Top 5 Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Dashcam (And How to Fix Them)
You bought a dashcam to feel safer on the road — smart choice. But just owning one doesn’t guarantee it’ll save you when things go wrong. What if it wasn’t recording during an accident? What if the footage is too blurry to use? These aren’t rare horror stories — they happen all the time because of simple, avoidable mistakes. Before you trust your dashcam to protect you, let’s make sure it’s actually doing its job right.
1. Mounting It Incorrectly
Where and how you place your dashcam matters more than you might think. If it’s too high, too low, or off to the side, you might miss key details — like license plates or how the accident really happened. A poorly positioned camera can also be considered a distraction or even illegal in some countries if it blocks your view.
What to do instead:
Mount your dashcam just behind the rearview mirror — high enough to capture a wide view of the road without obstructing your line of sight. And make sure the lens is level and pointed straight ahead, not tilted toward the sky or dashboard.
2. Using the Wrong Memory Card
Not all memory cards are built for dashcams. Many people just pop in any old SD card, only to find out later that the footage is missing, corrupted, or never recorded in the first place. Dashcams constantly write and overwrite data — which can wear out low-quality cards quickly.
What to do instead:
Use a high-endurance microSD card designed specifically for dashcams or continuous video recording. These cards are built to handle frequent writing cycles and extreme temperatures, reducing the risk of failure when you need footage the most.
3. Not Checking If It’s Actually Recording
It’s easy to assume your dashcam is quietly doing its job in the background — until the day you need footage and realize it wasn’t recording at all. Power issues, full memory cards, or simple malfunctions can all lead to missing footage without any obvious warning
What to do instead:
Make it a habit to glance at your dashcam’s screen or status light every time you start driving. Many models have voice alerts or indicators for errors — don’t ignore them. Doing a quick check every few days can save you from a nasty surprise later.
4. Ignoring Firmware Updates
Just like your phone or computer, your dashcam runs on software — and manufacturers regularly release firmware updates to fix bugs, improve performance, and add new features. But many users never bother to install them, leaving their device vulnerable to glitches or reduced functionality.
What to do instead:
Check your dashcam brand’s official website or app once in a while for firmware updates. Installing them usually takes just a few minutes but can make a big difference in reliability and recording quality. Consider it basic maintenance — like checking your tire pressure or oil.
5. Forgetting to Secure Event Files
Most dashcams record in loops — meaning they continuously overwrite old footage to save space. That’s efficient, but it also means that if you don’t manually save or lock important clips right after an incident, they might be lost forever.
What to do instead:
If you’ve been in an accident or witnessed something important on the road, make it a habit to immediately lock or save the clip. Most dashcams have a button you can press, or you can use the companion app if your model supports it. Taking a few seconds to secure the file could be the difference between having the proof you need and losing it for good.
Final Thoughts: Get the Most from Your Dashcam
A dashcam can be your best road companion — but only if you use it right. Avoiding these common mistakes ensures you capture clear, reliable footage when it matters most. With proper installation, regular checks, and a bit of care, your dashcam won’t just record your drives — it’ll protect your peace of mind every time you hit the road.
So go ahead, make these simple changes today and drive with confidence knowing your dashcam has your back.
