Struggling to get your Rexing R4 suction cup to stick perfectly? You’re definitely not alone! It’s a common hurdle for dash cam users, but with a few simple tricks, you can make sure your Rexing R4 stays put, keeping your recordings steady and your mind at ease. Whether you’re a new Rexing R4 owner or just looking to improve your current setup, we’re going to walk through everything you need to know about getting that suction cup mount to hold tight.
The Rexing R4 is an awesome dash cam, offering a comprehensive 4-channel view with all-around 1080p resolution, Wi-Fi, and GPS features, which makes it a fantastic choice for keeping an eye on things while you’re driving. You get both an adhesive mount and a suction cup mount in the box, giving you options for how you want to set it up. The suction cup mount offers that great flexibility to move your camera between cars or adjust its position without leaving a permanent mark. But, as anyone who’s used a suction cup for anything knows, they can be a bit finicky, especially when temperatures start to change.
Let’s get that Rexing R4 suction cup mount installed like a pro and make sure it stays secure, no matter what the road throws at you!
Mastering Your Rexing R4 Suction Cup Mount: Installation & Best Practices
you’ve got your Rexing R4 dash cam, and you’re ready to get it mounted. While the adhesive mount offers a more permanent solution, the suction cup mount gives you fantastic flexibility. This means you can easily move your Rexing R4 between different vehicles, like your personal car and a rental, or simply adjust its position until you find that perfect spot without any sticky residue. But for it to be a reliable option, you’ve got to install it right.
Here’s how to properly install your Rexing R4 suction cup mount and keep it locked down:
Step 1: Pick the Perfect Spot on Your Windshield
Choosing the right location is super important for both visibility and the mount’s grip. You want a spot that gives your Rexing R4 a clear view of the road, doesn’t block your driving view, and ideally, is somewhere the suction cup can get a good, flat seal. Many folks find the area behind the rearview mirror to be ideal, as it keeps the dash cam discreet and out of your line of sight.
Step 2: Clean, Clean, Clean!
This is probably the most crucial step that people often rush or skip. A dirty surface is the number one reason suction cups fail. Think about it: any dust, grime, or oily film on your windshield or the suction cup itself will break that vacuum seal.
- For your windshield: Grab some rubbing alcohol and a lint-free cloth. Seriously, rubbing alcohol works wonders. Thoroughly clean the area where you plan to attach the mount. Don’t just wipe it. give it a good scrub to remove any invisible film. Then, wipe it dry completely with another clean, lint-free cloth.
- For the suction cup: Don’t forget the suction cup itself! It can pick up dust and oils just from handling. Clean the back of the suction cup with rubbing alcohol and wipe it dry with a lint-free cloth too.
Step 3: A Little Moisture Goes a Long Way
Once everything is sparkling clean and dry, a tiny bit of moisture can actually help create a better, more secure seal. Don’t go overboard – we’re talking a small drop of water or a light mist. This helps the suction cup contour perfectly to the glass, eliminating any tiny air pockets. Rexing M2 Smart Mirror Dash Cam: Your Ultimate Road Companion?
Step 4: Press and Lock It In
With the area clean and a touch of moisture applied, it’s time to attach the mount.
- First, make sure to remove any protective plastic film from the suction cup.
- Next, apply the suction cup firmly to the cleaned spot on your windshield. Apply firm, steady pressure to the center of the mount, pushing out all the trapped air between the cup and the glass.
- While maintaining pressure, rotate the mount’s lever downward to lock it securely in place. This mechanism creates the powerful vacuum needed for a strong hold.
- Rexing recommends waiting about 30 minutes for the suction cup to fully dry and create its best seal before attaching the dash cam itself. I know, I know, patience is hard when you have a new gadget, but trust me, it’s worth it for a solid mount.
- Finally, attach your Rexing R4 dash cam to the mount by fitting the tab on the top of the mount into the corresponding slot on the device.
Step 5: Route Your Cables Neatly
Now that your Rexing R4 is securely mounted, you’ll want to route the power cable neatly around your windshield and tuck it under the trim. The R4 comes with a 12ft car power connector, which usually gives you plenty of length to hide those wires for a clean look and to avoid obstructing your view. Plug it into your vehicle’s 12V accessory socket or cigarette lighter. Your Rexing R4 will automatically power on and start recording once it receives a charge, which typically happens when you start your car.
Why Suction Cup Mounts Sometimes Fail And How to Fix It!
Even with the best installation, suction cup mounts can sometimes let you down. It’s often due to a few common culprits. Knowing these can help you troubleshoot and keep your Rexing R4 locked in.
The Heat is On! Temperature Fluctuations
This is a big one, especially if you live in a place with hot summers or drastic temperature swings. Suction cups are made of materials like rubber or silicone. When these materials get hot, they can become more pliable or expand slightly, causing the seal to weaken. Over time, prolonged exposure to heat and sunlight can make the suction cup stiff or even deflate, increasing the chance of it detaching. Level Up Your Dash Cam: Installing the Rexing Smart Hardwire Kit with Mini USB Port
The Fix:
- Re-seat regularly: If you notice your suction cup feels a bit loose, simply unmount it, clean both the windshield and the cup again yes, even if you just did it!, apply a little moisture, and re-attach it firmly. Think of it like a quick refresh.
- Warm water trick: If the suction cup itself seems a bit stiff or has lost its shape, try immersing just the rubber part in warm not boiling! water for 10-15 seconds. This can help soften the material and restore its original form, allowing it to create a better seal. Shake off excess water and mount it while it’s still a little warm.
- Park smart: Whenever possible, try to park your car in the shade. This reduces the extreme heat exposure on your dash cam and its mount.
Dusty and Grimy Surfaces
We talked about cleaning during installation, but this is a continuous battle. Dust, grease, and even microscopic particles build up on your windshield and the suction cup over time. These small imperfections break the vacuum seal, leading to unexpected drops.
- Routine cleaning: Make it a habit to quickly wipe down the windshield area and the suction cup once a month, or more often if you live in a dusty environment. A quick spray of glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth will do the trick.
- Avoid touching the cup: Try not to touch the sticky side of the suction cup with your fingers, as the oils from your skin can leave a residue.
Too Much Weight or Improper Cable Management
While the Rexing R4 is pretty lightweight, adding unnecessary strain can pull the mount down. If your power cable is pulling down on the dash cam or the mount, it can compromise the suction.
- Route cables carefully: Use the included cable management tool to tuck the power cable securely along the edge of your windshield or behind trim pieces, ensuring it doesn’t create any downward tension on the dash cam or mount.
Old or Damaged Suction Cups
Suction cups aren’t meant to last forever. Over time, the material can degrade, especially with constant exposure to UV rays and temperature changes. If your suction cup looks discolored, brittle, or has permanent creases or dimples that won’t go away even after the warm water trick, it might be time for a replacement.
- Replace the mount: RexingUSA offers replacement suction cup mounts and adhesive mounts for various models, including the Rexing R4 and other popular options like the Rexing V5 suction cup mount and Rexing V3 suction cup mount. A fresh mount can make all the difference.
Textured Surfaces and Why They Don’t Mix
Suction cups need a perfectly smooth, non-porous surface to create a vacuum. If you try to stick it to a textured dashboard or any other non-smooth surface, it simply won’t work. Unboxing & First Look: Getting Started with Your Rexing R4 Plus Dash Cam
- Stick to glass: Always use your suction cup mount on the smooth glass of your windshield. If you really need to mount it elsewhere, you might need a different type of mount, like an adhesive dash plate, though these are less common for windshield-mounted dash cams.
Suction Cup vs. Adhesive Mounts for Your Rexing R4: Making the Choice
The Rexing R4 often comes with both a suction cup mount and a 3M adhesive mount, which is great because it gives you options. Each has its own set of pros and cons, and the best choice really depends on your needs and how you use your dash cam.
Suction Cup Mount Advantages:
- Flexibility: This is the big one! You can easily remove and reposition the dash cam or move it between different vehicles without leaving any residue. This is perfect for rental cars or if you often switch vehicles.
- No permanent marks: If you’re someone who likes to keep their windshield pristine, the suction cup leaves no sticky mess behind when removed correctly.
- Easy adjustment: Adjusting the angle or position is typically straightforward with a suction cup, allowing you to fine-tune your recording view.
Suction Cup Mount Disadvantages:
- Prone to falling: As we’ve discussed, suction cups can lose their grip due to temperature changes especially heat, dirty surfaces, or just over time. This can be annoying and potentially damage your dash cam if it falls while driving.
- Vibration: Some users report that suction cup mounts can be more susceptible to vehicle vibrations, which might lead to shakier video footage compared to adhesive mounts.
- Less discreet: While you can hide it behind the rearview mirror, some suction cups can be bulkier and more noticeable from outside the vehicle than a sleek adhesive mount.
Adhesive Mount Advantages:
- Superior Stability: Adhesive mounts, especially those using 3M VHB tape, offer a much stronger, more permanent hold. They are less likely to fall off, even in extreme temperatures or during bumpy rides. This can lead to more stable, less shaky video footage.
- Discreet: Often, adhesive mounts are smaller and can be placed more discreetly behind the rearview mirror, making your dash cam less visible from outside.
- Long-term reliability: For drivers who plan to keep their dash cam in one vehicle for a long time, adhesive mounts provide a “set it and forget it” solution.
Adhesive Mount Disadvantages:
- Permanent mostly: While some come with static cling electrostatic stickers to help with removal, adhesive mounts are generally considered permanent. Removing them can be tricky and might leave residue or even damage window tint if not done carefully.
- Not easily transferable: If you need to move your dash cam between cars, an adhesive mount is not a practical choice.
- Installation time: Some adhesive mounts recommend a curing time e.g., 20 minutes to several hours before attaching the dash cam to ensure maximum bond strength.
Which One Should You Choose for Your Rexing R4?
If you’re someone who:
- Travels a lot and uses rental cars frequently.
- Likes to experiment with mounting locations.
- Wants to avoid any permanent alteration to your windshield.
- Lives in a moderate climate without extreme heat.
Then the Rexing R4 suction cup mount is probably a great fit for you, provided you follow the cleaning and installation tips we covered.
However, if you’re looking for a super stable, long-term solution for one vehicle, especially if you live in a hot climate like Arizona or Texas, where temperatures can cause suction cups to fail, then you might find the 3M adhesive mount to be more reliable. Many users, even those with Rexing V1, V1P, and V1P-4K models, often switch to suction cups because the adhesive struggled in heat, so it really depends on the specific adhesive and climate. Some high-quality adhesives are designed to withstand extreme temperatures better than suction cups. Discovering Rexing Skating: Your Guide to a Classic Roller Skating Style
Ultimately, the Rexing R4 gives you both, so you can test them out and see what works best for your driving habits and environment. Just remember, a proper installation is key for either choice!
Pro Tips for Maximum Suction Power
Beyond the basic installation steps, there are a few extra tricks that seasoned dash cam users often employ to keep their suction cup mounts from dropping.
Static Cling Stickers: Your Suction Cup’s Best Friend
Some dash cam brands, and even Rexing sometimes, provide static cling windshield stickers. These are thin, transparent films that adhere to your windshield by static electricity, not adhesive. You place this sticker first, and then you attach your suction cup mount directly onto the sticker.
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- Even surface: It provides a perfectly clean, smooth, and consistent surface for the suction cup, even if your windshield has minor imperfections or patterns.
- Heat barrier: It can offer a slight buffer against direct heat, potentially extending the life of your suction cup’s seal.
- No residue on glass: If you ever need to remove the mount, the sticker comes off easily without leaving any marks on your windshield.
The Rexing R4 Quick Start Guide mentions using an electrostatic film before applying the mount, which is exactly this type of sticker. So if you have one, use it!
The “Overnight” Trick
After mounting your suction cup, especially if it’s a new one or if you’ve had issues before, try leaving it attached without the dash cam for a few hours or even overnight. This gives the suction cup ample time to fully form its seal with the windshield without the added weight of the camera. Then, attach your Rexing R4.
Avoid Obstructions on the Windshield
Be mindful of anything on your windshield that could interfere with the suction cup. This includes tinting film, especially aftermarket ones factory tinting is usually fine, or any defroster lines. Suction cups generally won’t work well on window tinting kits. Also, make sure the mount isn’t pressing against any part of your dashboard or other interior elements, which could apply leverage and break the seal.
Regular Checks Are Your Friend
Don’t just set it and forget it. Every week or two, give your Rexing R4 mount a gentle wiggle. If you feel any give or hear a slight creaking sound, that’s your cue to unmount, clean, and re-attach. Proactive maintenance can save you from a dash cam falling mid-drive.
Consider Silicone Grease Use with Caution!
Some users have reported success applying a very small amount of silicone grease to the rim of the suction cup. This can help create an even better seal and might make the rubber more pliable. However, use this with extreme caution: too much could make the cup slide, and make sure it’s automotive-grade silicone grease that won’t degrade the rubber. If unsure, stick to water. What is CHAdeMO Charging? Your Go-To Guide for This EV Fast-Charging Standard
Expanding Your Rexing R4 Setup: Beyond the Mount
While getting your Rexing R4 suction cup mount right is crucial, the R4 itself is a powerful piece of tech that works best with a good setup.
Memory Card Matters
The Rexing R4 supports Class 10 / UHS-I or higher MicroSD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards up to 256GB. Using a high-endurance memory card designed for continuous recording is vital to ensure your dash cam captures everything without issues. RexingUSA even offers its own recommended cards. If your camera isn’t recognizing the card, try formatting it directly within the camera’s settings.
Powering Up and Parking Mode
The Rexing R4 powers on automatically when your vehicle starts, thanks to its connection to the 12V accessory socket. If you want to use features like parking mode and collision detection, which keep an eye on your car even when it’s off, you’ll need to use a Rexing Smart Hardwire Kit. This kit provides continuous power and properly manages battery drainage.
Rexing Connect App
The R4 has built-in Wi-Fi, allowing you to transfer video files straight to your mobile device using the Rexing Connect App. This is super handy for reviewing footage on the go without needing to pull out the microSD card. Cracking the Code: How to Make Restaurant-Quality Eggs at Home
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my Rexing R4 suction cup mount keeps falling off?
If your Rexing R4 suction cup mount keeps falling, first thoroughly clean both your windshield and the suction cup with rubbing alcohol and a lint-free cloth. Apply a small amount of moisture like a drop of water to the cup before pressing it firmly onto the glass and engaging the locking lever. Extreme temperatures, especially heat, are a common cause of failure, so consider re-seating it regularly or trying the warm water trick to restore the cup’s pliability.
Can I use the Rexing R4 suction cup mount on a textured dashboard?
No, suction cup mounts, including the Rexing R4’s, require a perfectly smooth, non-porous surface to create a strong vacuum seal. Textured dashboards will not allow the suction cup to adhere properly and it will likely fall off. It’s best to mount it on your vehicle’s windshield.
How often should I clean my Rexing R4 suction cup mount and windshield?
For optimal performance, it’s a good idea to clean the windshield area and the suction cup every few weeks or at least once a month. If you live in a very dusty area or experience frequent temperature changes, more frequent cleaning can prevent build-up that weakens the seal.
Is the Rexing R4 suction cup mount better than the adhesive mount?
Neither is inherently “better” – they serve different needs. The suction cup mount offers flexibility, easy removal, and repositioning, making it ideal for temporary use or moving between vehicles. The adhesive mount provides superior stability and a more permanent, secure hold, especially in hot climates or for long-term installation in one vehicle. The Rexing R4 includes both, so you can choose based on your preference and driving conditions. Rexing Q28 Intercom: Your Ultimate Guide to Staying Connected and Capturing Every Ride
Can I fix a suction cup that has lost its shape or become stiff?
Yes, often you can! If your suction cup has become stiff or developed a permanent dimple, try soaking just the rubber cup part in warm not boiling water for 10-15 seconds. This can help the rubber soften and regain its original shape, allowing it to create a better seal when re-attached.
What if my Rexing R4 mount vibrates too much with the suction cup?
Excessive vibration can lead to shaky footage. If you’ve ensured the mount is securely attached and the windshield is clean, try routing your power cable so it doesn’t add any downward tension to the camera or mount. If vibrations persist, an adhesive mount typically provides a more rigid, stable connection to the windshield and might be a better option for reducing shake.
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