Why does the dash cam not light up after being turned on?
4 Answers
If the dash cam does not light up after being turned on, it may be due to the screen saver function being activated either during startup or by default. Another possible reason is a power connection issue, which requires checking the power supply. By installing a dash cam, drivers can record video and audio during vehicle operation, which typically serves as evidence in traffic accidents, safeguarding the driver's legal rights. The dash cam also records the vehicle's speed, time, and location within the footage, functioning similarly to a black box in an aircraft. When the vehicle is not in use, it can also serve as a parking monitor. However, the video data stored in the dash cam cannot be edited, as any alterations would render it useless in providing assistance during traffic accidents.
I'm a regular at the auto repair shop and have seen many cases of dash cams not turning on. It's most likely a power supply issue: first check if the cigarette lighter charger head is loose—sometimes a bump can cut the power. Then inspect the cigarette lighter fuse, located in the black box under the driver's side dashboard; use needle-nose pliers to pull it out and check against the light. If these are fine, try plugging in a phone charger to test if the cigarette lighter port has power. If the issue persists, the dash cam itself might be faulty—if it heats up when plugged in but shows no display, the motherboard is probably dead. Also, a broken screen can cause a black display; press the emergency recording button to see if the indicator light flashes—this will tell you if the device is completely dead.
All three dash cams in my household have broken at least once. Let me share the common issues. Power supply instability is the most frequent problem, especially in older car models with significant voltage fluctuations. Next is overheating in summer causing the device to shut down for self-protection—try removing it and blowing cool air from the AC vent for a few minutes to see if it revives. Faulty memory cards are another headache; if the card fails, the device may freeze on the startup screen—try ejecting it, formatting via card reader on a computer. Firmware bugs may also occur—hold both power and reset buttons for 10 seconds to force reboot. Don't overlook oxidized connectors causing poor contact either—wiping metal contacts with a damp cloth might bring it back to life.
If the dash cam is not lighting up, focus on checking three modules: 1. Power Module: Use a multimeter to measure the output voltage of the car charger; it should normally be 5V. 2. Host Module: Smell for any burnt odor, and long-press the power button to listen for any startup sound. 3. Display Module: Shine a flashlight on the screen to see if there's a faint image; if there is, the backlight is likely broken. It's recommended to carry a spare Mini USB cable. Connecting it directly to a power bank can quickly determine whether the issue lies with the car charger or the device itself. Note: For vehicles with modified wiring, extra caution is needed. There have been cases where incorrect connection of the step-down cable's positive and negative terminals burned through the dash cam.
