Installation Best Practices

Updated November 20, 2025 18:27

This article contains Motive’s official installation policy and procedures for all installation professionals.

Procedures

Installers should use the correct cables for each vehicle, as listed in the FSP's Cables tab. Search for cable product IDs on the Motive Help Center for easier identification.
Report any issues such as defective equipment, missing cables, or customer no-shows, to your Motive Point of Contact (POC).
When hardwiring, always try to use a spare circuit if one is available, instead of tapping into an existing circuit.
Be ready to add an inline fuse to any circuit that isn’t already protected by Motive.
Follow the installation preferences discussed during the kickoff call.

Turn off the ignition on all vehicles and equipment before starting any installation work.
Perform a detailed inspection of the vehicle, noting any existing issues such as physical damage (such as cracked panels, missing screws, broken clips, and cracked windshield) or warning lights (such as check-engine lights or diagnostic trouble codes).

Follow the installation guide and best practices for cable management and device mounting.
Install Vehicle Gateways with the Motive logo facing up or outward toward the vehicle body. Avoid positioning the logo facing down or under thick metal.
Avoid placing the Vehicle Gateway under metal components that may interfere with GPS signal strength whenever feasible.
For in-dash, covert installs, don’t rely solely on vehicle adhesive. Use zip ties to secure the Vehicle Gateway and cables whenever possible.
Avoid putting excessive stress on Motive cables or their connection points. Instead, use a 6-inch diameter loop and avoid bending cables into a dog-bone shape.
Ensure solar-powered Asset Gateways have a clear view of the sky.
Create a drip loop for the Asset Gateway’s cable when necessary to prevent water damage.
Ensure that the Dashcams comply with DOT regulations, do not block the Driver’s view, and are within the windshield wiper’s sweep area.
Position road-facing cameras so Drivers can see the hood and mirrors, with the horizon near the center of the camera’s vertical view.
Position Driver-facing cameras to capture the Driver from the waist up, with minimal obstructions.
Clean and dry all surfaces before applying adhesive mounts.
Before drilling, check for any components behind the drill site to avoid damaging the vehicle.

Verify that the equipment is installed properly by checking the LED lights and installation apps.
Make sure the vehicle is returned in the same condition it was in before installation.
Do not unplug the device or turn off the vehicle during setup or firmware updates (See Vehicle Gateway LED lights are Blinking Orange and Green).

Note: Any connections made outside the vehicle should be waterproof. Use heat shrink butt

connectors or posi tite connectors to ensure a secure and weather-resistant connection.

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