Does the Dash Cam Still Record After the Car Power is Off?

[LaHarley]

After the car power is turned off, the dash cam can still record for about 30 seconds. This is mainly due to the residual power inside the dash cam, which is relatively low, so the recording time is also very short. Generally, the dash cam is connected to the car's battery. If the car's power is turned off and the dash cam does not have a parking recording function, it will usually stop recording after the car is parked. The dash cam is an instrument used to record video and audio during the vehicle's operation. By installing a dash cam, it can record the video and audio during driving, which can serve as evidence in the event of a traffic accident to protect the driver's legal rights. The dash cam is equivalent to the black box of a car, but the video data inside cannot be edited. Once edited, it cannot be used as evidence to assist in traffic accidents. All dash cams consist of a host, sensors, data analysis software, and an infrared camera. The video data from the dash cam can be viewed through the corresponding mobile app.

[VonChloe]

A few days ago, my car shut down, and the dash cam stopped working too. I thought it was malfunctioning and not recording. Later, I learned that standard devices rely on the car's cigarette lighter power. Once the engine is turned off or the battery is disconnected, the power supply is cut off, and it automatically shuts down and stops working. Unless your dash cam has a built-in lithium battery or supercapacitor that can last 5-15 minutes after power loss, triggering parking monitoring like collision detection. I tried one brand, but the battery life was a bit short, and it failed faster in cold weather. I recommend choosing a model with a built-in backup power source when buying a car, or connecting an external power bank to extend recording time to prevent unexpected incidents—don’t regret not checking earlier like I did. Also, pay attention to battery maintenance to avoid over-discharging, which affects durability.

[VonRuth]

I have some knowledge of electronic principles and understand that dash cams usually cannot record after the car is completely powered off, as the power supply is cut off. Only devices equipped with rechargeable batteries are exceptions, such as the mid-to-high-end model I use, whose battery can sustain 10-30 minutes of capturing vibration events. There are significant differences between models. Those with G-sensors intelligently switch modes, but hardwiring to the battery or OBD port can easily lead to excessive power consumption. For daily use, it's recommended to choose a capacitor-based dash cam, which charges and discharges quickly, making it suitable for short-term parking monitoring. When setting up, adjust the voltage protection to prevent battery depletion. From experience, regularly testing the functionality ensures reliability, especially in urban areas where it can enhance safety.

[Bridget]

Safety is a big concern for me. If the dash cam stops working after a power outage, it might miss critical events like scratches or collisions. Many devices support parking mode, relying on built-in power to trigger recording, but you need to ensure proper settings and battery health. My solution is using a hardwiring setup, but be cautious about draining the main battery and causing starting issues. A simpler option is adding a backup battery for peace of mind and risk prevention. Regularly maintain connection points to prevent malfunctions and avoid repair costs. In practice, I've seen cases where missing footage led to disputes, so investing in reliable equipment is crucial, especially for those who frequently park in public spaces.

[Joseph]

As a budget-conscious user, I believe that basic models usually can't record after power loss unless you invest in a high-end version with a built-in battery. The entry-level options are cheaper but stop working once the engine is off. I've opted for mid-range capacitor-based devices—durable and cost-effective. Solutions like using a USB power adapter or portable power bank to temporarily extend recording time are incredibly practical. Before purchasing, compare brand value for money and read reviews—some options only cost a few dozen bucks. Don’t overlook maintenance; keeping the wiring clean minimizes damage and saves money. Routinely check dash cam settings before turning off the engine to avoid resource waste—economical and efficient.