Ford Expedition Rear Dash Camera Installation: A Practical Guide

Installing a rear dash camera on a 2019 Ford Expedition requires some careful planning and clever techniques to ensure durability and functionality. At Safe Drive Solutions - Dash Cam Specialists, we’ve developed a smart approach that not only protects your camera but also ensures it stays securely mounted without interfering with the vehicle’s features. Here’s a detailed walkthrough of the process, sharing tips and tricks to get your rear dash cam installed perfectly.

Running the Wire Through the Hatch

We start with the 2019 Ford Expedition by removing the grommet to gain access for the wiring. Using a fish tool, the rear camera cable is carefully run through the vehicle’s interior, allowing us to pull the wire right through to the hatch. This cable is approximately 6 meters long, which is just enough to reach the rear with a little bit of slack for adjustments.

Having the right length of cable is crucial —  we always make sure to leave some slack to avoid tension on the connections.

Why Not Mount the Rear Camera on the Rear Window?

Many people tend to mount the rear dash camera directly on the rear window. However, the Ford Expedition’s rear window is unique because it pops open independently from the hatch. There are cables for the heating elements embedded in the rear window, and if the window is opened with the camera mounted on it, the camera will likely get damaged.

Some might say, “I’m never going to pop it open, so just mount it there, it’s fine.” But the reality is, it only takes one accidental pop — maybe a child in the family or a dealership technician during maintenance — and the camera breaks. The liability question then becomes a headache. To avoid this problem, we mount the rear camera on a solid panel inside the hatch rather than the glass.

Using a Simple Money Clip as a Mounting Solution

Here’s a neat trick we use that’s both low-cost and effective: a simple money clip. These clips are inexpensive and easy to purchase in bulk on Amazon. We modify one and attach it firmly to the metal panel inside the rear hatch. This creates a solid mounting point for the rear camera, avoiding issues with mounting on plastic or glass surfaces.

Mounting the camera on a metal surface ensures the 3M adhesive tape sticks properly and the camera remains secure. Plastic panels tend to warp or melt under heat, and adhesive doesn’t hold well, so the metal clip is a reliable solution.

Reassembling and Adjusting the Rear Camera

Once the money clip is in place, we reinstall the panel and run the rear camera cable through the hatch. The camera is plugged in and mounted onto the metal clip.

Before securing the camera, we clean the mounting area thoroughly with antiseptic wipes and ensure it’s dry. This step guarantees the adhesive bonds strongly, preventing the camera from detaching over time.

With the camera mounted, we can now adjust its angle to get the perfect rear view, aligning it with the front camera to provide comprehensive coverage.

Benefits of Professional Rear Dash Camera Installation

Installing a rear dash camera in a vehicle like the Ford Expedition involves more than just sticking the camera to a window. Proper wiring, secure mounting, and consideration of the vehicle’s unique features are critical to avoid damage and ensure long-lasting functionality.

For those interested in high-quality dash cams, we recommend exploring our selection, including models with advanced features and excellent video quality such as the Viofo A229 Pro 4K Front & Rear or the Vueroid D21 4K. These cameras provide crystal-clear footage and come with professional installation options to guarantee optimal performance.

To learn more about the importance of professional dash cam installation and how it can make a difference in your vehicle, check out our blog on Why Get Your Dash Cam Professionally Installed.

Conclusion

Installing a rear dash camera on a 2019 Ford Expedition is a bit more involved than a simple mount on the rear window due to the vehicle’s rear hatch design and heating elements. By running the wire properly through the hatch, employing a money clip for a secure metal mounting point, and carefully adjusting the camera angle, you ensure a durable and effective rear dash camera setup.

If you own a Ford Expedition or a similar vehicle and want a reliable dash cam installation, consider professional services to get it done right the first time. Protect your investment and enjoy peace of mind on the road knowing your rear dash camera is secure and functioning perfectly.

For more information on dash cams tailored to your vehicle, visit our homepage at Safe Drive Solutions or browse our extensive collection of premium dash cams and accessories.