Does a Dash Cam Have a Rearview Camera Function?

[StJuliana]

Generally, dash cams are primarily used to record driving conditions. Some models can function not only as recorders but also include a rearview camera feature. Beyond these two functions, certain dash cams can even display a simulated bird's-eye view of the vehicle on the car's display screen, which is particularly useful during driving or parking. Here is some additional information: Dash Cam: A dash cam is a device that records images, sounds, and other relevant data during vehicle operation. After installation, it can capture the entire driving process in video and audio, providing evidence in case of traffic accidents. For those who enjoy road trips, it can also be used to document the journey through challenging terrains.

[FernandoFitz]

I've been driving for seven or eight years and have gone through three dash cams. Their main job is video evidence collection, and a rearview camera is really not a standard feature. Some high-end models come with a rear camera that switches to the rear view when you shift into reverse, serving as a makeshift parking aid. However, the image quality is usually not as clear as the factory-installed rearview camera, especially in low-light conditions at night. The one I installed last year had this feature, but there was a half-second delay, and I almost scraped the wall while reversing in a narrow alley. If you really want a convenient parking aid, installing a dedicated rearview camera designed for your specific car model is more reliable—it offers a wider field of view and no delay.

[JocelynFitz]

A friend who's into car modifications told me that dash cams and reversing cameras are essentially two separate systems. Dash cams focus on loop recording videos, while reversing cameras rely on the linkage between the rear camera and the display. Some new car models now integrate the rear camera of the dash cam into the reversing system, but third-party accessories often struggle with perfect compatibility. The 500-yuan dash cam with a rear camera in my car pops up an image on the screen when reversing, but the distortion is severe, and on rainy days, it's all water stains and hard to see. The key is to check if the product explicitly states it has reversing camera functionality—ordinary single-lens dash cams definitely don't have this capability.

[VanNicole]

When choosing a dash cam, I specifically researched the features. Most dash cams don't come with a rearview camera function, mainly using wide-angle lenses to record driving footage. If you want both functions, you'll need to buy a dual-camera version, with the rear camera mounted on the rear windshield or near the license plate. After installation, it needs to be connected to the reverse light circuit to automatically switch the screen when shifting into reverse. But honestly, the effect is compromised: the edges of the wide-angle lens are distorted, and there's significant noise at night. It might be better to spend an extra two hundred to install a separate reversing radar. If you're on a tight budget, I recommend prioritizing the dash cam's core recording function.

[DelEzra]

Reversing safety is paramount, and I recommend using dedicated devices for specific purposes. Dash cams are primarily designed for recording frontal incidents, with rear cameras serving at best as auxiliary features. Some brands market all-in-one devices, but in practice, they often respond sluggishly. Last week, while helping a neighbor set up his newly purchased dash cam with a rear camera, the display froze twice during reversing, nearly resulting in a collision with an electric scooter behind. Factory-installed reversing cameras come with specialized control modules and calibration, which third-party devices can hardly match. For true peace of mind, consider installing a full surround-view camera system for more comprehensive coverage.