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How to Pay for a Dash Cam Setup

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How to Pay for a Dash Cam Setup

A reliable camera system costs about $300, and you can manage the cost by hitting end-of-year sales and using a clear payment timeline.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $300 before anything else
Across the 0% window $16.67/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $300 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

A dash cam is one of those things you hope to never use but are incredibly glad to have when a bad driver hits your fender. It records exactly what happens, which can save you a mountain of stress and insurance headaches. Expect to pay about $300 for a solid setup that covers both the front and rear of your vehicle.

Timing is everything here. Retailers usually run deep clearance sales right after the holidays to clear out inventory. If you wait until the end of the year to buy, you can often grab the high-end gear at a mid-range price.

Remember that the 18-month intro window is a deadline, not free money. If you have any balance remaining once those 18 months are up, you will start paying interest on whatever is left over.

The steps

  1. 01

    Set your budget

    Aim for $300 as a baseline for a high-quality dual-camera system. Don't forget to factor in the cost of a high-endurance memory card if it is not included in the box. Having a fixed number helps you avoid overspending on features you might not actually use.

  2. 02

    Wait for the end-of-year sales

    Keep an eye on major retailers during the final weeks of December. This is when old stock is marked down to make room for new models. You will often find the best prices of the year during this specific window.

  3. 03

    Use your payment window

    You can use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card to manage the cost over time. It offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This lets you spread that $300 into payments of about $16.67 per month.

  4. 04

    Plan for the installation

    Decide if you are hardwiring the camera to your fuse box or just using the cigarette lighter plug. Hardwiring is cleaner but might require a $20 installation kit. If you are not comfortable with car wiring, budget an hour of labor time at a local shop.

  5. 05

    Test your footage

    Once installed, spend ten minutes checking the app or the camera screen to ensure both lenses have a clear view. Make sure the date and time settings are correct. You want the camera ready to go the moment you start the engine.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Do I really need a rear camera?

Rear-ending is common in city traffic. Having a rear camera provides a full picture if someone hits you from behind.

Is the installation difficult?

Most cameras just suction to the glass and plug into a lighter socket. Hardwiring to the car battery is harder but hides the ugly wires.

What happens if I miss a payment?

Missing a payment can end your 0% offer early and trigger late fees. Set up an automatic payment for at least the minimum to keep things on track.

Does the camera work when the car is off?

Only if you use a parking mode kit. This allows the camera to record if it detects motion while your car is parked.