Why Do Dash Cam Memory Cards Frequently Get Damaged?
3 Answers
The main reasons for frequent damage to dash cam memory cards are poor memory card quality and issues with the dash cam itself. Below is a detailed explanation of the common causes of memory card damage: Poor Memory Card Quality: Low-quality memory cards are more prone to damage. It is recommended to use high-speed memory cards and format them regularly (every 3 months), replacing them with new ones after a year. Additionally, try to lower the resolution while maintaining clarity. Issues with the Dash Cam: Problems with the dash cam, such as high voltage or current, can potentially burn out the memory card. Do not insert or remove the memory card while the dash cam is powered on; always turn it off first before handling the card. Forcibly removing the card can easily damage it, as memory cards do not support hot-swapping. In general, it is best to minimize inserting and removing the memory card from the dash cam. Typically, a memory card can last several years in a dash cam without any issues.
I feel that the memory card in my dash cam keeps failing mainly because it's constantly in a read-write state, unlike regular storage devices that are only used occasionally. It's like making the card work non-stop 24/7, which naturally leads to faster wear and tear. Plus, the car's interior environment is terrible—in summer, it can get as hot as a steamer with temperatures soaring to 60-70°C, causing components in the memory card to malfunction under high heat. In winter, the cold makes materials brittle, and constant bumps and vibrations from driving can loosen the contact points when inserting or removing the card. I tried using cheap cards myself, and they failed within six months. Switching to high-endurance cards like the Samsung Pro or Sandisk Extreme series, which are specifically designed to withstand high temperatures and vibrations, improved the situation significantly. Also, the frequency of formatting matters—it's best to do it once a month using exFAT format to avoid file fragmentation buildup, which can effectively extend the card's lifespan. If the card frequently gets full and overwrites automatically, the system load increases, putting more pressure on the card. So, it's important to regularly back up and delete old files.
I've been thinking about why memory cards fail so quickly, and there are quite a few reasons. For example, power fluctuations when the car is running, or voltage spikes during startup can damage the card's circuitry. High environmental temperatures, especially when the car is parked outdoors in direct sunlight, can cause the interior to heat up and damage the card inside the device. Vibration is another factor—road bumps can cause the read/write head to shift, leading to poor contact. User habits also play a role; I've seen many people frequently inserting and removing the card to check recordings, which wears out the interface over time. The quality of the cards themselves varies greatly—cheap, off-brand cards have a shorter lifespan, while professional high-endurance cards perform much better. Choosing Class 10 or U3 standard cards can handle continuous recording. Regularly clean the device's cooling vents to ensure proper ventilation. When parking, try to avoid direct sunlight by using sunshades. Don't let the card fill up to its automatic overwrite limit; set up loop recording but leave some space to reduce heat and workload.
