Due to the increasing number of vehicle thefts, vandalism, and hit-and-runs, dash cams have become a popular solution for car owners looking to protect their investments. If you own a dash cam, you might ask whether to remove it when parked. This article will explore the advantages and disadvantages of leaving your dash cam installed while your vehicle is stationary and provide insights into maximizing its benefits.
Understanding Dash Cams
Dash cams are compact cameras designed to capture video footage while you drive. They serve as a reliable witness in an accident or incident. But many modern dash cams, also have a parking mode feature. This allows them to continue recording even when your car is turned off, making them effective tools for monitoring your vehicle while it’s parked.
The Pros of Keeping Your Dash Cam Installed
- Enhanced Security: Installing your dash cam when parked provides extra surveillance. The camera can capture any suspicious activities, such as potential vandalism or theft, while you’re away from your vehicle.
- Evidence Collection: If an incident occurs while your car is parked, having the dash cam in place means you’ll have video evidence to support your case. This can be invaluable when dealing with insurance claims or law enforcement.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your vehicle is being monitored can give you a sense of security. The presence of a dash cam might deter would-be criminals from targeting your vehicle.
- Parking Mode Features: Dash cams have advanced parking mode capabilities. For instance, they can activate when motion is detected, ensuring that incidents are recorded without needing to be constantly powered.
The Cons of Keeping Your Dash Cam Installed
- Battery Drain: While dash cams are designed to minimize battery drain, they still use power in parking mode. If your vehicle remains parked for an extended period, it might lead to a dead battery, especially in older vehicles.
- Potential Target for Thieves: An easily visible dash cam could attract attention and make your vehicle a target for thieves. If they see a dash cam, they might assume valuable items inside the car are worth stealing.
- Weather Elements: If your dash cam is exposed to extreme weather conditions, its functionality could be affected over time. While cameras are built to last, prolonged exposure to harsh environments can lead to wear and tear.
- Installation Concerns: If the dash cam is hardwired to your vehicle, removing it might be more complicated, which could deter some people from taking it out when parked.
Best Practices for Dash Cam Use While Parked
If you decide to keep your dash cam installed while parked, consider the following best practices to ensure it functions optimally:
- Use a Hardwiring Kit: A hardwiring kit lets you connect your dash cam directly to your vehicle’s electrical system. This provides a more stable power supply and optimizes the parking mode’s functionality.
- Set Up Low Voltage Protection: Many dash cams, including motorcycle dash cam, have low voltage protection features. This can help prevent your vehicle’s battery from draining excessively when using the dash cam.
- Position Your Camera Wisely: If you’re concerned about visibility, consider mounting your dash cam in a less conspicuous location. This can help reduce the chances of it becoming a target for thieves.
- Regular Monitoring: Check your dash cam’s recordings periodically to ensure it’s functioning correctly. This will also help you catch any incidents that may have occurred while your vehicle was parked.
- Use Motion Detection: If your dash cam has motion detection capabilities, ensure this feature is enabled. This allows the camera only to record when motion is detected, conserving battery life when the vehicle is stationary.
Alternatives: Should You Remove the Dash Cam When Parked?
While leaving your dash cam installed has many benefits, you may still consider removing it when parked. Here are a few scenarios where removing the dash cam might be advisable:
- Short Stops: Removing the dash cam may be more convenient to prevent potential theft or damage if you’re only stopping for a quick errand.
- Long-Term Parking: If you plan to leave your vehicle parked for an extended period (such as at an airport or long-term lot), removing the dash cam may help preserve your battery life and prevent exposure to the elements.
- High-Crime Areas: If your vehicle is often parked in areas known for high crime rates, removing the dash cam and storing it securely might be wise.
Secure Your Vehicle 24/7!
Ultimately, removing your dash cam while parked depends on your preferences, the local environment, and how often you use parking mode. By weighing the pros and cons and following best practices, you can make an informed choice that enhances your vehicle’s security. Protect your vehicle and enjoy the confidence of having a reliable dash cam by your side!