BMW 6 Series GT Dash Cam Installation Review

Professional Dash Cam Installation for Your BMW 6 Series GT

Considering a dash cam for your BMW 6 Series GT? This review details a professional installation experience in South Korea, focusing on the benefits of high-quality recording, enhanced parking security, and the overall value proposition. The owner of a BMW 6 Series GT (G32) sought to upgrade their vehicle's safety and convenience, opting for a premium dash cam and a reliable power solution. This installation included the high-spec i-Box QX dash cam and a Cellstar SF100 auxiliary battery, alongside a ceramic coating for paint protection. The goal was to ensure clear, continuous recording both while driving and parked, offering peace of mind.

i-Box QX Dash Cam: Crystal Clear Recording

The BMW 6 Series GT owner, having purchased the vehicle used, found the existing dash cam's video quality unsatisfactory. They chose the i-Box QX, a top-tier model known for its exceptional clarity and low power consumption. This efficiency is crucial, as it maximizes the operating time of the auxiliary battery, leading to longer parking mode recording durations. The dash cam was strategically positioned to cover blind spots effectively. Wiring was meticulously managed using sound-dampening tape to prevent any rattling or noise during driving. In this specific case, the owner requested to keep the existing dash cam operational, so the new i-Box QX was installed alongside it, enabling dual-channel recording. The removal of the old unit was performed free of charge.

Cellstar SF100 Auxiliary Battery: Uninterrupted Parking Mode

To guarantee continuous recording even when the vehicle is parked, the Cellstar SF100 auxiliary battery was installed securely in the trunk. All connections were carefully protected with sound-dampening tape, and the power was routed through the fuse box for a safe and clean finish, avoiding any warning lights. The Cellstar SF100 charges only when the engine is running and, once fully charged, can power the dash cam for approximately 70 hours. This battery is designed with safety in mind, mitigating fire risks, and comes with product liability insurance and a 2-year warranty. When selecting an auxiliary battery, it's vital to consider the dash cam's power draw. A low-consumption dash cam like the i-Box QX will allow a battery of the same capacity to record for significantly longer periods. Therefore, choosing a compatible dash cam and battery combination is key for optimal parking mode performance.

Installation Process:

1. Dash Cam Mounting: The dash cam is precisely positioned on the windshield to ensure optimal field of view and minimize blind spots.
2. Wiring Integration: Power and ground wires are carefully routed through the vehicle's interior, often utilizing existing channels and secured with sound-dampening tape to prevent noise.
3. Fuse Box Connection: For hardwired installations, the dash cam's power is connected to the vehicle's fuse box, typically using an add-a-circuit fuse tap for a safe and professional connection.
4. Auxiliary Battery Setup: If installed, the auxiliary battery is securely mounted (e.g., in the trunk) and connected to the vehicle's charging system and the dash cam.
5. Testing and Finalization: The system is tested to ensure both cameras are recording correctly, parking mode is active, and all connections are secure.

Ceramic Coating for Paint Protection

The BMW 6 Series GT, despite being a pre-owned vehicle, had an excellent paint finish. The owner inquired about paint correction and ceramic coating. Given the paint's pristine condition, extensive polishing was deemed unnecessary, and only the ceramic coating was applied. This treatment offers up to three years of protection with proper maintenance and comes with an electronic warranty, which can be useful for insurance claims in case of accidents. Ceramic coating helps maintain the vehicle's gloss and protects the paint from environmental contaminants.

Cost Considerations: The exact cost for dash cam and auxiliary battery installation can vary based on the specific products chosen, the complexity of the vehicle's wiring, and the labor rates. In South Korea, such installations typically range from ₩300,000 to ₩800,000 (approximately $225 to $600 USD), depending on the components. For this BMW 6 Series GT, the combined cost for the i-Box QX, Cellstar SF100, and installation was within this range. It's always best to get a detailed quote after a vehicle inspection.