Feature Friday: 8 Dash Camera Setups For The 4Runner

This Week’s Topic: Dash Camera Setups

We’re back with a brand new Feature Friday! Last week, we covered aftermarket head units for the 5th Gen 4Runner. This time, we’re covering dash camera setups.

I’m sure you all know what a dash camera is and perhaps even looked into purchasing one yourself. These compact video recording devices have become essential in today’s world. Whether it’s for documenting your journeys or an added layer of protection on the roads, dash cams have now become commonplace.

With how much money 4Runner owners invest into their rigs, dash cams offer excellent peace of mind with how common theft and fraud has become.

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Note: The builds listed below are in no particular order.

1. Atul Bhandari – (@ab.t4r)

Dash Camera 

• Vantrue N2 Pro: Check Price

Tell Us About Your Setup 

I chose Vantrue because of the fantastic reviews online across their entire lineup. My friends run other Vantrue models and have never had an issue with quality, recording, or playback. It was an easy decision. Plus, they have great customer service, I can attest to it! They’re quick to respond and very communicative. It’s hard to find that nowadays.

I like that the camera features HD front and inside cameras, has the ability for increased storage on a MicroSD card, and also has an optional GPS and hardwire kit for 24/7 recording.

Like most, I purchased a dash camera for peace of mind should I be involved in an accident. Having video evidence of what actually happened is a game changer. I’ve also been able to help out on two different occasions with hit-and-runs by providing my footage.

2. John Carlo Rivera – (@416ix_runner)

Dash Camera 

• Ssontong FHD 1080P Front Dash Camera: Check Price

Tell Us About Your Setup 

I decided to invest in a dash cam for our safety when we are on the road. In case there was ever an accident, I would have everything on camera for the insurance company. With all of these wild drivers on the road these days, this camera is incredibly useful.

I chose this brand because there were lots of great reviews on Amazon and it was a really good price point. When I got it, I immediately noticed its high-quality build and that the video was extremely clear. Installation was also a breeze.

I personally think that everyone should have some sort of dash camera in their cars no matter what they drive. There are tons of options available to fit your needs and budget.

3. Austin Denike – (@austindenike)

Dash Camera 

• VIOFO A129 Duo Dual Dash Cam: Check Price

Tell Us About Your Setup 

I had been researching dash cams for a while. I wanted one with decent recording quality and a good amount of features, like a high dynamic range for night driving and parking modes. This one came across in my search and it turned out to be a great option.

I like that the Viofo is compact enough to not be seen behind my rearview mirror. Sometimes, the only way I remember it’s there is because of the start-up noise. It’s easy to connect through the app to review footage and pull screenshots. The model I got also has a rear camera that would normally be mounted on a rear window, but since the 4Runner glass rolls down, I can’t use it.

I had seen dash cam videos of accidents online where the poster said that if it weren’t for their dash camera, they would have been seen as at fault for the accident. Or, the accident was a hit and run and the camera helped provide evidence.

After fearing that I would be stuck paying thousands if I ever got into an accident, I started researching cameras. Before I decided on the one I wanted, I witnessed a car get T-boned right in front of me. I ordered my dash cam the next day! Fortunately, I have not had to use it, other than pulling some footage of funny things or road-raging drivers that I have seen.

4. Christopher Mojica – (@calichrisrunner)

Dash Camera 

• Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 w/ Garmin 010-12530-03 Parking Mode Cable: Check Price

Tell Us About Your Setup 

When looking for dash cams, there were a few options. I first looked at the more affordable options but ended up going with Garmin mainly for brand recognition. I’ve had a few Garmin products in the past and they worked well. I wanted a dashcam that would not have any issues, so I stuck with the brand I trusted.

Garmin does have other cameras with more options and features but I went with the Mini 2 for its small size. It wasn’t the cheapest option, but my friends were having issues with the adhesive failing on the more affordable cameras.

Finally, mine is only a front-facing camera. I would have liked a rear camera as well but haven’t really found a clean solution that I have been a fan of. It’s a tricky feat with the 4Runner’s rear window being able to roll down.

The thing I like the most is that it’s small and out of the way. I originally did not want a dash cam in order to preserve a minimalistic look to my truck, but the size of the Mini 2 did the job. I also like that I don’t have to turn on the camera every time I get in my 4Runner. When paired with the Parking Mode Cable, it turns on when the truck turns on. The camera also senses impacts and has voice control, making it hands-free.

Another big feature that a lot of the cheaper options don’t have is instant playback. Garmin has a companion app, so in the case of an incident, I would be able to easily show proof of what happened. This also helps avoid the possibility of a lengthy investigation.

At first, I did not want to invest in a dash cam. However, I had a few close calls with some box trucks and semis that have gone really bad.

I definitely recommend people shop around and look for the features they want or need in a dashcam. If you can afford something a bit more expensive, I would recommend making the investment. At the very least. look for something with an app that can playback clips instantly.

5. John Morimoto – (@hilux_surfah)

Dash Camera 

• VIOFO A129 Duo Dual Dash Cam: Check Price

Tell Us About Your Setup 

At the time that I was looking for a dash camera, VIOFO was one of the highest-rated 4K dual car cameras based on my personal research. I felt based on reviews and price points, that this made the best sense.

After getting rear-ended by a city bus in my 4th Gen 4Runner, and losing arbitration based on the city’s intimidating attorneys, I was advised, that had I had a dash cam, my case would have definitely been in my favor. This was the second time personally that I was in a situation where a dash cam would have come in handy based on the collisions I’ve been involved in.

I really like for someone not so technically savvy, this camera was easy to install, set up, use, and watch the footage.

Get a dash cam. They will be useful in assisting you in situations that you would never have thought to be in and also may capture a cool lightning shot too!

6. Jia Castor – (@jiacastor77)

Dash Camera 

• RexingUSA 4k Dual Channel: Check Price

Tell Us About Your Setup 

The reason I opted for this brand is because of its compact design, integrated GPS functionality, and advanced G-Sensor. I’m particularly fond of features such as 24-hour recording, exceptional video quality, and the inclusion of a rear camera.

My decision to invest in a dash cam was because I wanted to be able to capture my off-road adventures in real time. It was also important to have protection against accidents.

As I look ahead, I’m contemplating adding an integrated front grill camera to further expand my camera setup.

7. Oleg Pinchuk – (@olezhkapin)

Dash Camera 

• VIOFO A129 Duo Dual Dash Cam: Check Price

Tell Us About Your Setup 

When I was first looking for a dash camera, I found the VIOFO A129 and thought it was awesome. It looked super reliable and was a good fit for my needs. It has yet to disappoint me.

This camera is extremely nice and easy to use. The video quality is actually really good and if I ever need to switch the SD card, it’s fairly easy to do. Unlike some of the other options, this camera includes a 64GB SD Card!

I decided to invest in a dashcam because the roads aren’t always safe. I want myself and my car to be safe and sound on the road. Thankfully, I have never been in an accident but if I were to ever get into one, I know I would get everything on camera.

This was a great investment!

8. Sean Migone – (@mig_rnr)

Dash Camera 

• Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2: Check Price

Tell Us About Your Setup 

Garmin has been around for years and I picked the Dash Cam Mini 2 for that reason. I knew that Garmin sells top-quality products that are tried and tested, so it was a no-brainer for me.

The camera itself is super tiny but still gives great 1080p footage. I also love the fact that I could pair this with the Dongar Tech power adapter that eliminates all the exposed wires. The fact that I can actually have it monitoring my vehicle through Wi-Fi while it is parked, is also awesome. Everything is controlled through the Garmin Drive app, which seamlessly integrates with the camera.

I initially invested in a camera because I live in Florida and people drive very aggressively. Unfortunately, sometimes you have to prove yourself if you’re ever in an accident. I also really liked how I could use it as a front-view camera and download the video to my social media page. This is especially important if I’m going on any cool adventures.

Other than that, I really like that I can monitor my truck while it’s parked and I’m away. This is a huge security plus for me. All the videos can be saved on the SD card that is removable and downloadable just in case anything ever happens.

Anything Garman makes is usually top-notch. Sure, there are cameras out there with more and better features but this camera does exactly what I need, stable and reliable recording. I don’t even know that it’s there because it’s so small!

Final Thoughts

That wraps up this week’s Feature Friday!

There are so many different dash camera setups to choose for added peace of mind on your travels. As an added bonus, you’ll always have a recording of your off-road adventures.

We’ll be back next week with a brand new post covering communication setups, so be sure to submit yours!