Hardwire Dashcam, New Radio with Backup Camera installation?

TALONLUVSWIFI

MEMBER
2007 FORD F-150
5.4L
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
154,000 MILES

Hi, I just had another hit and run while my car was parked. The first time in my corolla last July was 7 days after a not at fault accident so I had to get my bumper fixed anyways, luck right. This time was on June 27th, 2023, in my truck listed above. Someone hit it again while parked but luckily a lady flagged me down with the license plate and I was able to see him parked 100 feet ahead and get pictures, lucky again. I don't think next time will be as fortunate. I could pay BestBuy $100.00 for the dashcam installation and $150.00 for the backup camera installation but I'm self employed as a mechanic and am very eager to learn things as that makes me more money and gets more work. Anyways, I want to clarify that I don't believe these are 2 separate jobs, at least not completely. My issue is finding the accessory wire. I asked the BestBuy tech and he said it's in the fuse box and also radio. I know little about electrical wiring besides splicing wires on my led license. As you can see, for someone who is handy that is new to electrical work somewhat, knowing the right wire, just accessory and ground will save me a ton of headache and confusion. I can do the drilling into the firewall, tucking wires under the frame and A-arm but the accessory and ground sounds intimidating. Ground I read is just a wire connected to a bolt on the frame. I could ask for separate questions but there both cameras dealing with accessory. I need to install a new stereo that supports a rear camera so that's a 3rd request but there all kind of tied together. The stereo absolutely is necessary with the backup camera and both cameras require accessory hardworking. Please, please, please help as a step-by-step breakdown with pictures is so much better than possibly being misled and I'm also building my skills, confidence and abilities to tackle this eventually as work I can offer. I love you guys for all the help you've given me and would be very thankful for assistance in such a complicated process.

2 Replies

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
108,262 POSTS

Installing a dashcam and backup camera in your 2007 Ford F-150, along with a new stereo system, can indeed be a rewarding DIY project. Given that you're a self-employed mechanic with a desire to learn and expand your skills, this can be a great opportunity. Let's break down the process step-by-step.

Dashcam and Backup Camera Installation
Finding the Accessory Wire
Location: The accessory wire, which provides power when the ignition is on, can usually be found in the fuse box or behind the radio.

Fuse Box Approach:

Locate the fuse box, which is typically under the dashboard or near the footwell.
Use a test light or multimeter to identify a fuse that is 'hot' (i.E, live with power) when the ignition is in the 'accessory' or 'on' position but off when the ignition is off.
You can use a 'fuse tap' or 'add-a-fuse' to connect to this circuit.
Radio Approach:

Remove the radio from the dash. This usually involves removing trim pieces and unscrewing the radio unit.
Find the wire that becomes live when the ignition is turned on. It's usually red but always verify with a wiring diagram specific to your model.
Ground Connection

Grounding is simpler. Find a bolt or metal part of the vehicle's frame under the dash. Loosen the bolt, attach your ground wire (usually black), and retighten the bolt.
Wiring the Cameras
Dashcam:

Route the power cable from the dashcam to the fuse box or behind the radio for the accessory connection.
Tuck the wires neatly under the headliner, A-pillars, and dash to keep them out of sight.
Backup Camera:

Route the camera's wires from the rear of the vehicle to the front, hiding them under trim panels or carpet.

The camera should be powered when the vehicle is in reverse. You can connect it to the reverse light circuit in the rear of the vehicle.
If integrating with a new stereo, ensure it has an input for the backup camera.

Stereo Installation
Remove the Old Stereo:

Carefully remove trim and unscrew the existing stereo unit.
Disconnect the wiring harness and antenna.

Install the New Stereo:

Connect the new stereo using a wiring harness adapter specific to your F-150.
Ensure there's a connection for the backup camera.
Secure the new stereo and replace the trim.

Tips and Considerations
Safety First: Disconnect the battery before starting any electrical work.
Wiring Diagrams: Obtain a wiring diagram for your F-150 to identify wire colors and locations accurately.

Tools: You’ll need basic tools like screwdrivers, wire strippers, a multimeter, and possibly some trim removal tools.

Patience and Precision: Take your time, especially with routing wires and making connections.

Here are the radio wiring diagrams. Check out the images (below). Please let us know what happens.

Images (Click to make bigger)