Dash cams have long since become invaluable tools for drivers, offering being a silent witness to the unpredictable scenarios that unfold on the roads and not just extravagant gadgets. However, despite the many benefits, there are common mistakes that dash cam users often make that can hinder their performance or worse, not record at all as a result.

In this article, we’ll explore these mistakes and offer insights on how to avoid them and ensure optimal performance of a dash cam.

Mistake 1: Improper installation

Installing a dash cam improperly can lead to various issues, including obstructed view (find the proper balance between how much of the dashboard, the road and the sky is visible.), loose wiring, potential problems with video recording or even damage to your car’s interior. For example, whenever routing power or video cables inside your car, make sure that the cables do not hinder the deployment of your vehicle’s airbags. Check our installation tutorials or consider professional installation (you can find an authorized BlackVue installer near you here) to ensure that your BlackVue dash cam is securely, safely and discreetly placed.

Mistake 2: Lack of regular maintenance

One of the most common mistakes users make is forgetting to maintain their dash cams. Make sure to clean your dash cam (both front and rear cameras if you are using a dual channel device) once in a while so it’s clean and dust-free. Take extra care of the lens – smudges and fingerprints on the lens can lead to blurry, distorted video image. Also, a good habit to have is to check if everything is recording properly every time you get in the car. Luckily, if you have a BlackVue dash cam, the camera will tell you when it starts recording or exits Parking Mode without you having to press any button. 

Mistake 3: Forgetting to format the SD Card

Dash cams typically record video footage onto a microSD card. Depending on the brand and model, it may be recommended to format the microSD card every so often (after backing up important files) and replace the card every 6 to 12 months. If you forget to format it regularly, it can lead to issues like storage problems and corrupted files.

With BlackVue dash cams, you don’t have to worry about regularly formatting the card thanks to BlackVue’s Adaptive Format-Free file management system. Plus, if your microSD card fails to record footage for any reason, such as natural wear and tear, a sound alert will play continuously so you can replace the card. Of course, even with these failsafes, microSD cards are considered “consumables” because they will eventually fail to write properly after going through a number of write cycles. Therefore, keeping a spare microSD card in your vehicle may be a good idea, as it will allow you to immediately swap it in case of emergency. 

Mistake 4: Not backing up important footage

We mentioned backing up important files before formatting the microSD card. Not backing up the files often enough or worse, not backing them up at all may result in losing important footage. If taking out the microSD card to back up the files to your computer is too cumbersome, you can try backing up the footage via the BlackVue app – you can save videos straight to your smartphone or send selected files to the Cloud. Some files can be uploaded to the Cloud automatically as well.

Mistake 5: Ignoring legal and privacy considerations

While, as we established, dash cams can be valuable tools for safety and security, they must be used responsibly and in accordance with local laws. Some jurisdictions have regulations regarding the use of dash cams, such as rules about data privacy and obstructing the driver’s view. Always be aware of the legal requirements in your area and ensure your BlackVue dash cam complies with them.

Avoiding these common mistakes when using your dash cam ensures that you get the most out of your BlackVue. Regular maintenance, proper installation, formatting the SD card, utilizing important features, and staying informed about legalities of using a dash cam in your area are essential steps that will help you get the most out of your dash cam. And by doing so, you can enjoy even safer drives and have reliable evidence in case you ever need it.