How to Use a Static Cling Dash Cam Mount

What a static cling mount is

A static cling dash cam mount uses a thin, smooth film or disc that sticks to glass without glue. The film stays in place through surface contact and light suction-like pressure, so you can remove it and reapply it many times. That makes it an easy choice if you want to avoid permanent adhesive or if you plan to use the camera in more than one car.

Static cling mounts are not the same as adhesive pads or suction cups. Adhesive pads leave residue when removed, and suction cups rely on a rubber cup that can lose grip in heat. Static cling films have no sticky layer, so they are cleaner to remove. To see how they compare with other mounting styles, read dash cam mount types.

Prepare the glass before attaching

The most important step is a clean windshield. Dirt, fingerprints, and oily film from dashboard treatments can keep the cling film from holding. Wipe the glass with a clean microfiber cloth and a glass cleaner that dries without streaks. Do the same to the cling side of the mount if it has collected dust or oil.

Give the glass a minute to dry. A wet surface can trap air and reduce contact. If your windshield has a rain sensor housing or a large camera pod near the mirror, you may need to place the mount beside it. See how to prepare windshield for dash cam install for more detail.

Attach the mount without adhesive

Remove the protective backing from the static cling film. Lightly hold the film at one edge and line it up where you want the camera. Press the middle of the film onto the glass with your finger, then work outward toward the edges. This pushes out air and gives you the largest contact area.

After the film is on the glass, attach the dash cam and check the angle. The mount usually has a ball joint or swivel that lets you tilt the lens. Aim the lens so the horizon sits in the upper part of the frame and the hood appears at the bottom. If your windshield is curved, start in the flattest area of glass and avoid pressing the film onto a severe bend. For more help, read how to mount a dash cam on a curved windshield.

• Place the camera mount bracket on the cling film if it is separate, or click the camera into the mount after the film is set.
• Use a plastic card or a soft cloth wrapped around your finger to smooth out bubbles.
• Avoid touching the cling surface with oily fingers.
• Keep the film away from sharp edges that could crease it.

Position the camera for a clear view

Place the static cling mount high enough that the camera has an unobstructed view of the road, but not so high that the lens is hidden behind the mirror or blocked by the headliner. Keep the mount out of the area swept by the windshield wipers if possible, because rain and dirt on that part of the glass can make footage less useful.

Make sure the mount does not block your view of the road, traffic lights, or the rearview mirror. Some vehicles have cameras or sensors near the rearview mirror for driver assistance features, so keep the cling mount away from that housing to avoid interfering with those systems. Road safety organizations stress the importance of keeping attention on the road, so choose a spot that lets you forget the camera is there.

Move the mount between vehicles

To move a static cling mount to another vehicle, first remove the dash cam from the mount. Gently lift a corner of the film and peel it away from the glass. Do not fold the film. Place it back on the plastic backing sheet if you kept it, or lay it on a clean, flat, smooth surface until you are ready to reinstall it.

When you reach the second car, clean the windshield and repeat the same attachment process. Because there is no adhesive, the mount can be repositioned several times before it starts to lose grip. If the film becomes dirty, wash it with mild soapy water, rinse it, let it dry, and return it to the glass. For more on sharing one camera between vehicles, see how to transfer a dash cam to another car. If you are converting from an old adhesive mount, follow how to remove dash cam adhesive residue first.

Troubleshooting and keeping the mount secure

A static cling mount can lose its hold if the glass or film is dirty, if the film is creased, or if the mount is applied to a textured surface. If it keeps falling, remove it, clean both surfaces, and press it back on. Some mounts work better on glass with a slight curve than on a very sharp curve, so test the film before you commit your camera to a spot.

Static cling mounts are designed for smooth glass, so avoid using them on dashboard plastic or rough interior panels. Always remove the camera before peeling the film, and return the film to its backing sheet when the camera is not in use.

• Do not use a static cling mount on a heavily textured dashboard or rough plastic.
• Do not pull the camera off by the film. Remove the camera first, then peel the film.
• Store the film on its backing sheet when it is off the windshield so it does not collect lint.
• Check the film before very hot weather; if the edge is lifting, press it back while the glass is cool.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Can a static cling mount be reused?

Yes. Clean the glass, press the film on, and peel it off when you need to move the camera. Store the film on its backing sheet between uses to keep it clean.

Does a static cling mount leave marks on the windshield?

It does not use adhesive, so it should not leave sticky residue. You may still need to wipe the glass after removing the mount because the film can collect dust and oils.

Will a static cling mount work on a curved windshield?

It works best on smooth glass. Place the film in the flattest section of the windshield and press from the center outward. Avoid sharp bends that could keep the film from making full contact.

What should I do if the mount keeps falling off?

Remove the film, clean the glass and the cling side, then reapply it. Make sure the glass is dry, free of oils, and not heavily textured. If the film is creased, replace the mount with a fresh one.

Can I attach a static cling mount over tint?

It may work on smooth tinted glass, but tint film can change the surface. Check with the tint installer or your vehicle manual before attaching and removing a mount on tinted windows.