So, you just got your hands on a Rexing R4 Plus dash cam? Awesome! I totally get that feeling of excitement mixed with a little bit of “how do I even start with this thing?” when you unbox new tech. But trust me, setting up your Rexing R4 Plus is actually pretty straightforward, and once it’s up and running, you’ll feel so much more at ease knowing you’ve got an extra set of eyes on the road.
Dash cams have become incredibly important these days. From capturing evidence in case of an accident to deterring vandalism in parking lots, or even just recording those unexpected, wild moments on the highway, having a dash cam like the Rexing R4 Plus is a smart move for any driver. It’s like having a silent co-pilot always documenting your journey. The Rexing R4 Plus itself is a pretty impressive piece of kit, offering clear 1080p resolution across four channels—that means it’s watching your front, rear, left, and right, giving you comprehensive coverage you can really rely on. Plus, with features like Wi-Fi, GPS, and a parking monitor, it brings a lot of peace of mind.
In this guide, we’re going to walk through everything you need to know, from unboxing and physical installation to tweaking those crucial settings. My goal is to make this setup process feel less like a chore and more like you’re just getting a new gadget ready to roll. So, let’s get your Rexing R4 Plus dash cam ready for action!
What’s in the Box?
Before we dig into the setup, let’s quickly check what should be in your Rexing R4 Plus box. It usually includes:
- The Rexing R4 Plus Dash Cam unit itself.
- A 3M adhesive mount and sometimes a suction cup mount option.
- Car Power Connector typically a 12ft cable.
- Rear Camera with an extension cable around 22ft.
- A cable management tool super handy for a neat install!.
- Quick Start Guide and Safety Guide.
- Sometimes, it might even come with a CPL filter and a Smart Hardwire Kit, which is great for unlocking extra features like parking mode.
Make sure you’ve got all your pieces ready to go!
Setting Up Your Rexing R4 Plus: A Step-by-Step Guide
Alright, let’s get down to business. Setting up your dash cam involves a few key stages. We’ll start with the essentials like the memory card, then move on to getting the camera mounted and powered.
Memory Card: The Heart of Your Recordings
This is probably one of the most critical, yet often overlooked, parts of dash cam setup. Your memory card is where all your footage lives, so you want to make sure you’re using the right one and that it’s properly prepared.
Choosing the Right SD Card
Rexing is pretty clear about this: you’ll need a Class 10/UHS-3 or higher Micro SD memory card, and it can be up to 256GB. Why such specific requirements? Dash cams are constantly writing and overwriting video, which puts a lot of stress on a memory card. A lower-quality or slower card might lead to recording failures, corrupted files, or the camera just not working right.
You might have an old microSD card lying around, but honestly, it’s worth investing in a high-endurance card specifically designed for dash cam use. Brands like Samsung Pro Endurance or SanDisk High Endurance are usually good bets. Some users have reported issues with certain SanDisk Ultra cards, so it’s always best to check Rexing’s recommendations if you’re unsure.
Inserting the Micro SD Card
This step is super easy, but there’s a right way to do it. Discovering Rexing Skating: Your Guide to a Classic Roller Skating Style
- Power Down First: Always, always make sure your Rexing R4 Plus is completely powered off before you insert or remove the memory card. This protects both the camera and the card from damage.
- Locate the Slot: The Micro SD card slot is usually on the side of the main camera unit.
- Gently Insert: Push the card in gently until you hear a satisfying “click.” That click means it’s securely in place and the spring-release mechanism has engaged. If you’re struggling, a small coin can help give you that extra push, but don’t force it. You should see the card flush or nearly flush with the camera’s body.
Formatting the SD Card
This step is absolutely crucial, especially if you’re using a brand-new card or one that’s been used in another device. Formatting the card within the camera sets it up correctly for the Rexing R4 Plus’s specific recording system and helps prevent issues down the line.
- Power On: With the SD card inserted, connect your dash cam to a power source to turn it on.
- Stop Recording: If the camera starts recording automatically it often does!, press the OK button to stop the recording. You’ll usually see a flashing red LED when it’s recording.
- Access Menu: Press the MENU button twice to get into the Setup Settings menu.
- Find Format: Use the UP and DOWN navigation buttons to scroll through the options until you find “Format”.
- Confirm: Press the OK button to confirm the selection. The camera will usually ask for a second confirmation, so press OK again.
Pro Tip: Get into the habit of formatting your SD card regularly—maybe once a month. This helps maintain optimal performance and can prevent file corruption. Just remember to back up any important footage first!
Mounting Your Dash Cam: Finding the Sweet Spot
Now that your memory card is ready, let’s get the camera mounted in your car. Getting the placement right is key for clear, unobstructed footage and legal compliance.
Preparing Your Windshield
A clean surface is essential for a secure mount.
- Clean the Area: Thoroughly clean the chosen spot on your windshield with water or rubbing alcohol, then wipe it dry with a clean, lint-free cloth. Any dust or grime can compromise the adhesive.
- Electrostatic Sticker Recommended: Many Rexing dash cams, including the R4 Plus, come with electrostatic stickers. You peel off the protective film and attach this sticker to your windshield first. This is a must because it allows you to easily remove the dash cam mount without leaving sticky residue directly on your glass. It also gives the adhesive mount a really good surface to bond with.
Optimal Placement
Where you put your dash cam really matters. How to Easily Install Your Rexing Rear Camera: A Complete Guide
- Behind the Rearview Mirror is Best: The consensus among dash cam users and experts is to position your dash cam at the center of your windshield, directly behind your rearview mirror. This spot typically maximizes the camera’s viewing angle, covering both sides of the road, and most importantly, it keeps the camera out of your line of sight, which is often a legal requirement and definitely a safety consideration.
- Avoid Obstructions: Double-check that your sun visors, wipers, or anything else won’t block the camera’s view. Also, make sure it doesn’t interfere with any vehicle sensors or airbags.
Attaching the Mount
The Rexing R4 Plus typically comes with an adhesive mount, and sometimes a suction cup mount.
- Adhesive Mount:
- Place the 3M tape squarely on the mount, making sure it’s oriented correctly often a specific side faces the roof/hood line.
- If using the electrostatic sticker, remove the 3M tape backing and press the mount firmly onto the sticker or directly onto the windshield if not using the sticker.
- Crucial Step: Wait! For adhesive mounts, Rexing strongly recommends waiting at least 20 minutes after pressing the mount onto the windshield before attaching the camera itself. This allows the adhesive to properly bond and set, preventing your camera from falling off later. Trust me, you don’t want your dash cam tumbling down while you’re driving!
- Suction Cup Mount if included/preferred:
- Clean the suction cup and the windshield area with rubbing alcohol and wipe dry.
- Apply a little moisture to the suction cup for a better seal.
- Press it firmly onto the windshield and engage the locking mechanism usually a lever or twist. Wait about 30 minutes for it to dry and create a strong seal.
Mounting the Main R4 Plus Camera
Once your mount is securely in place and you’ve waited that 20 minutes if using adhesive!, you can finally attach the Rexing R4 Plus camera. It usually slides or clips directly onto the mount. Ensure it’s firmly attached and doesn’t wobble.
Connecting the Rear Camera If applicable
The R4 Plus is a multi-channel system, meaning it can record from additional cameras, like a rear camera, for a full picture. This adds a significant layer of security.
Finding the Right Spot for the Rear Cam
Just like the front, you want a clear view. For the rear camera, the best spot is usually at the top center of your rear windshield. Make sure it’s not obstructing your view out the back or interfering with the defrost lines.
Routing the Rear Camera Cable
This is where the cable management tool comes in handy! You’ll run the long rear camera cable from the main dash cam unit at the front, all the way to the back of your car. What is CHAdeMO Charging? Your Go-To Guide for This EV Fast-Charging Standard
- Along the Headliner: Carefully tuck the cable under the headliner the fabric ceiling of your car. The cable management tool helps push it into the seams.
- Down the A-Pillar: Route the cable down the A-pillar the vertical support between your windshield and front door. You can usually gently pull back the weather stripping and tuck the cable in there. Be mindful of airbags if your car has them in the A-pillar.
- Along the Door Sills: Continue routing the cable along the door sills the plastic trim at the bottom of your doors or under the floor mats.
- To the Rear: Bring the cable to the rear windshield, again, tucking it neatly into the headliner or trim.
- Connect: Finally, plug the rear camera cable into the designated port on the main R4 Plus unit and the rear camera.
The goal here is a clean, factory-installed look where no wires are dangling or creating distractions. This also makes it safer as loose cables can get snagged.
Powering Up Your Rexing R4 Plus
With everything mounted, it’s time to give your dash cam some juice!
Connecting via Car Charger
The simplest way to power your R4 Plus is using the included car charger cable.
- Plug into 12V DC Outlet: Plug the larger end of the car charger cable into your car’s 12V DC power outlet often called the cigarette lighter socket.
- Connect to Camera: Plug the smaller Type-C end of the cable into the corresponding port on your Rexing R4 Plus dash cam.
Automatic Power On/Off
One of the great things about Rexing dash cams is their automatic operation. Once connected to power:
- Auto Start: The camera will typically power on automatically and start recording when your vehicle’s engine starts and it receives a charge. You’ll see the welcome screen, and then it’ll go straight into recording mode.
- Auto Shut Down: Similarly, when you turn off your vehicle, the camera will automatically stop recording and shut down after a few seconds.
Manual Power On/Off
If you need to manually turn the device on or off, just press and hold the Power button until the welcome screen appears or disappears. Cracking the Code: How to Make Restaurant-Quality Eggs at Home
Cable Management: Keeping it Tidy
I know, it sounds like a small detail, but trust me, properly managing your cables makes a huge difference in the overall look and safety of your dash cam setup. No one wants wires dangling everywhere!
- Use the Cable Management Tool: The little plastic tool that came in the box is specifically for this. It helps you gently pry open gaps in your car’s headliner and trim pieces so you can tuck the cables away.
- Follow Natural Lines: Route cables along the edges of your windshield, down the A-pillar, and under the dashboard. This keeps them hidden and prevents them from interfering with your driving or sightlines.
- Avoid Airbags: When routing cables along pillars, be extremely careful not to interfere with any side curtain airbags. Always run cables behind the airbag if possible, or consult your vehicle’s manual.
- Secure Excess Cable: Use any included cable clips or zip ties to secure any slack, especially near the power outlet.
A neat installation isn’t just about aesthetics. it also means less chance of snagging a cable or having it become a distraction while you’re driving.
Essential Settings & Features You Need to Know
Your Rexing R4 Plus isn’t just a basic recorder. it’s packed with smart features that enhance your driving safety and peace of mind. Let’s customize it to work best for you.
Basic Settings Configuration
Once your camera is powered on and recording, you can dive into the menu to fine-tune its operation. Remember to press OK to stop recording first, then hit the MENU button once for Video Settings or twice for Setup Settings. Rexing Q28 Intercom: Your Ultimate Guide to Staying Connected and Capturing Every Ride
- Date & Time: The Rexing R4 Plus has built-in GPS, which is great because it usually syncs the date and time automatically, so you don’t have to fiddle with it. If it’s ever off, check your GPS signal or troubleshoot via Rexing’s support. Accurate timestamps are vital for any footage you might need later.
- Loop Recording: This is a standard dash cam feature that ensures your memory card never fills up and stops recording. When the card reaches its maximum capacity, the camera automatically overwrites the oldest unlocked footage with new recordings. You can usually set the duration of each video clip e.g., 1, 3, or 5 minutes. I usually set mine to 3 minutes – it makes files manageable if you ever need to review them.
- G-Sensor: This feature detects sudden impacts or collisions. When triggered, the G-sensor automatically locks the current footage, preventing it from being overwritten by loop recording. This is super important because it ensures critical incident footage is saved. You can adjust its sensitivity Low, Medium, High. If you find it’s locking videos over normal bumps in the road, you might want to set it to “Low.” If your car has a stiff suspension or you drive on rough roads, a lower sensitivity might be better to avoid too many “locked” files. But for parking mode, a higher sensitivity is usually recommended.
- Audio Recording: The R4 Plus can record audio inside your vehicle. You can usually toggle this feature on or off in the settings. Just be mindful of privacy, especially if you have passengers.
- Video Resolution: The R4 Plus records in 1080p for all four channels. While some dash cams boast 4K, 1080p from four angles still gives you incredibly clear and detailed footage, which is perfect for identifying details like license plates.
Parking Monitor: Your Car’s 24/7 Guardian
This is one of my favorite features, especially if you often park in busy areas or want extra protection against hit-and-runs or vandalism. The Rexing R4 Plus offers parking surveillance mode.
- Understanding Parking Mode: When your engine is off, the parking monitor can activate the dash cam to record if it detects:
- Vibration Detection G-Sensor: If your car is bumped or hit, the G-sensor triggers a recording.
- Motion Detection: Some hardwire kits enable recording when motion is detected around your vehicle.
- Important: Why a Hardwire Kit is Essential for Parking Mode: Here’s the big one: You absolutely need a Rexing Type-C Smart Hardwire Kit to enable the parking monitor function reliably. If you try to enable it without the hardwire kit, it can cause malfunctions or simply won’t work correctly. The hardwire kit provides continuous power to your dash cam even when the car is off, without draining your car’s battery. It’s designed to protect your battery and ensure the dash cam has power when needed.
- Briefly mention Hardwire Kit installation: Installing a hardwire kit involves connecting it directly to your car’s fuse box. Typically, you connect one wire to a “switched” fuse only gets power when the car is on, one to an “always-on” fuse gets power constantly, and a ground wire to a metal bolt on the car’s chassis. If you’re not comfortable with car electrical systems, it’s always best to have a professional install it. Rexing even has video tutorials on how to install their hardwire kits.
Wi-Fi Connectivity & The Rexing Connect App
The built-in Wi-Fi feature on the R4 Plus is incredibly convenient for managing your footage without pulling out the SD card all the time.
How to Enable Wi-Fi on the Dash Cam
- Power On & Stop Recording: Make sure your dash cam is on and not currently recording press OK if it is.
- Enable Wi-Fi: Hold the OK button sometimes the UP button for a couple of seconds to enable the Wi-Fi function. You should see a Wi-Fi icon appear on the screen, along with the Wi-Fi name SSID and password. It usually looks something like “V5_WIFI_xxxxxxx”.
Connecting Your Phone
- Go to Phone’s Wi-Fi Settings: On your mobile device, open your Wi-Fi settings.
- Connect to Dash Cam’s Wi-Fi: Look for the Rexing dash cam’s Wi-Fi network name SSID and tap to connect.
- Enter Password: If prompted, enter the password displayed on the dash cam screen. You might get a message saying the network doesn’t have internet. just select “Keep Trying Wi-Fi” or “Stay Connected”.
Using the App
- Open Rexing Connect App: Once your phone is connected to the dash cam’s Wi-Fi, open the Rexing Connect app on your mobile device. You can download it from the App Store or Google Play.
- Connect in App: In the app, hit the “Connect” button. This should give you access to a live view from your dash cam and allow you to view or download your recordings directly to your phone.
- A note from personal experience: While the app is super convenient for quick checks and small downloads, for larger transfers or if you’re having app issues, sometimes pulling the SD card and plugging it into a computer is faster and more reliable.
Built-in GPS: Tracking Your Journey
The R4 Plus includes a built-in GPS logger, which is fantastic for providing context to your recordings.
How GPS Works on the R4 Plus
The dash cam automatically searches for a GPS signal once it’s connected to a power source. Once it finds a signal, the GPS icon on the screen will change from “searching” to “active”. This means it’s now logging your vehicle’s location and speed.
Viewing GPS Data with Playback Software
While you won’t see a map on the dash cam itself, the GPS data is embedded in your video files. To view your route, speed, and other details: Getting Help with Your Rexing Dash Cam: Contact Numbers, Support, and More
- Download GPS Player Software: Rexing provides a dedicated GPS Video Player software for Windows and Mac, usually available on their support website.
- Playback: Insert your SD card into your computer via an adapter or connect the dash cam directly via USB. Open the video files using the Rexing GPS Player, and you’ll see your footage alongside a map showing your route, speed, and coordinates. This is invaluable for proving your location and speed in case of an incident.
Troubleshooting Common Rexing R4 Plus Issues
Even with the best setup, sometimes little glitches happen. Here are some common issues you might run into and how to tackle them.
Memory Card Not Recognized or Recording Stops
This is probably the most frequent issue people face with dash cams.
- Check Compatibility: Are you using a Class 10/UHS-3 or higher Micro SD card up to 256GB? If not, that’s your first fix.
- Format the Card: If you haven’t formatted it in the camera, do that immediately. Regular formatting also helps.
- Try Another Card: Sometimes cards just go bad, especially with constant use. If you’ve formatted and it’s still acting up, try a different, known-good card.
- Check Loop Recording: Make sure loop recording is enabled in the settings.
Dash Cam Not Powering On/Rebooting
If your camera is acting flaky with power, here’s what to check:
- Secure Connection: Ensure the car charger is securely plugged into both the dash cam and your vehicle’s 12V outlet.
- Test Power Source: Try the charger in a different 12V outlet if your car has one, or try a different compatible charger. Sometimes the car’s fuse for that outlet can blow.
- Internal Battery Depleted: Rexing dash cams are designed to be powered continuously while recording. the internal battery is mostly for emergencies and holding settings. If it keeps rebooting, it might not be getting consistent power.
- Firmware Update: Occasionally, firmware issues can cause rebooting. Check Rexing’s website for the latest firmware for your R4 Plus and follow their instructions carefully to update it. Be very cautious here – using the wrong firmware can make your device unusable.
- Factory Reset: As a last resort, restoring the unit to factory settings can sometimes resolve stubborn issues.
Wi-Fi Connection Problems
If your phone isn’t connecting to the app: Rexing P2 Review: Your Ultimate Guide to This Compact Body Camera
- Enable Wi-Fi on Dash Cam: Double-check that Wi-Fi is activated on the R4 Plus and you see the SSID and password.
- Restart Both Devices: Try restarting both your phone and the dash cam.
- App Up to Date: Make sure your Rexing Connect app is the latest version.
- Forget Network: On your phone, “forget” the dash cam’s Wi-Fi network and try connecting again.
- Distance: Ensure you’re close enough to the dash cam. its Wi-Fi range is limited as it’s not meant for internet browsing but direct device-to-device communication.
Incorrect Date/Time
If your date and time are consistently wrong:
- GPS Signal: The R4 Plus uses GPS for time sync. Make sure your car is outdoors with a clear view of the sky to get a strong GPS signal. The GPS icon on the screen should turn “active”.
- GPS Date-Time Troubleshooting: Rexing has specific troubleshooting guides for GPS date/time issues on their support site. It might involve a firmware update if the issue persists.
Hopefully, these tips help you iron out any wrinkles you encounter. Most of the time, a quick format or checking your connections is all it takes!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of Micro SD card should I use with the Rexing R4 Plus?
You should always use a Class 10/UHS-3 or higher Micro SD memory card with a capacity of up to 256GB for your Rexing R4 Plus. Using cards not specifically designed for dash cams or with lower speed ratings can lead to recording errors, corrupted files, and unreliable performance.
How do I enable parking mode on my Rexing R4 Plus?
To enable the parking monitor function, you must connect your Rexing R4 Plus to a Rexing Type-C Smart Hardwire Kit. Without this kit, the parking mode will not function correctly and may cause issues. Once hardwired, you can enable parking mode in the dash cam’s settings, usually under “Setup Settings”. Rexing p1 bodycam
Why won’t my Rexing R4 Plus connect to the Rexing Connect app?
First, ensure Wi-Fi is enabled on your dash cam usually by holding the OK button and the Wi-Fi name SSID and password are displayed. Then, connect your phone to the dash cam’s Wi-Fi network in your phone’s settings. Finally, open the Rexing Connect app and tap “Connect.” If problems persist, try restarting both devices and ensure your app is up to date. Remember, the dash cam’s Wi-Fi is for direct connection, not internet access.
How do I format the memory card in my Rexing R4 Plus?
To format the memory card, first, make sure the dash cam is powered on and not recording press the OK button to stop recording if it is. Then, press the MENU button twice to enter the Setup Settings menu. Use the navigation buttons to scroll to “Format” and press OK to confirm the selection. It’s recommended to format your card regularly.
Where is the best place to mount the Rexing R4 Plus in my car?
The most ideal place to mount your Rexing R4 Plus is at the center of your windshield, directly behind the rearview mirror. This position provides the widest view of the road, ensures the camera doesn’t obstruct your driving vision, and typically complies with local laws regarding windshield obstructions. Using the included electrostatic sticker first is a good idea for easier removal later.
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