Can the Dash Cam Continue Recording After the Car is Turned Off?
4 Answers
Whether the dash cam can continue recording after the car is turned off is explained as follows: If the dash cam is equipped with a parking monitoring function, it can continue recording after the vehicle is turned off, but the recording time is not long, as the dash cam cannot be charged when the vehicle is off. Additional information: 1. Classification of dash cams: The parking monitoring function of dash cams is divided into two types, one is full-time recording, and the other is short-time recording that only starts when the vehicle is shaken. However, there is no dash cam that can continuously and persistently record after the car is turned off. 2. Working time of dash cams: Dash cams operate using the car's power during the day, and when the vehicle is turned off, the dash cam stops working. Although many dash cams come with built-in batteries, some batteries can only last for four or five hours at most, while others can only maintain power for about half an hour. Therefore, generally, dash cams cannot continue recording for a long time after the car is parked and turned off.
My car's dash cam can indeed record after the engine is off, but it depends on the specific settings. Most dash cams need to be connected to the vehicle's constant power line and use the parking monitoring function to detect vibrations before activating. This mode consumes less power but only captures the moment of impact. Some owners connect to a power bank or a voltage reduction cable to achieve 24-hour recording, but they should be mindful of the battery's lifespan. From my experience, it can last up to two days in summer and even shorter in winter. If the car is left unused for a long time, it's recommended to disconnect the power. Additionally, newer dash cams generally come with voltage detection and will automatically shut down when the battery voltage drops below 11.6 volts.
I've researched this, and there are three scenarios: First, using a standard cigarette lighter for power, which cuts off when the car key is removed; second, connecting to a constant power line in the fuse box with a step-down cable, enabling time-lapse recording or collision-triggered recording; third, using an external power bank, which can record continuously for several hours. Last month, while helping my neighbor with wiring, I discovered his car battery was old and drained after two days of constant power connection, leaving the car unable to start. Nowadays, better dash cams come with low-voltage protection. I recommend choosing a model with a supercapacitor for safer operation in high-temperature environments.
It depends on the dash cam type. Basic models stop recording when power is cut off, but those connected to the fuse box's constant power supply have parking surveillance and only wake up to record upon collision detection. I use this type with G-sensor functionality - it actually captured the culprit when an e-bike scratched my bumper last time. Just be mindful of battery drain; older cars are better off with a voltage protector. EVs like Tesla come with built-in Sentry Mode for peace of mind, while ICE vehicles require aftermarket modifications.
