Why does my dash cam keep saying 'SD card error'?

SD card errors are often caused by incompatible card types, corruption, or wear. Dash cams typically require high endurance microSD cards (like those rated for continuous recording). Try formatting the card in the dash cam using its menu option. If the error persists, replace the card with a new one from a reputable brand. Avoid using cards that are too large (over 128GB) unless your dash cam specifically supports them.

Can a dash cam stop recording due to heat?

Yes, overheating is a common issue, especially in hot climates or when the dash cam is exposed to direct sunlight. Many dash cams have thermal protection that shuts off recording if internal temperatures exceed safe limits. To prevent this, use a capacitor-based dash cam (instead of battery), park in shaded areas, or use a sunshade. If your dash cam is overheating, let it cool down before restarting.

How do I check if my dash cam is actually recording?

Most dash cams have a recording indicator: a blinking red or green LED light, or an icon on the screen. Some models also emit a beep when recording starts. If you see no indicator, check the settings to ensure loop recording is enabled and the SD card is inserted correctly. You can also review recent footage on the camera or by inserting the card into a computer.

What should I do if my dash cam turns off by itself?

Automatic shutdown can be caused by overheating, power issues, or faulty wiring. First, check if the dash cam feels hot; if so, let it cool down. Next, inspect the power cable and adapter for loose connections or damage. If you have a hardwire kit, test the voltage at the fuse box. Some dash cams also have a low voltage cutoff that shuts off to protect the car battery; adjust this setting if available.

Why is my dash cam recording in short clips or not overwriting old files?

This usually points to a loop recording setting that is off or a full SD card that is not being overwritten. Ensure loop recording is enabled in the menu. If the card is full and loop recording is on, the camera should overwrite the oldest files. If it doesn't, the card may be write-protected or corrupted. Format the card in the camera to reset the file system.

Dash Cam Not Recording? Common Fixes and Troubleshooting

Published July 19, 2026 · Reviewed by the Unbiased Advice & Insights editorial team · How we research and score

Quick answer

Most recording failures are caused by an incompatible or corrupted SD card. Format or replace the card first. If that doesn't work, check power connections and try a different USB cable or adapter.

Why Dash Cams Stop Recording

Dash cams are reliable tools, but they can stop recording for several common reasons. Understanding these causes helps you fix the issue quickly and avoid missing important footage. Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback and key decision factors to compile this troubleshooting guide.

The most frequent culprits include SD card problems (incompatibility, corruption, or wear), power interruptions (loose cables, faulty adapters, or dead batteries in hardwire kits), overheating (especially in summer or with direct sun exposure), and settings errors (like loop recording disabled or motion detection misconfigured). Less common but possible are firmware glitches or hardware failures.

SD card issues are by far the most common. Many dash cams require high endurance cards that can handle constant rewriting. Standard cards may fail after a few months. Also, cards over 128GB often need exFAT formatting, which some older cameras do not support. Power problems can be tricky: a loose connection in the cigarette lighter adapter or a damaged USB cable can cause intermittent recording. Overheating is more prevalent in capacitor-based models than battery ones, but both can shut down if internal temperatures exceed 140 degrees Fahrenheit. Settings errors often occur after a firmware update or if someone else adjusted the menu. For example, turning off loop recording will cause the camera to stop when the card is full.

How to Fix a Dash Cam That Is Not Recording

Follow these steps in order. Test after each step to see if recording resumes.

Check the SD card. Remove the card and inspect it for physical damage. Insert it into a computer and run a disk check or format it as FAT32 or exFAT (check your dash cam manual). Then reinsert it into the dash cam and format it using the camera's menu. If the card is older than 1-2 years or shows errors, replace it with a high endurance card from a reputable brand like SanDisk or Samsung. Avoid no-name cards as they often fail quickly.
Verify power connections. Make sure the USB cable is firmly connected to both the dash cam and the power source (cigarette lighter or hardwire kit). Try a different cable and adapter. If using a hardwire kit, check the fuse and voltage with a multimeter. Some dash cams require a specific amperage (often 1.5A or 2A) so use the original adapter. A weak power source can cause the camera to reboot or not record.
Allow the dash cam to cool down. If the device feels hot, turn it off and let it cool for 30 minutes. Overheating can cause automatic shutdown. To prevent recurrence, use a capacitor-based model, avoid parking in direct sun, and consider a reflective sunshade. Some users mount the camera lower on the windshield to reduce sun exposure.
Review and reset settings. Go into the dash cam menu and ensure loop recording is ON. Check that the recording resolution is set to a supported mode (e.g., 1080p instead of 4K if the card is slow). If motion detection or parking mode is enabled, try disabling them to see if normal recording resumes. Perform a factory reset if needed, but note that this will erase all settings.
Update firmware. Visit the manufacturer's website to see if a firmware update is available. Follow their instructions to install it. This can fix bugs that cause recording failures. Be sure to use a freshly formatted SD card for the update and follow the steps exactly to avoid bricking the device.
Test with a different power source. Try powering the dash cam from a USB port on a computer or a different vehicle. If it works there, the issue is likely with your vehicle's power outlet or wiring. Some cars have USB ports that provide insufficient power; use the cigarette lighter adapter instead.
Check for physical damage. Inspect the lens for cracks or fogging. Look at the casing for signs of water damage or warping from heat. If the camera has a battery, check if it is swollen. Any physical damage likely means the camera needs replacement.

Advanced Troubleshooting for Persistent Issues

If the basic steps do not resolve the problem, try these advanced techniques. Some dash cams have hidden diagnostic menus accessible by pressing certain button combinations during startup. Check your manual or online forums for your specific model. You can also try using a different SD card brand or class. For example, some cameras work better with Samsung EVO Select than SanDisk Ultra. If your dash cam has a reset hole, use a paperclip to press the reset button while the camera is powered on. This can clear temporary glitches. Another option is to test the camera in a different vehicle to rule out car-specific electrical issues like voltage spikes from the alternator.

If the camera records intermittently, the problem might be a loose internal connection. Gently tap the camera while recording to see if the LED flickers. If it does, the camera may have a manufacturing defect. Contact customer support for warranty replacement. Some brands like VIOFO and Thinkware have responsive support, while others may not. Check the warranty period; many dash cams have a 1-year warranty, but some offer longer.

When to Replace Your Dash Cam

If you have tried all the above steps and the dash cam still does not record, it may be time to replace it. Signs of hardware failure include persistent error messages, physical damage (cracked lens, swollen battery), or the device not powering on at all. Consider upgrading to a newer model with better heat tolerance, a supercapacitor instead of a battery, and support for larger SD cards. Check the current price on Amazon for reliable options from brands like VIOFO, Garmin, or Thinkware.

Remember that even the best dash cams have limitations. No device is perfect, and some may have quirks like finicky SD card slots or less intuitive menus. Reading recent buyer feedback can help you choose a model that minimizes these issues. Also, consider features like GPS, parking mode, and dual channels if you want more functionality. But for basic recording reliability, focus on models with good heat management and high endurance card support.

More guides

See our full buying guides hub and our research and scoring methodology. We compared specifications and verified owner feedback; we did not physically test every product.