Do all dash cams record when the car is off, or is that a feature specific to certain models? If it’s a specific feature, what is it typically called (e.g., parking mode)? And if a dash cam does record when the car is off, how does it get its power? Does it drain the car battery significantly, and are there any safeguards to prevent it from completely draining the battery? Finally, what are the pros and cons of using a dash cam that records when the car is off, considering both security and battery life?

Answer

No, not all dash cams record when the car is off. Whether a dash cam records when the car is off depends on its features, power source, and settings.

Factors Determining Off-Mode Recording:

• Power Source:

  • Connected to the Car’s 12V Outlet (Cigarette Lighter): These dash cams typically only record when the ignition is on, as the 12V outlet is usually only powered when the car is running. Once the car is turned off, the dash cam loses power and stops recording.
  • Hardwired to the Car’s Electrical System: Hardwiring involves connecting the dash cam directly to the car’s fuse box. This allows the dash cam to draw power even when the ignition is off.
  • Internal Battery: Some dash cams have built-in batteries. They can record for a limited time when the car is off, until the battery is depleted. The duration of recording depends on the battery capacity.
  • External Battery Pack: Some users connect their dash cams to an external battery pack specifically designed for parking mode. This offers extended recording time compared to internal batteries.

• Parking Mode Feature: Dash cams designed for off-mode recording usually have a "parking mode" feature. Parking mode is an umbrella term for various low-power recording methods when the vehicle is stationary.

• Types of Parking Mode:

  • Motion Detection: The dash cam monitors its surroundings for movement. If motion is detected, it starts recording.
  • Impact Detection (G-Sensor): The dash cam uses a G-sensor (accelerometer) to detect impacts or sudden movements. If an impact is detected (e.g., someone bumping into the car), the camera starts recording.
  • Time-Lapse Recording: The dash cam records at a very low frame rate (e.g., 1 frame per second) to conserve power and memory. This creates a sped-up video that can be reviewed later.
  • Low Bitrate Recording: The dash cam continuously records at a low bitrate and resolution to minimize power consumption and storage usage. When an event is detected (motion or impact), it switches to normal recording.
  • Buffered Recording: The dash cam constantly records a short loop of video (e.g., 15 seconds). When an event is detected, it saves the loop before and after the event, capturing the moments leading up to and following the incident.

• Settings: Even if a dash cam has parking mode capabilities, it needs to be enabled in the settings menu. Some dash cams allow you to customize the sensitivity of the motion and impact detection.

• Voltage Cut-Off (Hardwired Kits): When hardwiring a dash cam for parking mode, it’s crucial to use a hardwire kit that includes a voltage cut-off feature. This prevents the dash cam from draining the car’s battery to the point where it won’t start. The hardwire kit monitors the car’s battery voltage, and if it drops below a certain threshold, it automatically cuts off power to the dash cam.

Considerations for Off-Mode Recording:

• Battery Drain: Recording while the car is off can drain the car’s battery, especially in parking mode. Use a hardwire kit with voltage cutoff.
• Storage Space: Off-mode recording can quickly fill up the dash cam’s memory card. Use a large-capacity memory card and consider adjusting recording settings to reduce file sizes. Loop recording is also important.
• False Alarms: Motion detection can be triggered by various things, such as passing cars, people walking by, or even changes in sunlight. This can lead to a lot of unnecessary recordings. Adjusting the sensitivity settings can help reduce false alarms.

In summary, only specific dash cams with parking mode features and a continuous power source (hardwiring, internal battery, or external battery pack) can record when the car is off.