Installing the BlackVue DR770X-2CH Dash Cam via Hardwiring in a 2015 Tesla Model S

Just like any other installation, the first step is to decide where you want to install your dash cam. Tesla cars have sleek and state-of-the-art interiors, with ergonomic panels and screens.

When getting a dash cam, you should pick one that’s built discreetly, something that you can hide behind the rearview mirror. We’re glad that the luxurious and minimalist form factor of the BlackVue DR770X fits perfectly in this car.

The ideal location for the front camera is behind the rearview mirror, with the lens centred on the windshield. This placement allows for a clear view of the road ahead without obstructing your view while driving.

We recommend powering the camera temporarily with the cigarette lighter adapter and pairing the camera with your phone. Through the BlackVue app, we were able to live-view the BlackVue DR770X, enabling us to find the ideal mounting position and viewing angle for this dash camera.

Once you have chosen the location, it’s time to mount the dash cam onto the windshield using the provided adhesive mount.

Typically, the next step is to find the vehicle’s fuse box. For the Tesla Model S, the fuse box is located at the front trunk of the car. However, we were unable to locate an ACC fuse in this fusebox, therefore we had to splice into existing wiring going through the vehicle. This is not too uncommon for Tesla vehicles, as they are always active and powered, the majority of wiring is constantly on. For this install, we spliced into wiring located on the passenger side of the vehicle, tucked in the footwell, behind some of the panelling.

Starting from the camera, we wired across from the passenger’s side of the windshield, through the headliner, to the side A-pillar. From here, it’s just a matter of tucking in wires behind any panels and header of the vehicle. Here, we used the pry tool or a flathead screwdriver to remove the plastic trim pieces along the A-pillar.

When it comes to hardwiring into an EV, it’s important to make sure that you are wiring to the 12-volt accessory battery instead of the main battery. Some EVs will also place their accessory fuse boxes in difficult locations, like the Model S.  

The good news is modern hardwire kits like the BlackVue DR770X’s have built-in voltage monitoring. Through the built-in voltage monitoring, the dash cam constantly monitors the voltage level of the accessory battery. If the voltage drops too low, the dash cam will automatically turn itself off to prevent complete drainage of the vehicle's battery.

BlackVue’s hardwire kit requires a ground connection, and an ACC connection. The ground is simple enough, and finding an unpainted bolt will do, but finding a proper ACC connection is a bit more challenging. We weren’t able to find a proper ACC fuse in the vehicle, so we did end up splicing into existing wiring. Do consult your user manual to find which one is right for you, and also, make sure the fuse tap you’re adding is equal to or higher than the existing fuse you’ve chosen.

We also advise you not to use any of the fuse slots used by any of your vehicle's critical components, such as the airbags and engine modules, for safety. Moreover, you can use a Voltmeter to test these fuses, but feel free to use a Circuit tester which is included in our essential installation package.

Now, the front camera should be powering up properly. Still, we need to get the rear camera of the BlackVue DR770X in place.

Connect the rear camera cable to the front camera. We’ll route the rear coaxial cable along the headliner, past the A, B, and C pillars on the passenger side. Using a Trim Tool or similar tool to get in there can prove helpful, and BlackVue’s thin coaxial cabling makes the tough job easier.

Following from here, we’ll eventually reach the rear windshield. Tesla Model S, despite looking like a sedan, has a liftgate like more difficult hatchbacks. For ideal coverage, we opted to mount it right at the bottom center of the rear window, making sure it’s not covering the defroster grid lines.  

Sometimes, because of the placement of the rear camera, you may end up with footage that is upside down. So like the front camera, you’ll want to check the live-view of the rear camera before mounting, making sure it’s up and running, and using the positioning lines accordingly. If footage is upside-down, rest assured there’s normally a setting in the camera to flip it.

Before hitting the road, test the dash cam to make sure it's working properly. Turn on the car and check if the dash cam turns on automatically. If it doesn't, check the power connections and make sure the dash cam is properly mounted.

Make sure that the camera is properly going into parking mode as you turn on and off the vehicle. If not, check the settings of the camera, and then check your wiring connections.

Now that our cameras are installed, and the wires are well-kept, let's return to the fuse box to clean up the wires. You can use electrical tapes or cable clips to keep the cables bundled up, and put the cover back.

That's it – another proof that dash cams will work and are needed for electric vehicles. With these simple steps, you can easily install a BlackVue DR770X-2CH Dash Cam in your 2015 Tesla Model S. The dash cam will provide you with peace of mind knowing that you have a reliable witness in case of any accidents or incidents on the road!

Planning on installing a dash cam in your car? Check out our Step-by-Step Dash Cam Installation Guide  and our selection of handy installation accessories. And if you ever need a hand during the installation process, just call us; our dash cam specialists are available to help!

Looking to have your dash cam professionally installed, we do offer installation services at our Richmond BC location.

Please see some of our other dash cam installations in the BlackboxMyCar Dash Cam Installation Gallery.