Installing a dash cam is a smart move for drivers like you. It can help protect you on the road and avoid unnecessary trouble. Before installing one, it’s important to understand the dash cam installation cost in Malaysia. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know—from installation prices to what you should expect when getting it done.
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How Much Does Dash Cam Installation Cost in Malaysia?
Here’s the good news: the dash cam installation cost in Malaysia is quite affordable! Here’s a quick summary:
|
Type of Dash Cam Installation |
Estimated Cost (RM) |
Details |
|
Front-facing dash cam only |
RM50 – RM100 |
Basic installation, simple wiring |
|
Front + rear dash cam (dual-channel) |
RM100 – RM200 |
More complex installation, includes rear camera |
|
DIY installation |
RM0 (if you do it yourself) |
Free if you have the tools and know-how |
|
Professional mobile installer |
RM150 – RM250 (approx.) |
They come to your location, more convenient |
|
Car accessory shop/service centre |
RM50 – RM200 |
The price may vary based on whether you buy the dash cam from them |
Types of Dash Cam Installations (And What They Cost)
Not all dash cam setups are the same. Some just plug into your 12V socket, while others are wired neatly into your fuse box. Here's a breakdown:
Basic Plug-and-Play (12V Socket) – RM0–RM50
Who’s this for?
This is perfect for those of us who just want a simple, no-fuss setup. If you're a budget-conscious driver, renting a car regularly, or using a company vehicle (like for Grab or Lalamove), this is the go-to method. It doesn’t require any wiring know-how, and you can install or remove it as needed.
Cost breakdown:
- Dash cam unit: RM100 – RM300
You can find decent models for this price range on Shopee or Lazada. These are good enough for daily use.
- Installation: Free (DIY) or RM30–RM50 if you get someone to help fit it neatly.
Some car accessory shops might even do it for free if you buy the dash cam from them.
How does it work?
You just plug the power cable into your car’s 12V socket (also known as the cigarette lighter port), mount the cam on your windshield, and you’re good to go. Some models automatically turn on and off with your car, so you won’t even need to touch it again after setup.
Pros:
- Super easy setup — No need to open up your dashboard or mess with wires.
- Portable — You can move it between cars, especially if you travel often or drive multiple cars.
- No risk to car warranty — Since you're not touching the internal wiring, your manufacturer’s warranty stays safe.
Cons:
- Messy cables — The wire will run from the top of your windshield down to the power socket. Not exactly the prettiest look.
- Takes up your 12V socket — If you’re already using it for your phone charger, USB adapter, or air purifier, this might be a problem.
- No parking mode — Since it relies on engine power, the dash cam won’t record anything while the car is off (unless you leave the key in ACC mode — but who wants to risk draining their battery, right?).
Pro Tip: Use a cable tuck tool, plastic card, or even a butter knife wrapped in cloth to gently push the wires into the headliner or along the A-pillar. It’s a DIY fix that makes your setup look way tidier.
Hardwired Installation – RM150–RM300
Who’s this for?
If you’re serious about safety and use your car daily — like commuters, road-trippers, or ride-hailing drivers — hardwiring is the upgrade you want. It gives your dash cam constant power, so it can keep an eye on your car even when it’s parked.
Cost breakdown:
- Dash cam unit: RM300 – RM700+
Some popular choices offer higher resolution and parking mode features. - Hardwire kit: RM40 – RM80
Includes voltage control to avoid draining your battery. They are often sold separately. - Installation labour: RM100 – RM200
It depends on the complexity of your car and whether it’s a sedan, hatchback, or SUV.
How does it work?
Hardwiring connects your dash cam directly to the car’s fuse box. The installer will usually hide the wires behind panels, route everything neatly, and configure the dash cam to power up with the ignition and continue running for a short time after you turn off the engine.
This setup is needed if you want to activate parking surveillance mode — a feature that records even when your engine is off, which is useful for spotting vandals, hit-and-runs, or suspicious activity around your car at night.
Pros:
- Neat and clean finish — All wires are tucked in, giving it a professional look.
- Enables parking mode — Helps protect your car 24/7, not just while driving.
- More secure power connection — No random disconnections or loose plugs.
Cons:
- Could void warranty — Some manufacturers may say tampering with the fuse box voids your warranty. Always check with your service center first.
- Needs professional help — Unless you’re super confident with car electronics, it's not recommended as a DIY project.
- Takes time — The install might take 1–2 hours, or longer if your car has tricky paneling.
Front + Rear Dash Cam Install – RM200–RM400+
Who’s this for?
This setup is for anyone who wants complete coverage — front and back. This is useful for condo parking, roadside parking, or if you want proof in case someone rear-ends you and blames you (yes, it happens more often than you think).
Cost breakdown:
- Dash cam set (front + rear): RM400 – RM1000
Dual-channel dash cams are popular choices. - Installation: RM150 – RM350+
More expensive because rear cam wiring needs to be routed through the cabin, tailgate, or boot.
How does it work?
The front cam works as usual, while the rear cam captures everything happening behind your car. Most are connected by a long cable that runs from the front to the back, hidden under carpet, roof liner, or plastic trims. Some high-end models use wireless rear cams, but those can be pricier and less stable depending on your car’s body type.
Pros:
- Covers both ends — You’ll never miss footage of a car that crashes into you from the back or a motorcycle squeezing through traffic.
- Rear cam can help with reversing — Some models let you view the rear feed on the dash cam screen like a reverse cam.
- Peace of mind during parking — You get full 360° awareness when paired with parking mode.
Cons:
- Labour-intensive install — Wires often need to go through rubber grommets, lift gates, and plastic trims. More time and skill required = higher labour cost.
- Calibration issues — Rear cams must be aligned properly or your footage will look crooked or tilted.
- Warranty concerns — As with hardwiring, improper install could affect your car’s warranty.
What Affects the Dash Cam Installation Cost?
The price isn't fixed, you know. Several things can make the dash cam installation cost go up or down:
Your Car Model
Some cars are easier to work with. Others, especially continental cars or cars with more complex interiors, might take more time. This can bump up the dash cam installation cost.
Type of Installation
- Basic Installation (Hiding Wires to Cigarette Lighter): This is cheaper. Wires are tucked away, but it still uses your 12V socket.
- Hardwiring to the Fuse Box: This is usually a bit more expensive. It’s needed for parking mode and gives a super clean setup. This directly impacts the dash cam installation cost.
The Shop
- Location: A shop in a fancy mall in KL might charge more than a neighborhood shop in Ipoh.
- Reputation and Skill: Well-known shops with experienced installers might have a higher dash cam installation cost. But you often pay for quality and reliability.
Hidden Costs You Might Not Think Of
Okay, so maybe you’ve already set aside RM500 for your new dash cam and install. Great! But don’t be surprised if a few extra charges sneak in during installation. Here are some hidden (but common) add-ons that might catch you off guard:
Fuse Tap Adapter – RM10–RM20
If you're going for hardwiring, this tiny piece of hardware is a must. It lets your installer safely draw power from your car's fuse box without cutting or splicing wires. Most dash cam kits don’t include this, so you’ll probably need to buy it separately.
Some installers include it in their package, so always ask beforehand to avoid paying double.
Parking Mode Module – RM80–RM200
Certain dash cams (especially Korean or premium Japanese brands) require a separate module to run safely in parking mode. This module ensures your car battery doesn’t die while your cam records while parked.
Bonus: Some modules let you set voltage cutoffs — so the dash cam shuts down before your battery goes flat.
Labour Charge for Panel Removal – RM50–RM100
If your car’s paneling is tricky to remove (like in some newer SUVs or imported cars), installers might charge extra to safely open up and reinstall the panels without damaging clips or wiring.
- Continental cars like BMW, Audi, or Peugeot are famous for this.
- Some SUVs with third-row seats or tailgate-mounted rear cams also require more labour time.
Memory Card Upgrade – RM40–RM150
Not all SD cards are created equal, okay? Don’t just toss in any cheapo microSD you found in your kitchen drawer. What you need is a high-endurance microSD card that can handle constant recording, overwriting, and heat.
Cheap memory cards can corrupt easily, and that means missing footage right when you need it most.
Extra Long Wiring – RM20–RM50
If your car is longer than average (SUVs, MPVs, vans), the standard cables that come in the box might not be enough, especially for rear cams. Your installer may need to use longer video/power cables, which can cost a little extra.
Tips Before You Send Your Car for Installation
- Survey First: Ask a few different shops for their dash cam installation cost. Don't just go to the first one.
- Check Reviews: See what other people say about the shop's workmanship. You don't want your car interior scratched, right?
- Ask About Warranty: Does the shop offer any warranty on their installation work? What if something goes wrong later?
- Be Clear on What You Want: Tell them if you want hardwiring, parking mode activated, and where you prefer the camera placed (as long as it's safe and legal).
- Confirm the Final Price: Before they start work, confirm the total dash cam installation cost to avoid any surprise charges.
Should You Install It Yourself?
Here’s the age-old question: Should I DIY my dash cam? Well, it depends. If you’re tech-savvy, have some patience, and don’t mind doing a bit.
You can DIY if:
- You’re just installing a single front cam using the 12V socket
- You’ve got basic tools (screwdriver, cable tucker, zip ties)
- You're okay with a few visible wires
- You're installing on a simple car
There are hundreds of tutorial videos on YouTube — even specific to Malaysian car models.
Better to get professional help if:
- You want hardwiring or parking mode
- You’re installing a rear camera
- You drive a continental or hybrid vehicle
- You’re afraid of triggering airbag sensors or messing up your car’s warranty
FYI: Some dash cam setups can accidentally interfere with your car’s electrical system (like interfering with your start/stop feature or triggering error codes). That’s why we recommend letting pros handle hardwired installs.
Where to Get It Installed in Malaysia?
There’s no shortage of places to get your dash cam installed, but prices, service quality, and warranty coverage vary a lot. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Car Accessory Shops
What they offer:
- In-store dash cam purchase + installation
- Familiar with most local and Japanese/Korean cars
- Some offer package deals (buy + install)
Average price: RM100 – RM300
Good for: Those who want quick, reliable service without shopping online
Bonus: Walk-in friendly, and you can often negotiate the price if you're installing other accessories at the same time.
Online Marketplaces + Installer Package (Shopee/Lazada)
What they offer:
- Some sellers include installation via third-party partners
- Coverage available in Klang Valley, Johor, Penang, and major cities
Average price: RM80 – RM200 (installation only)
Good for: Online buyers who want to get everything delivered + installed at home or office
Tip: Always check reviews and the installer's coverage area before ordering. Some sellers offer on-site service (the installer comes to your house), which is super convenient.
Authorised Service Centres (Perodua, Proton, Toyota, etc.)
What they offer:
- Installation that won’t void warranty
- Only compatible with selected dash cam models (usually OEM or official partners)
Average price: RM200 – RM500
Good for: Brand new cars still under warranty
Heads up: Most of these dash cams are basic 720p or 1080p units and might not offer advanced features like GPS, parking mode, or rear cams.
Independent Mobile Installers (Facebook, WhatsApp, TikTok)
What they offer:
- Freelance or part-time pros who install at your home, condo, or office
- Often have years of experience and offer good value
Average price: RM100 – RM250
Good for: Busy people who don’t want to drive to a shop
How to find them? Search Facebook groups like:
- “Dash Cam Malaysia Community”
- “Kereta Mod Malaysia”
- “DIY Kereta Group Malaysia”
You can also check local car forums or TikTok, where many installers showcase their work. Just look for reviews and before/after photos for peace of mind.
Final Thoughts
Getting a dash cam is a great investment for your safety and peace of mind on the roads. The dash cam installation cost is just a small part of that. Spending a bit extra for a professional, clean installation can save you headaches later. Plus, a neatly installed dash cam just looks so much better.
So, do your research, find a good installer, and drive safely, everyone! Don't let the dash cam installation cost scare you away from this important car accessory.