With dash cams getting increasingly popular, it is easy to see why it is an intelligent investment. Commonly known as a car digital video recorder, it is a camera mounted on your vehicle’s dashboard or windscreen that continuously records footage while you are driving.
A dash cam acts as your driving guardian that records first-hand evidence in case of accidents. You can submit the videotape to the police and the affected party to support your case. Furthermore, they are also used by parents to monitor their kids’ driving.
Nextbase is a leading company that specializes in manufacturing quality dash cams. Since its inception in 1999, the company has offered many advanced and durable dash cams, and today, it is among the major players in the dash cams market.
Its dash cams come equipped with many ground-breaking features, including GPS tracking, Alexa voice control, and emergency SOS.
Most dash cams by Nextbase come with a suction cup that allows you to safely mount the unit to your car’s dashboard or windscreen. Some problems have been associated with these cups, which we intend to discuss hereinafter.
If you face any of those problems, consider trying the solutions mentioned in this article. Let’s delve deeper without any further ado!
Nextbase Suction Cup Problems
Below are some common problems related to suction cups that you are likely to come across.
1. Suction Cup Not Sticking to Windshield
Many users have stated that the suction cup of the Nextbase dash cams does not stick to the windshield. It usually happens when it is not installed the right way. It is often overlooked, but proper installation is important for the proper functioning of the suction cup.
The Nextbase dash cam comes with a user manual that can help you install it. It has pictures and step-by-step guidelines that you can follow while installing the dash cam.
Make sure to clean and dry your vehicle’s windscreen using a windscreen cleaner before starting the procedure.
Your windscreen may have dust particles that must be cleaned before installing. And yes, you will need to clean the suction cup as well. Some people clean it with distilled water.
However, it is recommended to use a windscreen cleaner for thorough cleaning. Next, wipe it dry with a lint-free cloth.
Once done, simply open the lever of your Nextbase suction cup and place it on your car’s windscreen. Then close the lever to lock it into place.
If you are unsure where to place it, consider referring to the user manual. The rule of thumb is to install the suction cup in the middle of the windscreen. This will allow your camera to capture even footage of both sides.
However, some modern cameras have wide lenses that are capable of capturing a wider angle. If your device uses wide-angle lenses, consider mounting your Nextbase suction cup on the top of the rearview screen.
This way, the dash cam will not distract you while driving. Furthermore, be gentle while installing it, as applying too much force can damage the Nextbase suction cup.
If the Nextbase suction cup is not staying on your windscreen, it is probably because its rubber has got too hard.
This happens when you keep parking your car under direct sunlight for many hours or if the suction cup has not been used for a long time. Whatever the case is, here is a solution.
Boil some water and pour it into a bowl. Now, take the suction cup and dip it in the water. Be mindful that water can damage your dash cam, so make sure to take it off before dipping the suction cup.
Depending on the hardness level of your Nextbase suction cup, it may take 15 to 20 seconds.
Once done, you will notice that your Nextbase suction cup has become soft. Now dry it with a clean cloth and mount it on your vehicle.
Using a kitchen lighter is another effective way to soften your Nextbase suction cup. Turn on the kitchen lighter and heat the outer part of the rubber.
Be mindful that you only need to apply the flame on the outer part. The interior part of the suction pump may get damaged if it comes in contact with the flame.
Applying the heat for five to ten seconds will likely do the job for you. Make sure not to apply heat to any specific area for too long as it may melt the rubber. And yes, make sure to handle the kitchen lighter carefully. It may seem simple equipment, but it can cause a fire if not used with care.
You can also use a blow dryer or heat gun for this purpose. Once you have applied the heat, it will become softer than before. Stick it to your car and see if the problem is fixed.
2. Suction Cup Keeps Falling Off
Another common problem that many users have complained about another common problem while using the Nextbase dash cam: its suction cup keeps coming off.
According to those users, the suction cup stays in place during winter but falls off on a hot sunny day. Of course, it is quite frustrating for the user as it may damage the device attached to the suction cup.
If your area has a hot climate, the heat may cause the suction cup to expand. It will eventually lose its grip and come off.
Furthermore, consider applying petroleum jelly or oil on the sides of your suction cup after it has been installed. This will block its surroundings, preventing any air from entering the cup and making it loose again.
3. Suction Cup Is Damaged
In some cases, the suction cup of the Nextbase dash cam does not stick to the windscreen at all. If it sticks to the windscreen and comes off once in a while, it is normal and can be fixed using the aforementioned solutions.
However, if it detaches right after you stick it, the problem could be deeper. If you notice that your Nextbase suction cup is no longer staying on the windscreen, consider contacting the company.
They may provide you with a solution or recommend replacing it. If you have been using it for a long time, it may wear out over time.
The good news for you is that replacing the suction cup of the Nextbase dash cam is a piece of cake, and you can easily do it at home. However, if you have never replaced it before and find the process complicated, call in a professional.
Suction cups are readily available all over the world, and you do not need to buy the entire dash cam unit. Consider checking out the user manual for instructions regarding replacement to save yourself from headaches later.
The Bottom Line
Nextbase is a renowned company that manufactures industry-leading dash cams. However, the suction cups used in these cams can show numerous problems over time. Sometimes, they just refuse to stay in place, no matter how hard you try.
We have outlined all the problems and effective troubleshooting steps to fix this problem. Make sure to install the suction cup correctly and apply some moisture to ensure a firmer seal.