Can the Dash Cam Record When the Car is Parked?

[McAlexandra]

When parked, the dash cam can still record, but it will automatically turn off after a certain period. Generally, a dash cam does not record when the car is not powered on. However, there are dash cams with built-in recording functions, including parking monitoring, which can continue recording even when the car is parked. Whether the dash cam works depends on the type of power connection. Some factory-installed dash cams are connected to a constant power supply, allowing 24-hour recording without automatic shutdown. If connected to ACC (Accessory), the dash cam will automatically turn off when the car is turned off. A dash cam is a device that records video and audio during vehicle operation. Once installed, it can capture the entire driving process, providing evidence in case of traffic accidents. The recorded footage must not be edited, as this may render it useless in determining responsibility after an accident. Components of a dash cam: Main unit (includes a microprocessor, data storage, real-time clock, display, lens module, operation keys, printer, data communication interface, etc.); speed sensor; data analysis software; infrared camera.

[VonKate]

I've been driving for over a decade and have extensive experience with various dash cams. Whether it can record when parked mainly depends on having a parking monitoring function. Those dash cams with parking mode will automatically switch to low-power state after the engine turns off, and only start recording when detecting vibrations or movement - like when someone hits your car or vandalizes it, capturing license plates as evidence. The one I installed is connected to the vehicle's fuse box using a step-down cable, ensuring constant power supply without draining the battery. Last time when my parked car got scratched on the roadside, the dash cam footage provided crucial evidence. One thing to note: prolonged parking without driving may drain the battery, especially in winter or with older car batteries. Choosing products with automatic power-off protection is safer. Regular dash cams powered through cigarette lighter ports shut down immediately after turning off the engine, recording nothing. That's why selecting models with parking surveillance is truly useful, especially in chaotic parking areas or public spaces.

[SanTaylor]

Whether the dash cam works while parked is a safety issue. If the product you purchase supports parking mode, it can indeed record potential risks, such as collisions or theft. I once encountered a situation where my car was scratched by a stranger in a shopping mall parking lot, and I only found the responsible party by reviewing the footage afterward. However, this requires specific features and hardwiring installation—connecting to the fuse box with a voltage reducer to avoid draining the battery, as ordinary USB-powered cameras turn off directly after the engine is shut off. It's advisable to prioritize dash cams with parking surveillance. Spending an extra hundred or two is worth it because it can save you from high repair costs later if you can't identify the culprit, significantly improving safety. Regularly checking your car battery's condition is also a good precaution.

[Rhett]

When I first bought a car, I was curious whether the dashcam would still record while parked. I tested a regular model powered by the cigarette lighter, and it stopped recording as soon as the car was turned off. Later, I upgraded to one with parking surveillance, installed a voltage reducer connected to the fuse box, and now it automatically starts recording if someone approaches while parked in the neighborhood. It feels much more reassuring, though it drains the battery a bit faster, so I need to drive occasionally to recharge. A regular dashcam can't record anything when parked anywhere.

[LeRyan]

From a cost perspective, dash cams with parking recording capability are usually more expensive, and installation requires a voltage reduction cable costing 50 to 100 yuan. However, they can prevent significant losses: if your car gets scratched and you can't find the culprit, repairs could cost thousands, but having this feature to capture evidence can save you that expense. I've personally used a mid-range product with parking mode for two years without any issues—just choose a low-power model to avoid draining the battery. Regular dash cams shut off when the engine is off and are useless in such scenarios. Investing a small amount can bring great peace of mind.