Dashcam
A dashcam is a camera system that records video from a vehicle, usually while driving. Factory-integrated systems can use the car's existing exterior cameras, location and vehicle data, controls, storage, and display; aftermarket units are separate devices.
How it works
Many systems record into a rolling buffer and overwrite old footage unless the driver or an event trigger saves a clip. Storage may be internal, on a removable memory card or USB drive, or connected to an online service. Camera coverage, audio recording, clip length, image quality, event detection, and export methods vary.
A driving dashcam is distinct from a parked-camera security mode, although the same cameras and storage may support both. Tesla, for example, documents shared USB-storage requirements and separate driving and parked functions. Tesla Owner's Manual: recording storage
What to check
Check which views are recorded, whether timestamps and vehicle data are included, how protected clips are retained, and whether recording continues after storage is full. Follow local rules for camera placement, privacy, audio, and sharing footage.
Learn more
See Dashcam technology for recording architecture, storage, evidence handling, privacy, and ownership trade-offs.