Best Dash Cams for Subaru Outback Models: Top Picks

Finding the Right Dash Cam for Your Subaru Outback

Installing a dash cam in your Subaru Outback can provide you with video evidence in the event of an accident or other incident on the road. With so many dash cam models on the market, it can be tricky to determine which one is the best fit for your needs and your car.

Key Features to Look for in a Dash Cam

When evaluating dash cams for your Outback, there are a few key features you'll want to consider:

• Video quality - At a minimum, you'll want 1080P HD video capture. 4K video is ideal if you want the highest level of detail.
• Viewing angle - A viewing angle between 120-140 degrees will properly capture the entire road and not just the area directly in front of your car.
• Night vision - To capture clear footage at night, you need a dash cam with night vision capabilities.
• GPS - Dash cams with built-in GPS can record your driving route, location, and speed.
• Parking mode - This feature uses motion sensors to record any incidents that occur while your car is parked.

Hardwire vs Powered Installation

Dash cams get power by either being hardwired directly to your car's electrical system or powered via your vehicle's 12V cigarette lighter or OBD-II port. Both installation methods have their pros and cons:

• Hardwired: Video is recorded whenever your vehicle is on, power source won't get unplugged, no need to manage cables. However, installation cost is higher and it's not portable between vehicles.
• Powered: Much easier DIY installation, ability to move the dash cam between cars with no hardwiring needed. Downsides are remembering to manually turn it on/off and making sure device doesn't lose power.

Recommended Dash Cams for the Subaru Outback

Based on Outback owner needs and dash cam features, here are my top picks:

Rove R2-4K Dash Cam

The Rove R2-4K shoots crystal clear 4K video day and night. Key features that make it a great Subaru Outback dash cam option:

• Ultra HD 2160p video
• Night vision with F1.6 aperture
• Built-in WiFi for viewing recordings on your phone
• GPS capabilities to track drives
• Parking monitor activates recording if car is bumped
• Low profile, discrete appearance

Garmin Dash Cam 67W

Garmin is a top brand in navigation and the 67W dash cam offers excellent video backed by driver awareness alerts:

• 1440p video with HDR for increased detail
• 140-degree viewing angle to capture entire road
• Forward collision and lane departure warnings
• Voice control for hands-free camera operation
• Clarity HDR captures increased detail in bright and low-light conditions

Vantrue N4 3 Channel Dash Cam

A 3-channel dash cam to fully document front, interior, and rear video simultaneously. Strong reasons to pick for your Outback:

• Triple 1440p cameras with night vision
• 24 hr motion-activated parking monitor
• Heat-resistant Supercapacitor
• Overwrite lock feature so critical recordings aren't deleted
• Wide temperature functioning from -20° to 176°F

Dash Cam Installation Tips

Once you select the right Subaru Outback dash cam model for your needs, you can complete a successful DIY installation by following these tips:

Choose an Optimal Location

Find a section of windshield free from tinting that provides your dash cam a wide scope of the road. Typically behind the rearview mirror is preferred. Ensure there's no obstruction from wiper blades.

Adjust Camera Angle

Before permanently mounting, temporality place dash cam and adjust angle while viewing live footage on an app. Ensure view captures lanes and as far ahead/behind as needed.

Attach Mount Securely

Thoroughly clean windshield mounting area before applying adhesive mount. Firmly press into place according to manufacturer directions to assure dash cam stays fixed in vibrations.

Hide and Secure Wires

Tuck wire into trim panels and headliners neatly using trim removal tools. Use wire clips and tacks to prevent sagging and obstruction. Confirm no wire contact with airbags or critical components.

Following these practical installation best practices helps guarantee your Subaru Outback dash cam performs reliably for years to come while withstanding bumps and all types of road conditions.

FAQs

Do I need a special dash cam for my Subaru Outback?

No, most quality dash cams on the market are perfectly compatible with the Subaru Outback. You just need to ensure the camera mount properly fits on your windshield and can withstand vibration.

Where is the best placement for a dash cam in an Outback?

Behind the rearview mirror is ideal so the camera view is unobstructed. Check that no tinting, windshield wipers or other accessories block the camera view.

Will a dash cam drain my Outback's battery?

A hardwired dash camera draws minimal power and will not drain your battery when installed properly. Powered options run through the lighter socket so also pose little risk of battery drain.

Is it difficult to install a dash cam in an Outback?

Modern dash cams come with user-friendly installation. Hardwired cameras require professional installation. Powered models can easily be mounted with adhesive pads by carefully following the manual.