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Blackvue camera(s) install. Will it drain the 12V batteries ?? Do I dare ???

onthebrake

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So, I've been running Blackvue cameras in my last truck and currently in my MBZ AMG. I really want to install them in my Rivian R1T to capture what idiot drivers due and in case of accident, but do I dare ?? Will it drain my 12V batteries ? I really want to add Battery Tender leads to the 12V batteries, to trickle charge at home, but hesitant to touch the electrical system, hahahaha.
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godfodder0901

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So, I've been running Blackvue cameras in my last truck and currently in my MBZ AMG. I really want to install them in my Rivian R1T to capture what idiot drivers due and in case of accident, but do I dare ?? Will it drain my 12V batteries ? I really want to add Battery Tender leads to the 12V batteries, to trickle charge at home, but hesitant to touch the electrical system, hahahaha.
Dash cam functionality is said to be coming s00n...
 

ajdelange

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Will it drain my 12V batteries ?
Yes, of course it will. And when they are drained far enough the DC/DC converter will kick in and recharge them from the traction battery. Thie cameras' loads will contribute to the dreaded phantom drain.
 
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onthebrake

onthebrake

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Yes, of course it will. And when they are drained far enough the DC/DC converter will kick in and recharge them from the traction battery. Thie cameras' loads will contribute to the dreaded phantom drain.
As I assumed . . . thanks for confirming. That's why I haven't installed them. Bummer.
 

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opnwide

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I’ve heard the 12V under the dash is switched, so should turn off when vehicle turns off, but it seems the Rivian has insomnia.
 

U100

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Like onthebrake, I can’t stand not having a dashcam in each of my vehicles. I transferred my BlackVue DR750S-2Ch system from my last vehicle; works great in the Rivian! I ran the power wire (with cigarette plug) down the passenger-side A pillar and plugged it in to the power port underneath the center of the dash. This port is essentially ignition switched - meaning it’s not powered up until you enter the vehicle and step on the brake. So, while truck is on and driving I have the BlackVue operating; then when parked and powered down Gear Guard is watching out. Didn’t have to splice into any wiring or even remove any trim pieces to install both front & rear cameras - just tucked the wiring up underneath.

I’d much rather have dashcam functionality via all the built-in cameras, but this setup will suffice until we get that OTA update.
 

Taco

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Watching - I'd like to have it on all the time personally. I have a blackvue hard wired in my MX and hopefully by the time I get my R1T someone has figured out how to hardwire one for constant coverage.

Nothing wrong with having 2 systems watching over your car.
 

Siguy90

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I have a DR900S hardwired in my BMW. I just tapped into the fuse box with power going to an always on fuse and a signal wire tapped into a switched fuse. I also used a Power Magic Pro and have it set to record for a max of 8 hours when the car is off or if the battery drops below a certain voltage. I plan on using that dashcam in the Rivian but I am not sure if I can install it the same way and not have it cause battery drain issues. Another option I was looking at was the Power Magic Ultra Battery. That will allow the camera to run when the car is only on and allow the battery to charge while driving so that there is power to run the dashcam when parked.
 

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Taco

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Did anyone get a blackvue or anything setup yet? Any idea where the fuse box is? Seems like that is always the easiest way to get constant power.

Yes I know the dashcam is coming s00n but I'd prefer something external, plus having a 4k camera somewhat ensures if you need to zoom in on a plate you can.
 

CommodoreAmiga

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Did anyone get a blackvue or anything setup yet? Any idea where the fuse box is? Seems like that is always the easiest way to get constant power.

Yes I know the dashcam is coming s00n but I'd prefer something external, plus having a 4k camera somewhat ensures if you need to zoom in on a plate you can.
Fuse box is under the dash on the passenger side (above where their feet would be)
 

boredcleaner

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Ya, so they say. I also thought we were getting ''Pet Mode'' in this last update, but didn't happen.
Wait, what? I got pet mode with the update. Even tested it out for fun.
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