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Best Mount for Valentine Radar Detectors (V1 Gen2)
If you own a Valentine One or the newer V1 Gen2, you already know how much of a difference a good radar detector can make. But here’s something many people overlook: your mount is just as important as the detector itself. A poor mount can cause vibration, sagging, misalignment, and in some cases, the detector falling off your windshield on a hot day.
This blog explains the different mounting options and reveals which setup is truly the best mount for Valentine radar detectors
Why Mount Choice Matters
The Valentine One and V1 Gen2 rely on having a clear, level line of sight to detect radar and laser signals accurately. If your mount tilts, wobbles, or places the detector in the wrong position, performance will suffer.
Key goals for any radar detector mount:
- Keep the detector level and stable
- Reduce vibration on rough roads
- Maintain a clear forward view of the road
- Allow for clean wiring and quick removal
A weak mount can cause sagging, rattling, or worse—the detector dropping mid-drive.
Common Mount Types
| Mount Type | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windshield Suction Cups | Inexpensive and easy to position | Can fail in heat or cold, add vibration, leave glass marks, expose dangling cables | Temporary setups or rental cars |
| Generic Mirror Mounts | Higher placement for better line of sight, cleaner look, less visible, more stable than suction | Fit varies by vehicle, may loosen over time, not as rigid as a custom fit | Daily drivers who want a cleaner look |
| Custom-Fit, Vehicle-Specific Mounts | Rigid, factory-like fit; keeps detector level; hides wiring; minimizes vibration; discreet | Higher cost, must be purchased for your specific vehicle | Best overall for performance and stealth |
Our Top Pick
For the Valentine One and V1 Gen2, the best overall choice is a custom-fit, mirror-adjacent mount that locks into a factory point in your vehicle.
Here’s why:
| Keeps the detector steady and level for accurate arrow performance | Minimizes vibration, even on rough roads |
| Allows for clean, hidden hardwiring along the headliner | Blends in with factory equipment for a stealthy look |
Simply put, if you’re serious about performance and want a clean installation, this is the way to go.
Installation Tips
- Dry fit first: Make sure the detector sits level with a clear view forward.
- Route the wiring cleanly: Tuck it along the headliner and down the A-pillar.
- Hardwire if possible: This avoids cable clutter and frees up your 12V outlet.
- Check alignment with a phone app: Even a small tilt can affect performance.
- Test drive: Listen for rattles and make small adjustments if needed.
FAQ
| What is the best mount for the Valentine V1 Gen2? | A rigid, vehicle-specific mount near the rearview mirror is the most stable, discreet, and reliable option. |
|---|---|
| Does mounting height affect performance? | Yes. Higher placement is generally better, as long as the detector remains level and unobstructed. |
| Is it legal to use a radar detector everywhere? | No. Radar detectors are illegal in Virginia and Washington, D.C., and are also prohibited in commercial vehicles under federal law. Always check your local laws. |
| Can I move my Valentine between cars? | Yes, but the benefits of a custom-fit mount are best realized when it stays installed in a single vehicle. |
Final Thoughts
The Valentine One and V1 Gen2 are powerful detectors, but they’re only as good as their placement. Suction cups are fine for short-term use, and generic mirror mounts work in a pinch, but if you want the best performance and a factory-clean look, invest in a custom-fit, vehicle-specific mount. It’s the difference between a shaky setup and a professional-grade installation.
