As a dash cam owner, you understand the importance of having reliable video evidence in case of an accident or incident on the road.
However, one of the most frustrating problems is when your dash cam keeps resetting its date and time settings.
An accurate date and internal clock are essential for dash cam footage to be useful as evidence. Timestamps allow law enforcement and insurance companies to verify when an event occurred.
They also help to identify drivers and vehicles involved. If the date is incorrect, it can undermine the credibility of any footage.
Maintaining the proper date and time usually isn't much of a concern since most dash cams are designed to run automatically.
But issues do sometimes arise that cause the internal clock to reset. When this happens, it means your dash cam will no longer reliably record events with accurate timestamping.
In this guide, we will explore some of the common reasons why dash cams may reset their date and time settings.
We'll provide tips on troubleshooting the problem and preventing reoccurrence.
Our goal is to help you keep your dash cam functioning at its best, so you always have dependable video proof should you need it. Let's start by learning about what could be behind the date resets on your dash cam.
4 Common Reasons Why Dash Cam Resets Date
Most dash cams use a small internal power source, such as a battery or capacitor, to maintain the built-in calendar/clock even when the device isn't plugged in.
Over time, this power source can become drained if certain conditions are met. When it runs out of charge completely, the dash cam loses track of the date.
The good news is there are steps you can take to circumvent these issues and keep your dash cam's date accurate.
Ensuring the device remains plugged in continuously when parked and replacing worn internal components can help prevent unexpected date resets.
In this section, we will explore some of the most common reasons why dash cams reset the date and what you can do to fix the issue.
1. Battery or Capacitor Failure
When not connected to power, dash cams typically rely on an internal battery or capacitor to maintain the time and date. Over time, batteries degrade and lose their charge, forcing resets.
To prevent this, replace the battery or get a dash cam with a capacitor instead. Capacitors last longer than batteries and maintain settings better.
Also read: How Long Do Dash Cam Batteries Last?
2. Outdated Firmware
Bugs or issues with outdated firmware can also trigger faulty behavior like date resets.
Ensure your dash cam has the latest version installed by checking the manufacturer's support site for updates. Updating to the most current firmware can fix software-related glitches.
3. GPS Malfunctions
For dash cams with GPS, a faulty or out-of-date GPS module may be unable to properly sync the date.
If equipped with GPS, verify it is receiving signals as expected or consider disabling GPS in settings if that feature isn't needed.
4. Incorrect Time Zone Setting
If the dash cam's internal time zone is set incorrectly, it won't log the proper date based on your location.
Double-check that the time zone matches where the vehicle is primarily used. Resetting to the right zone alleviates improperly logged date issues.
Addressing any of these common device-related problems can help resolve date resets on your dash cam system. Taking time to troubleshoot the underlying cause is worthwhile.
In-Depth Look at Dash Cam Settings
When it comes to dash cams, understanding the settings is crucial to ensuring your device works properly.
In this section, you'll learn about two important settings: the date and time setting and the loop recording setting.
Date and Time Setting
If your dash cam keeps resetting the date, it could be due to a faulty RTC (Real Time Clock) or lithium-ion battery.
To troubleshoot this issue, try recharging the battery for an extended period of time, several hours at least.
If this does not work, you may need to replace the battery or contact the manufacturer for further assistance.
Loop Recording Setting
With loop recording, the device will automatically overwrite the oldest footage when the storage space is full, ensuring you always have the most recent footage available.
If your dash cam is not recording or is only recording short clips, it may be due to a problem with the loop recording setting.
Check the settings menu to ensure that loop recording is enabled and the recording time is set to a suitable length.
If you are still experiencing issues, try formatting the SD card or replacing it with a new one.
Troubleshooting Guide for Dash Cam Date Reset
If your dash cam keeps resetting the date, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot the issue.
Here are some steps you can take to fix the problem:
Step 1: Battery Replacement
Open the dash cam and check if the internal battery is swollen or damaged. Replace if needed. Use a quality battery matched to your device's power needs.
Step 2: Firmware Update
Access the manufacturer's support site to download the latest firmware version. Update using a computer if specified in the instructions. Restart the dash cam to check for improvements.
Step 3: SD Card Inspection
Ensure the SD card is undamaged, not full, and properly inserted into the dash cam with the labeled side up. Format the card to clear any corrupted data using the device's settings menu.
Step 4: RTC Battery Check
Refer to the manual to locate and check the Real-Time Clock (RTC) battery. This separate battery powers the internal clock circuitry and may need replacing if more than 2 years old.
Step 5: Component Inspection
Visually check all wires, ports and internal parts for signs of damage, corrosion or loose connections that could disrupt power/data pathways.
Step 6: Settings Validation
Verify the time zone, date/time format and any other key settings match your region. Reset as needed.
Step 7: Voltage Monitoring
Use a multimeter to check whether the voltage output of both the main battery and RTC battery match or exceeds specifications.
Step 8: Manufacturer Support
Call/email support with your dash cam model info for further troubleshooting if the issue persists. Warranty work or component replacement may be needed.
Taking a methodical testing approach can help identify the root cause. Replace faulty parts before the problem reoccurs.
Also read: Should I Unplug My Dash Cam At Night?
Reaching Out for Support
If troubleshooting steps did not resolve the date reset issue, your next step is to contact the seller or manufacturer for further assistance.
Check the Warranty
Review your dash cam's documentation to determine the warranty coverage period and terms. Warrantied devices may be repaired or replaced at no cost.
Contact the Seller
If purchased through a third party, contact them first via the source used (Amazon, eBay, etc.). Provide purchase details and issue description. Many sellers offer returns for faulty items.
Contact the Manufacturer
Check the manufacturer's website or user manual for customer support information. Email or call, referencing the serial number and clear description of the problem.
Most manufacturers have repair centers or will replace defective units under warranty.
When Providing Details
Be prepared to share:
- Dash cam model number
- Date of purchase and retailer
- Firmware version
- Troubleshooting steps attempted
- Clear pictures/videos demonstrating the issue
Manufacturers usually ask for these to properly assess warranty qualification and suggest repairs. They aim to resolve problems to maintain customer satisfaction.
As a last resort, an out-of-warranty repair or replacement fee may apply if the defect is determined to be due to external damage or natural wear over time. Confirm repair costs upfront to avoid surprises.
Preventing Future Issues
Extended Parking Mode
Look for a dash cam with a built-in supercapacitor or hardwire kit, allowing it to continuously record when parked without draining the battery. This prevents date resets during long-term parking.
Opt for Capacitor Models
Dash cams using supercapacitors instead of batteries maintain settings much longer. Capacitors withstand heat and weather extremes better than batteries too.
Routine Maintenance
Complete firmware updates and check internal components every 6 months. Replace batteries annually to keep your dash cam running smoothly long-term.
When to Upgrade
Signs of Aging
If a dash cam is more than 3 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. Older models often have failing batteries and performance issues troubleshooting can't resolve.
New Features
Updating provides access to the latest file formats, improved image quality, and handy features like GPS and parking mode. Consider upgrading every 3-5 years.
Cloud Backup Services
Automatic Sync
Opt for a dash cam with built-in WiFi for automatic syncing to cloud services. This safely stores footage off the device.
Geofencing Capabilities
Look for services that can tag and organize footage by location using GPS coordinates embedded in videos.
2-Way Backups
The most robust services are simultaneously backup footage to the cloud and an SD card for redundancy.
Keeping Your Dash Cam Running Reliably
We've covered a lot of information regarding date resets on dash cams and how to address this problematic issue. The key things to take away are:
- Be proactive in maintenance to prevent problems like firmware updates, battery replacements and settings checks.
- Know the most common causes so you can troubleshoot efficiently - pay attention to internal batteries, SD cards and outdated software.
- Take a systematic approach when diagnosing - start with simple steps before assuming parts need replacement.
- Contact your manufacturer for support and warranty coverage once all troubleshooting steps are exhausted.
- Choose durable models with features that enhance reliability long-term, like supercapacitors and parking modes.
With the right dash cam and some routine care, you can feel empowered knowing your recording system will be ready to clearly document any incidents down the road.
We hope this guide has equipped you to keep your dash cam running.
For more dash cam issues and remedies, read:
Why Is My Nextbase Dash Cam Beeping?
Dash Cam Keeps Falling? – Why & How To Fix It?