Fix Your Stubborn Dash Cam Suction Mounts: Two Easy Methods

Updated at: 13/05/2025

Dash cams offer invaluable peace of mind and crucial evidence in the event of an accident, but their effectiveness hinges on a secure mount. Frustratingly, many dash cam suction cups stubbornly refuse to adhere, leaving your precious recording device dangling precariously or falling entirely. This constant battle against gravity not only compromises your footage but also risks damaging your dash cam and potentially your vehicle's interior. A loose dash cam is a useless dash cam. We've all been there, wrestling with a suction cup that just won't stick.

This article provides two simple yet effective methods to conquer this common problem and finally secure your dash cam. Forget wrestling with wobbly mounts – we'll guide you through straightforward, step-by-step instructions to ensure a rock-solid grip, no matter the surface or weather conditions. Let's get your dash cam firmly fixed and recording with confidence.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Boiling water
  • Bowl
  • Cloth
  • Kitchen lighter
Safety Guidelines
  • Never obstruct your view while driving. Ensure the dash cam and its mount do not interfere with your ability to safely operate the vehicle.
  • Avoid placing the suction cup on a cracked or damaged windshield. This can compromise the suction and potentially damage your windshield further.
  • If using cleaning solutions, ensure they are compatible with your windshield and dash cam materials. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage either surface.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Boiling Water Method

    • Soften the suction cup rubber using boiling water.
    • Submerge only the rubber part of the suction cup in boiling water for 10-15 seconds (adjust time based on rubber hardness).
    • Remove and dry the suction cup with a cloth.
    • Attempt to attach the suction cup to the windscreen; it should adhere firmly.
    Attempt to attach the suction cup to the windscreen; it should adhere firmly.Attempt to attach the suction cup to the windscreen; it should adhere firmly.Attempt to attach the suction cup to the windscreen; it should adhere firmly.Attempt to attach the suction cup to the windscreen; it should adhere firmly.
    Boiling Water Method
    • Soften the suction cup rubber using a kitchen lighter.
    • Gently heat the outer part of the rubber, focusing on the dimpled area, using the kitchen lighter. Avoid overheating or melting the rubber by keeping the flame moving and applying heat for only a few seconds at a time.
    • Check the rubber's softness; it should be noticeably softer.
    • Attach the suction cup to the windscreen; it should adhere firmly.
    Attach the suction cup to the windscreen; it should adhere firmly.Attach the suction cup to the windscreen; it should adhere firmly.Attach the suction cup to the windscreen; it should adhere firmly.Attach the suction cup to the windscreen; it should adhere firmly.
    Boiling Water Method

  2. Lighter Method

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Tips

  • Don't submerge the entire suction mount in boiling water, only the rubber part.
  • When using a lighter, avoid concentrating the heat in one spot for too long to prevent melting the rubber.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Dirty Windshield

Reason: Dust, grime, and oil on the windshield prevent the suction cup from creating a proper seal.
Solution: Clean the windshield thoroughly with glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth before attaching the suction cup.

2. Incorrect Suction Cup Placement

Reason: Applying the suction cup to a curved or textured surface weakens the suction and makes it prone to falling.
Solution: Ensure the suction cup is placed on a flat, clean, and smooth area of the windshield.

3. Not Pressing Firmly Enough

Reason: Insufficient pressure during application prevents the suction cup from creating maximum vacuum.
Solution: Press the suction cup firmly and evenly against the windshield for at least 10 seconds, ensuring complete contact.

FAQs

My dash cam suction cup is still loose even after cleaning the surface. What else can I do?
Try using a different mounting location on your windshield. Sometimes, the curvature or texture of the glass can affect adhesion. Ensure the surface is completely smooth and free from any dust or film. Consider using a small amount of isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) for a deeper clean, followed by a thorough dry.
What if my dash cam's suction cup is damaged or worn out?
A damaged suction cup will not provide a secure hold. You'll need to replace it. Check your dash cam's manufacturer website or a retailer for replacement suction cups or complete mounting kits specific to your model.
My windshield is tinted. Will this affect the suction cup's grip?
Tinted windshields can sometimes reduce the effectiveness of suction cups, but it's not always a deal-breaker. Make sure to thoroughly clean the surface, paying extra attention to remove any films or coatings. If it continues to be problematic, consider using a dash cam mount that utilizes an alternative attachment method, such as a sticky pad or a vent mount.