With the increased need for safety and evidence provision in case of accident or vandalism comes the desire to add dashcams to our cars. Even though this sounds great, it’s not always ideal for dash cams to be in use in very harsh weather over a long time. 

While other outdoor gadgets can withstand extreme weather,  most dash cams cannot. From the intense heat of summer to the bitter cold of winter, understanding how to protect your dash cam from extreme weather is key to ensuring it remains a reliable companion on your journeys.

With that being said, below are key things to know, in order to protect your dashcam. 

Understand Temperature Tolerance

Before we dive into protective measures, let's answer this question from Ahmed in Dubai: 

“Hi, I have been using my dashcam for a while now(it's always left inside the car). Whenever I switch off my car, I take it out, especially during hot weather. It's getting tiring, I'm thinking of leaving it in the car(sometimes I go long hours without using my car, but the dash cam remains on), is it safe?”

Thanks for your question Ahmed, the short answer is No. You should not leave a functioning driving recorder inside a hot car for hours without air or cooling. 

It's important to understand the temperature range within which your dashcam operates best. Most high quality dash cams are designed to function within a range of -20°C to 70°C (-4°F to 158°F), such as HainaTech D88. However, it’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s specifications for your specific model.

Preventative Measures 

1. Select a Suitable Installation Spot

• Avoid Direct Sunlight: The area behind the rearview mirror(at the upper center)or on the passenger side of the windshield can be ideal. Avoid mounting it lower to capture scenes, the sun is usually direct when it's lower. 
• Consider Heat Reflection: If your car’s interior is predominantly dark, it can absorb more heat. A small amount of window tint can also help. Just around the area where the driving recorder is mounted. 

2. Improve Ventilation

• Air Circulation: Ensure that air can circulate freely around the dash cam. Like Ahmed above, don't leave the dashcam on for long hours when the car is off. If you park in a sunny environment, consider checking the car temperature after long hours to make sure the dashcam isn't overheating. 
• Avoid Direct Vent Blasts: Keep the dash cam away from air vents, as direct blasts of hot or cold air can cause thermal shock. As we said earlier, the rearview mirror is always a safe spot. Avoid putting on the wind button option of your AC or heater, it is usually directed to the rearview mirror where dashcams are mounted. 

3. Choose Quality Components

• Heat-Resistant Adhesives: Use high-quality adhesives rated for extreme temperatures to secure your dashcam. Heat-resistant adhesives can create a very strong dependable bond between the dashcam and the mounted surface. 
• Temperature-Resistant Wires: Apart from the durability and melting of wires, temperature-resistant wires also avoid the distribution of heat into your dash cam. Opt for wiring harnesses and cables that are designed to handle fluctuations in temperature without degrading.

4. Invest in Thermal Protection Features

• Built-in Overheat Protection: Some dash cams come with built-in features like capacitors instead of batteries, which are more stable in extreme temperatures. Look for models that include automatic shutdowns when temperatures reach harmful levels. Built-in overheat temperature sensors for driving cams can make them stop recording when the weather is extreme. 
• Parking Mode with Temperature Sensors: Due to how far the temperature rises in parked cars, most dashcam manufacturers now offer more features. Advanced ones offer parking mode features that include temperature monitoring. These can alert you or shut down the device if the temperature gets too high or too low.

Maintenance and Monitoring

According to Community Oriented Policing Services in the U.S. Department of Justice, proper maintenance and best practices when using in-car cameras improved modern policing. 

Properly maintaining your dash cam will not only ensure its durability but also increase better recording without glitches nor disruptions.Modern dashcams are now equipped with sophisticated features to enhance recording. However, this comes with a price-there is a need to monitor and maintain it. 

Periodically inspect your dash cam for any signs of wear, loose connections, or overheating. Keeping the camera clean and the lens free from dust can improve its efficiency.

Conclusion

Remember, prevention is better than cure, and a little effort in maintaining your dashcam can go a long way in preserving its functionality and extending its lifespan. 

When it comes to high-quality dashcams, maintenance, and troubleshooting tips on driving recorders, go to Haina-tech.com to learn more.