Nissan Rogue 2016 and Newer Rear Dash Camera Installation Guide

When it comes to installing a rear dash camera on a Nissan Rogue, especially models from 2016 and newer, there are some unique challenges that need to be addressed. As a dash cam specialist at Safe Drive Solutions, I’ve worked extensively with these vehicles and want to share a detailed walkthrough on how to properly install a rear camera, ensuring a clean and professional setup. Whether you are a car enthusiast, a DIY installer, or a professional technician, this guide will provide you with valuable insights into the process.

Why Install a Rear Dash Camera on Your Nissan Rogue?

Rear dash cameras are essential for capturing footage behind your vehicle, helping protect you from hit-and-runs, parking lot incidents, and rear-end collisions. The Nissan Rogue, being a popular SUV, benefits greatly from a rear camera due to its size and rear visibility limitations. However, the design of the Rogue presents some installation challenges that must be carefully navigated.

Understanding the Nissan Rogue Rear Hatch Design

The Nissan Rogue’s rear hatch glass is glued directly to the rear door frame, making it impossible to run cables behind the glass as you might in other vehicles. This glued glass means traditional routing of the rear camera cable through the window seal or along the edge of the glass is not an option.

Most newer Rogue models share this same design, so the installation approach described here applies broadly to vehicles from 2016 onward.

Routing the Rear Camera Cable Through the Factory Grommet

Since the cable cannot pass behind the glued glass, the only viable solution is to use the factory grommet located on the hatch. This method is a standard practice for hatch vehicles with glued rear windows.

The factory grommet is a rubber seal that allows wiring to pass through the hatch without compromising the weather sealing or structural integrity. However, accessing and utilizing this grommet involves some careful disassembly.

Accessing factory grommet on Nissan Rogue hatch

Removing the Sealed Interior Panel

Before you can feed the cable through the grommet, you need to remove the interior panel on the hatch. This panel is sealed and clipped firmly into place, so it requires gentle but firm prying to remove without damaging clips or the panel itself.

Once removed, you gain access to the wiring area and the grommet that leads outside the hatch.

Removing sealed interior panel on Nissan Rogue hatch

Creating a Small Incision for the Camera Cable

Even with access to the grommet, the rear camera cable is too thick to fit through the existing hole designed for smaller factory wiring. Since the glass is glued and cannot be removed or loosened, the solution is to carefully create a small incision in the grommet to allow the cable to pass through.

Using a small file, make a precise and minimal cut into the rubber grommet. This incision should be just large enough for the rear camera cable, maintaining as much of the seal as possible to prevent water or dust ingress.

Making a small incision in the factory grommet on Nissan Rogue hatch

This step requires patience and a steady hand to avoid enlarging the hole unnecessarily or damaging the grommet’s sealing properties.

Securing and Mounting the Rear Camera

After successfully routing the cable through the grommet, the rear camera can be mounted on the hatch near the rear window. The positioning is crucial for capturing a wide and clear view behind the vehicle.

On the Nissan Rogue, the rear camera is typically mounted just below or near the rear windshield wiper, hidden enough to maintain the vehicle’s aesthetics but positioned for an optimal field of view.

Rear camera mounted on Nissan Rogue hatch

Once mounted, the small incision in the grommet is barely noticeable, preserving the clean and professional look of the installation.

Close-up of incision in grommet after rear camera installation

Additional Tips for a Professional Dash Cam Installation

Installing a rear dash camera on a Nissan Rogue requires more than just routing the cable. Here are some important tips to ensure your installation is safe, durable, and reliable:

  • Use Quality Tools: A small file or precision cutting tool is best for making the incision in the grommet without damaging other components.
  • Take Your Time: Rushing the process can lead to damage or improper sealing, which may cause leaks or cable wear over time.
  • Secure Wiring: Use clips or cable ties inside the hatch to secure the wiring and prevent rattles or damage from hatch movement.
  • Check Camera Alignment: Before finalizing the installation, test the camera feed to ensure the angle captures the rear view correctly.
  • Consider Professional Installation: If you’re unsure about any step, professional installers like Safe Drive Solutions can ensure a flawless setup that maintains your vehicle’s warranty and appearance.

Why Choose Safe Drive Solutions for Your Dash Cam Needs?

At Safe Drive Solutions, we specialize in dash cam installations tailored to your vehicle’s unique design. We understand the challenges that come with models like the Nissan Rogue and have the expertise to overcome them efficiently. Our professional installation services cover Vancouver, Toronto, and surrounding areas, ensuring your dash cam is installed with precision and care.

Explore our range of top-quality dash cams and accessories, including:

For more information on dash cam installation, check out our detailed guides:

Conclusion: A Clean and Reliable Rear Dash Cam Installation for Nissan Rogue

Installing a rear dash camera on a Nissan Rogue 2016 or newer requires understanding the vehicle’s unique rear hatch design and carefully routing the camera cable through the factory grommet. Although the glued rear glass presents a challenge, with the right tools and technique, you can achieve a nearly invisible and professional installation.

Taking the time to carefully remove the sealed interior panel, create a precise incision in the grommet, and securely mount the camera will ensure your dash cam functions perfectly while maintaining your vehicle’s aesthetics and weather protection.

If you want peace of mind on the road and while parked, investing in a quality rear dash cam and having it professionally installed by experts like Safe Drive Solutions is a smart choice. Protect yourself with clear video evidence and improve your driving safety with a properly installed rear camera on your Nissan Rogue.

Ready to upgrade your Nissan Rogue with a rear dash camera? Contact Safe Drive Solutions today for a free quote and professional installation service!

Back to blog