💡 Did You Know
Parking mode on a dash cam is a feature that lets it record even when the car is turned off. Unlike normal driving modes that only record when the engine of your vehicle is turned on, this mode turns activates when the engine is turned off. This helps capture important things such as hits, bumps and incidents while the car is left parked.
When a cam is in parking mode, it uses technologies like motion detection or impacts recognition like collision to start recording. The camera typically switches between two modes, Low-Voltage parking mode or Time-Lapse mode. They can extend your battery life and only record videos in case of incidents.
It is recommended for those who want to add an extra layer of safety to their vehicle while it is parked. It makes sures that in case of any incident, you have proper evidence.
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Advantages of Dash Cam Parking Mode
A parking mode improves the security of your vehicle while it is unattended. This feature helps you capture any suspicious activity or incidents during when it is parked. Whether it is a hit-and-run, theft attempt or accident, you will have valuable evidence with this mode. It is very useful for those drivers who have to park in high-risk areas.
It also provides the peace of mind to its users. You can protect your car all the time with the dash cam which records events when you are away. By providing continuous monitoring for your vehicle, you can get a higher level of security without the need of additional devices.
Three Common Types of Parking Mode
Dash cams provide different types of parking mode to meet different security needs. The three most common types of parking modes are motion detection, impact detection and time lapse recording, each having its own limitation and advantages.
Motion Detection Parking Mode
Motion detection mode starts the recording of the camera when it detects any movement near the vehicle. When something enters the field of view of camera which can be a person or another vehicle, camera will start recording it.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✓ It saves energy as it only records when motion is detected. | X It may record false alerts from small movements like animals or trees moving in the wind. |
| ✓ It can capture video of suspicious people or objects around your car. | X It needs a clear view of the surroundings, which can be limited in certain parking spaces. |
Impact Detection Parking Mode (G-sensor Mode)
Impact Detection parking mode is also known as G-sensor mode. It activates the camera when the dash cam detects impacts like collision or bumps. This mode checks the sudden change in the state of the vehicle and sends the signal to the camera to record the event.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✓ Perfect for detecting accidents, parking lot bumps, or damage. | X The camera might not record if the impact is too minor or not strong enough to trigger the sensor. |
| ✓ Provides crucial evidence in the event of a hit-and-run or collision while your vehicle is parked. | X Some false triggers can occur in areas with heavy traffic or vibrations. |
Time-Lapse Record Parking Mode
Time lapse recording mode takes photos at set intervals (which can be every few seconds to minutes). It then combines them together to make a video. This mode reduces the power consumption of the dash cam and gives a full video of what’s happening around the vehicle.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✓ It is power-efficient and allows the dash cam to record for long periods without draining the battery. | X Limited ability to capture high-detail footage because the video is made up of intermittent images. |
| ✓ Great for monitoring longer periods of time, such as overnight or when the vehicle is parked for several hours. | X Not good for capturing fast-moving events or details of accidents. |
Dual Parking Monitoring Mode by Wolfbox
Some dash cams, like those from Wolfbox come with dual parking monitoring mode. This takes the best of both features, G-sensor mode and time-lapse mode and combine them. The camera records with time-lapse mode normally but as the impact is detected, it can switch to impact detection.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✓ Maximizes security by offering two types of recording modes. | X Slightly higher power consumption than a single-mode system. |
| ✓ Ensures both efficiency (with time-lapse) and reliability (with impact detection). | X No notable drawbacks for this feature. |
| ✓ Provides full coverage by recording events in real-time when an impact is detected. | X No notable drawbacks for this feature. |
Power Source Options for Parking Mode
Parking mode needs a constant power source to operate when the car is parked. This power source can be obtained by two main options, hardwiring and battery packs.
Hardwiring
With hardwiring, you connect your dash cam directly to the main electrical system of your vehicle, mostly to the fuse box. This gives a stable power supply to your dash cam so it can run even when the car engine is off. When it has a dedicated fuse, it can get power independent of the car’s ignition. This makes sure it can activate while it is in parking mode.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✓ It provides continuous power without draining the battery of the vehicle. | X It needs installation, which may require professional help. |
| ✓ No need for recharging or changing batteries. | X It can drain the battery of the vehicle if it’s not configured properly. |
| ✓ It is good for long-term parking mode use. | X No notable drawbacks for this feature. |
| ✓ It works with advanced features like motion detection and impact detection. | X No notable drawbacks for this feature. |
For users that want convenience and reliability, Wolfbox has an amazing Multifunctional Hardwire Kit. This kit allows safe and efficient power management by offering a smooth connection to your vehicle’s fuse box. It comes with a low voltage cutoff feature which turn the camera off when the battery level reaches the low level. You can find more here .
Battery Pack
A Battery Pack gives a separate power supply to your dash cam which is independent of your car’s electrical system. This battery is charged by your engine when it is running and powers the dash cam when the engine is off. With this option, one can choose not to alter the electrical system in their vehicle.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✓ It is easy to install and doesn’t need any modifications to the vehicle. | X It has limited power and must be recharged regularly. |
| ✓ It is portable and can be used in different cars. | X It may not last as long as hardwiring. |
| ✓ It does not take power from the main battery of the vehicle. | X It needs constant monitoring to ensure it is charged and ready for use. |
How to Turn On Parking Mode?
Turning on the parking mode in dash cam is a very easy process. However, it might need some preparations. You will have to install a hardwire kit to turn on the camera when your vehicle is parked. Without the supply, your camera will not be able to record in parking mode.
1. Install the Hardwire Kit
Start by installing the hardwire kit into your vehicle. The installation can be done by
- Connect the Yellow Wire to a fuse with Constant Power (B+).
- Connect the Red Wire to the ACC Fuse (Only gets power when vehicle is on).
- Ground the Black Wire.
2. Enable Parking Mode in the Dash Cam Menu
Now that the hardwire kit is installed, you can turn on the parking mode from the settings.
- Turn on the dash cam and navigate to the menu.
- Look for an option named “Parking Monitoring Mode” and enable it.
- Select one of the two options that suits your needs.
- Collision Boot Recording: It is the impact detection mode and activates the dash cam in case of collisions or impacts.
- Time-Lapse Recording: This mode records by taking images after the set intervals of time.
3. Verify Proper Functioning
Once the parking mode is enabled, perform tests to make sure it works. Park your vehicle and turn off the engine to see if dash cam switched to parking mode. If it was installed correctly, it must start recording in the selected parking recording mode.
3 Best Dash Cams with Parking Mode
If you want best dash cams that has reliable parking mode features, it is important to select a model that has high-quality recording, efficient power usage and advanced features.
1. Wolfbox G900 Pro
The Wolfbox G900 pro is a high-level dash cam. It has a high resolution 4K camera that records clear videos during the day and night. It also has a parking monitoring mode which turns on when your vehicle is parked. This model has a perfect balance of security and efficiency because of its impact detection and time-lapse options.
Key Features:
- 4K front camera for high-definition recording.
- Dual parking mode (impact detection and time-lapse).
- 2.5K rear camera for clear rear footage.
- Built-in GPS for tracking location and speed.
2. Wolfbox G900 4K Dash Cam
Wolfbox G900 Dash cam has the same features that a G900 pro has, but it is more cost-effective. It also records videos in 4k resolution from the camera and comes with dual parking mode that contains impact detection and time-lapse recording. It is a good option for those who want a high-performance camera at budget-friendly prices.
Key Features:
- 4K ultra-high-definition front camera.
- Parking mode with motion detection and impact recording.
- 2.5K rear camera for full coverage.
- Wide 170-degree angle for expansive footage.
3. Wolfbox G850 Pro 4K Dash Cam
Wolfbox G850 pro is high quality dash cam that has a 4k resolution front camera and 1080p rare camera. One of the most unique features of this camera is its Wi-Fi connectivity. It provides dual channel recording and parking mode that makes it a good option for those who want both rear and front monitoring.
Key Features:
- 4K front camera and 1080p rear camera.
- Built-in Wi-Fi for easy video transfer to your phone.
- Parking mode with impact detection.
- Loop recording and GPS tracking.
Read More: Best Dash Cams with Night Vision
FAQs
1. What is parking mode on a dash cam?
Parking mode is a feature that lets a dash cam to continue recording even when the car is parked or turned off. It activates when motion or an impact is detected near the vehicle.
2. How does parking mode work on a dash cam?
When the engine is off, parking mode uses either motion detection or impact sensors (G-sensor) to start recording. Some models also have time-lapse recording mode to save power.
3. Do I need a hardwire kit for parking mode?
Yes, most dash cams require a hardwire kit to enable parking mode. The kit connects the camera to the electrical system of your vehicle, so it stays powered when the engine is off.
4. Can I use parking mode with a battery pack instead of hardwiring?
Yes, a battery pack is an alternative power source. It is charged when the car is running and powers the dash cam when the engine is off.
5. How long can a dash cam record in parking mode?
The duration depends on the power source. With a hardwiring kit, the dash cam can record as long as necessary without draining the main battery of your vehicle. With a battery pack, recording time is restricted by the battery capacity.
6. What happens if my car’s battery drains while using parking mode?
Most hardwiring kits come with a low-voltage cut-off feature. This stops the dash cam from getting the power from the main battery of your vehicle. With this feature the battery is not drained to the point that it can no longer start the engine.
7. Does parking mode record continuously?
Parking mode does not record continuously. It starts recording only when motion or impact is detected and saves power. Some dash cams offer time-lapse mode which records at set intervals for long-term monitoring.
8. Can parking mode be disabled?
Yes, you can disable parking mode via the dash cam’s settings menu. Simply navigate to the parking mode option and turn it off if you don't need it activated.
