compatible with 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland

5.Connect the TESLA POWER BRIDGE CABLE (Y Cable) to Tesla’s Socket: Securely connect the two sockets of the TESLA POWER BRIDGE CABLE (Y cable) to the corresponding Tesla socket.

* Not Compatible with 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland

6.Organize the TESLA POWER BRIDGE CABLE (Y Cable) and Reassemble Console: Neatly organize the TESLA POWER BRIDGE CABLE (Y cable) and reassemble the center console, ensuring a clean and tidy setup.

* Not Compatible with 2024 Tesla Model 3 Highland

7. Connect Input and Output Cable to Battery: Attach the input and output cables to the iVolt Xtra battery.

8. Secure Battery with Velcro Tape: Place the battery into the designated space and use Velcro tape to securely fasten it in place.

9. Remove Driver's Side Panel and Pedal Top Cover: Remove the panel on the driver's side and the top cover of the pedals for easier access.

10. Prepare for ACC-IN Cable: Extract the visible white connector to facilitate the connection process.

* The location of the connector and cable may vary depending on the Year and Model.

Connect ACC-IN Cable: Connect the ACC-IN cable from the output cable to the red cable connection at the bottom left, securing it in place with electrical tape.

* The ACC cable from the connector may vary depending on the Year and Model.

How to install Thinkware U3000 dashcam

1. Connect the battery output cable and the dashcam hardwiring cable. Ensure a color-coded match and then route the hardwiring cable to the designated front camera installation location.

2. Organize the rear camera cable. Reach its installation point and proceed to install the rear camera. The optimal positioning is at the top center of the rear window.

3. Apply heat-blocking film and affix the front camera. Once the front camera's installation location is determined, apply the heat-blocking film to the windshield before affixing the front camera and securing it in place with the mount.

4. Connect the DC Power Jack, communication cable, and rear camera cable to their respective ports on the dash cam.

5. to enable voice notifications for the remaining battery level, ensure that you activate the ‘Use External Battery’ option within the Thinkware Dash Cam Link app.

A comprehensive guide on how to install the Thinkware U3000 dashcam with the iVolt Xtra external battery in your Tesla.

For additional tips and techniques, check out our 'How to install Dash Cam' video and the 'Top 5 Tips to Hide Dash Cam Cables' video.