Can the Dash Cam Still Record When the Car is Parked?
4 Answers
If the dash cam is equipped with a parking monitoring function, it can continue recording for a period of time after the vehicle is turned off. More details about dash cams are as follows: 1. Introduction: A dash cam is a device that records images, sounds, and other relevant information during vehicle travel. 2. Function: After installing a dash cam, it can record the entire driving process in video and audio, providing evidence for traffic accidents. 3. Classification: Based on the number of cameras, dash cams are generally categorized into 2-channel, 3-channel, and 4-channel models. One of the 5-channel inputs can be used for a reversing camera, while the other four are for recording driving footage. Depending on the vehicle model and functionality, dash cams can be classified into high-definition dash cams, mini dash cams, night-vision dash cams, wide-angle dash cams, dual-lens dash cams, multi-function integrated devices, and glasses-style multi-function dash cams.
My dash cam has been installed for three years, and I'm very familiar with the parking monitoring function. The key to continuous recording after turning off the engine is to connect it to the battery's constant power supply. During installation, the technician helped me connect the power cable to the constant power position in the fuse box, so the dash cam can keep running after the engine is off. The vibration sensor is especially useful—last month, my car was scratched by a bicycle while parked in front of a supermarket, and the sensor triggered to record the entire incident. However, it's crucial to pay attention to battery protection. I set an automatic power-off threshold at 11.6 volts. If parking continuously for more than five days, it's best to turn off the function to avoid the embarrassment of a dead battery. For daily use, I recommend the collision-activated mode, which saves 80% more power compared to time-lapse recording and also allows emergency videos to be saved and locked separately.
After researching over a dozen dash cams, I found that parking recording requires three conditions: hardware support for parking monitoring, using constant power supply instead of cigarette lighter power, and proper sensitivity settings. Connecting to the car battery requires a voltage reducer cable, otherwise unstable voltage may damage the device. I discovered that vibration detection has three levels - medium sensitivity works best in urban areas, as high sensitivity may falsely record falling leaves. Battery capacity is also crucial - a 60Ah battery can power a dash cam for up to five days at most, and adding a super capacitor can extend its lifespan. Built-in battery models are only suitable for short-term monitoring and pose safety risks in summer heat, so I don't recommend them.
Actual test of battery drain with parking mode enabled: Approximately 8% power consumption over 48 hours, which is barely acceptable. However, three key points: 1. Must connect to a constant power source interface. 2. Enable low-voltage automatic power-off protection. 3. Prioritize collision-triggered recording over 24-hour continuous recording. My Hyundai car, equipped with a dashcam, went through a winter with temperatures as low as -10°C without any battery drain issues. For long-term parking, simply unplug the power cable. When modifying the wiring, add a fuse to prevent short circuits. When choosing a dashcam, remember to check if it has a G-sensor; otherwise, vibration detection may be inaccurate.
