Just a dad trying to do something right

[MedX.Medic]

I bought a 2020 Kia Sportage for my daughter's college commute and wanted to install a dashcam to keep an eye on things. I found a spare fuse slot under the dashboard and ran the wires through the firewall. Used a multimeter to confirm the power source, connected the camera, and still nothing. The dash cam powers fine when plugged in, so I know it works. I'm wondering if the Sportage uses a different voltage setup than other cars or if there's a ground connection I missed. Any tips from someone who's done this before?

 

[noreem85]

I think you've done all the right steps, but some Kia Sportage models have switched or fused circuits that only provide power when the ignition is on , or they may require a proper ground connection. Check that the fuse slot you used is actually live and that your ground is solid,, sometimes grounding to a bolt under the dash works better than tapping sheet metal.

 

[MedX.Medic]

I think you've done all the right steps, but some Kia Sportage models have switched or fused circuits that only provide power when the ignition is on , or they may require a proper ground connection. Check that the fuse slot you used is actually live and that your ground is solid,, sometimes grounding to a bolt under the dash works better than tapping sheet metal.

I checked the fuse slot with a multimeter and saw voltage when the ignition was on, so I thought that part was fine. Now I'm starting to think the ground I used might not be solid enough. I grounded it near the firewall but not to a bolt. Next, I'll try using one of the dash bolts for the ground and see if that helps. If not, I'll test a different fuse slot that I know is switched with the ignition. Did you have any trouble with fuse leg length or clearance when you did yours? I found it was a pretty tight fit getting the add-a-fuse in place.