Over the years I've noticed VIOFO changed the type of 3M adhesive pad included with their Dashcams.
We can all agree the older "grey" sticker pads were the worst.
I possibly discovered the main reason for variations in owner windshield mount performance. VIOFO likes to change the type of 3M stickers in Dashcam packaging. In many owner unboxing videos the 3M stickers are different within the same camera model.
My observations indicate:
- thinner stickers are very dense like gum = bad for curved windshield mounts // good in cold temps // good for stability // good in hot temps.
- thicker stickers are mostly spongy foam = good for curved windshield mounts // good in cold temps // bad for stability // bad in hot temps.
- VIOFO mount plastic surface varies greatly from model to model from stiff high slick surface to slightly flexible softer texture.
- VIOFO mount with pre-applied adhesive sticker usually results in center air gap on windshield for poor adhesion.
- VIOFO mount with pre-applied adhesive sticker does not have full adhesion as noted when peeled off.
Solutions:
- design larger windshield mounts with more surface area for improved adhesion.
- change to a medium thickness 3M adhesive sticker with superior bonding to plastic.
- design thicker stiff mount surface for 3M sticker that resists flex on the hollow mount shell.
- use higher grade thermally resistant plastic mount sticker surface for reliable 3M sticker adhesion .
- improve manufacturer mount surface cleaning before applying 3M sticker for maximum reliable bonding.
- include more than 2 spare 3M sticker pads for each camera to allow for owner DIY and multi vehicle installations.
To eliminate air gaps from larger 3M stickers the larger mounting surface could use two narrower windshield 3M sticker strips.
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