If you’ve ever returned to your car and discovered a mysterious dent, scratch, or worse, found it missing entirely, you’ve probably wondered whether dashcams record while parked. It’s a valid question, especially as more Australian drivers invest in dashcams for safety and security.
The simple answer is yes many dashcams are capable of recording even when your vehicle is parked. However, this function depends on having the right model, setup, and power connection. Modern dashcams often feature a “parking mode,” which activates automatically when the engine is off. They use motion detection or impact sensors to capture any activity around your car, ensuring incidents like vandalism or hit-and-runs are recorded. With continuous protection, a properly installed dashcam offers invaluable peace of mind, safeguarding your vehicle around the clock.
Understanding Dashcam Parking Mode
Most modern dashcams come equipped with a feature called Parking Mode a smart function that allows your car security camera to continue monitoring even when the ignition is off.
How Parking Mode Works
When your car is turned off, the dashcam switches to a low-power state. It won’t record continuously like it does when driving but will activate when it detects motion or impact around your vehicle. This ensures you capture crucial footage without draining your car battery.
There are typically two main types of parking mode:
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Motion Detection:
The dashcam “wakes up” when it senses movement near the car for example, someone walking past or opening a door too close.-
Ideal for drivers who park in busy public spaces or city streets.
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Saves storage and battery by recording only when needed.
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Impact Detection (G Sensor):
This mode kicks in when your car experiences a jolt like a bump, hit and run, or attempted break-in.-
Footage starts recording seconds before and after the impact.
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Perfect for catching vandals or careless drivers in car parks.
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Some high end models combine both for maximum protection, ensuring no suspicious activity goes unrecorded.
Do Dashcams Record Continuously When Parked?
Not all dashcams record continuously in Parking Mode. Continuous recording dashcams require a constant power source either through hardwiring or a dedicated battery pack.
Stay protected on every drive with this Dual Lens Full HD 1080P Dash Cam, designed to capture crystal-clear footage day or night. Its dual camera setup records both the road ahead and inside your vehicle, perfect for rideshare drivers, commuters, and families.
Option 1: Hardwired Dashcams
Hardwiring connects your dashcam directly to your car’s fuse box, giving it power even when the engine is off.
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Great for long-term parking (e.g., at work or airports).
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Usually includes low voltage protection so your car battery doesn’t drain.
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Professional installation is recommended.
Option 2: External Battery Packs
If you prefer a plug and play solution, an external dashcam battery pack can power your camera while parked without relying on your car’s battery.
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Easy to charge while driving.
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Ideal for people who frequently park overnight or outdoors.
Tip: If you want your dashcam to record continuously while parked, ensure it supports parking mode and invest in a hardwire kit or battery pack designed for Australian conditions.
Why You Should Have a Dashcam That Records When Parked
1. Protection from Hit-and-Runs
A parked dashcam captures video evidence if another driver hits your vehicle and drives off. That footage can help with insurance claims or identifying the culprit.
2. Theft and Vandalism Deterrent
Visible dashcams act as a car theft deterrent, discouraging would be vandals or thieves. Even if damage occurs, you’ll have crucial video evidence for police or insurance.
3. Peace of Mind for Families and Commuters
Whether you park at the station, school, or construction site, knowing your dashcam is still watching gives you confidence your vehicle is safe when you’re not around.
4. Insurance and Legal Benefits
Having footage from dashcam parking mode can speed up insurance disputes and help prove your case if damage occurs while you’re away.
Choosing the Right Dashcam for Parking Surveillance
When shopping for the best dashcam features for parking protection, look out for these essentials:
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Parking Mode Support : Motion and impact detection recording.
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Hardwire Kit or Battery Compatibility : Keeps your camera powered when the car’s off.
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Loop Recording & Storage Management: Automatically overwrites old footage to free space.
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High-Resolution Video (1080p or 4K) : Ensures clear details like number plates.
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Wide-Angle Lens (140°–170°): Covers more of your vehicle’s surroundings.
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Night Vision : Vital for dim car parks or street parking overnight.
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Temperature Resistance : Important for Australian summers and outdoor storage.
Explore models like the OfficeCatch Dashcam Collection designed to withstand Aussie conditions while offering reliable 24/7 protection.
Setting Up Parking Mode: What You’ll Need
Here’s a quick checklist for getting your dashcam to record when parked:
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A Dashcam with Parking Mode.
Confirm your model supports motion or impact detection. -
Power Supply Option.
Choose between hardwiring or a battery pack for continuous operation. -
Proper Installation.
Secure your camera’s view of the front (and rear, if applicable). Avoid windshield obstructions. -
Storage Management.
Use a high-endurance microSD card (64GB+ recommended). These cards are built for continuous writing and rewrites. -
Test Before You Rely On It.
Simulate motion or impact to make sure your dashcam activates correctly while parked.
Common Myths About Dashcams and Parking Mode
“Parking mode drains my car battery.”
With a quality hardwire kit featuring low voltage cut off, your dashcam will automatically shut down before draining your battery.
“All dashcams record when the car’s off.”
Not true only models with dedicated parking mode and power solutions can do this.
“I don’t need parking mode; my area is safe.”
Even in quiet suburbs, accidental bumps and door dings happen daily. A parking mode dashcam gives you proof when you’re not around to witness it.
The Bottom Line: Protect Your Car 24/7
So, do dashcams record when parked?
Yes , but only if your camera supports parking mode and has the right power setup. Whether through motion detection, impact recording, or continuous monitoring, a car security camera in Australia can keep your vehicle protected even when you’re away.
With vandalism, hit-and-runs, and carpark mishaps becoming more common, having the best dashcam features for parked recording is a smart investment in safety and peace of mind.
Protect your car 24/7 shop OfficeCatch’s range of dashcams today and get reliable recording even when your car is parked.