Why Does the Dash Cam Time Always Reset Automatically?

[ONorah]

The reasons why the dash cam time always resets automatically: 1. For built-in dash cams in the car, it is most likely due to incorrect wiring. Generally, a dash cam has three wires: one for constant power, one for ACC, and one for grounding. If the constant power wire is connected incorrectly, it may cause the dash cam to reset to factory settings automatically. 2. For externally installed dash cams, it is likely because the internal battery has failed due to prolonged use. Dash cams serve as strong physical evidence for traffic police departments. In the event of various traffic accidents, dash cams can protect the rights of drivers by replaying the recorded footage, making the accident responsibilities clear at a glance. This enables traffic police to handle accidents quickly and accurately, allowing for rapid clearance of the scene to restore traffic flow while preserving effective evidence of the incident, thereby creating a safe and smooth traffic environment.

[MacMaci]

I found that the dash cam time keeps resetting automatically, mainly due to several reasons. Aging of the built-in lithium battery is a common issue—after prolonged use, insufficient battery power prevents it from saving settings when parked. Another reason is improper GPS synchronization; if the signal is weak or settings are incorrect, the dash cam relies on its own battery, making it prone to reverting to default time. There are also software bugs—outdated firmware can cause confusion. I’ve encountered this several times, especially in cold winters when battery performance drops, and the time often resets to factory settings. The solution is simple: replace the battery (costs just a few bucks) or charge it regularly; check if the GPS antenna is properly connected and wait for a stable signal after starting the car before turning on the dash cam; update firmware periodically to prevent issues. Don’t underestimate this—incorrect timestamps on recordings can make evidence unreliable after an accident, which is troublesome. I recommend choosing a model with a supercapacitor for longer lifespan and less hassle. Anyway, for daily driving, checking connection cables and settings can avoid a lot of trouble.

[PaulAnn]

Having driven for over a decade, my dash cam used to frequently reset its time. Usually, it's due to the battery reaching the end of its lifespan, or the power cable being loose, causing unstable power supply from the cigarette lighter—turning off the engine cuts power, preventing time from being saved. Check if the USB port is securely connected; if the battery is swollen, it needs replacement. Sometimes, poor GPS antenna placement leads to weak signals and failed synchronization, especially when parked under shade or in tunnels, making errors more likely. I recommend testing the connection in an open area; if that doesn't work, try resetting the settings. Large temperature fluctuations, particularly summer heat, can easily damage the battery, worsening the issue. Adding a backup power bank solved my problem. Incorrect dash cam timestamps once left me with insufficient evidence during an insurance claim, so I now check firmware versions during routine maintenance and update promptly to prevent issues. Switching to a high-quality cable or securing the device properly also helps. Most importantly, don’t delay fixing it—safety comes first. Waiting a few seconds after starting the car before turning on the dash cam improves reliability.

[McRhett]

My dash cam frequently resetting the time is mostly due to battery failure or software issues. The built-in battery is too small and tends to fail after a few years, causing time reset upon power restoration. Poor GPS synchronization settings may also cause it to revert to default. Simply check the connection cables and antenna position. Battery performance deteriorates in extremely low temperatures, making issues more likely. Regular charging or replacement is recommended. Software updates often improve the situation. Buying a branded dash cam saves trouble. Incorrect timestamps lead to invalid evidence after accidents. Saves money on maintenance.