How to Install a VCR in Your Car

During long drives, you may entertain passengers in your car by installing a VCR. You can buy VCRs made especially for cars that run off the vehicle's 12-volt power supply and connect to the vehicle's video monitor or A/V selector box. Here's how to install one.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver
• A/V cable
• VCR
• Wrench/socket
• Wire cutter and stripper

1. Open the car's hood and remove the battery cables from the battery. Use the proper size socket or wrench so you don't strip the cable's nut.

2. Mount the VCR in a spot where it won't get kicked (many people put it under the passenger seat). Use the mounting brackets that came with the unit to attach the VCR to the car's floor.

3. Get power to the VCR. Each VCR is wired differently. Some must be wired to the fuse box and attached to an accessory output. Other makes must be connected to another power wire by splicing. Follow the wiring instructions supplied with your VCR. Make sure the ground wire is attached to the chassis.

4. Route an A/V cable from the VCR to the monitor or A/V selector box. Plug one end of the cable into the video output of the VCR and the other end into a video input on the monitor or A/V selector box.

5. Reconnect the battery and start the car. Put a videocassette in the VCR and make sure the signal is reaching the video monitors and the setup works.

Tips & Warnings

• Mount the VCR in a spot where it will not get wet. Under the passenger seat is usually a good choice.
• If you are not confident in your ability to perform this installation, or if you try to install the VCR and it doesn't work, hire a professional.
• Do not install any electrical equipment with the car battery connected. You risk serious injury or death if you forget to disconnect the battery.
• It's illegal to operate video equipment while driving if the monitor can be viewed by the driver.