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This is exactly why I want a camera for when I ride. Don't want to dish out money on a GoPro, so I am thinking this cam. Any thoughts?
Go for the A129 Pro Duo. It's an updated version of the A129 and now in 4k. Really good bang for the buck.
You would want a dual dashcam which means 2 cameras, usually either front and rear or front and inside the cabin.
You'd also want some type of "parking mode" like in this example. Parking mode on many devices will usually detect either motion or movement like if someone bumps into you and then record automatically for 20-30 seconds. I'd recommend you find a dash cam with a built in battery so you don't need to connect it to your car battery.
Here's an example of what to look for: 24 Hours Parking Monitoring - Built-in 200mA battery, with G-Sensor and Motion Detection function, this dash cam will constantly protect your car in 24 hours.
Get the 3M sticky adhesive. This thing never fails. Just make sure to apply it on a surface that you clean with the rubbing alcohol pad.
Though the dashcam video could save this driver too right? That's the reason I am shopping for one but the choices are overwhelming. Is the A119 V3 still a good choice? I've seen that recommended a lot.
I am looking for the same thing. What I've found is, anything that needs to be hard wired into the ignition is the best parking mode. Thinkware has buffered parking mode, so it starts recording prior to the accident. Blackvue does the same BUT it needs a quiet time so if you live somewhere busy, it will never go into parking mode since it always sense motion. The other unbuffered parking modes starts recording After the impact detection. I've learned all this from reading reviews and research. I am about to buy the Thinkware q800 pro since it records in 2k quality AND it will notify you on your cell phone at the of an impact while in parking mode. Be advised, you get what you pay for.
as far as your other questions. Yes they all can be hard wired IF you have proper voltage step downs to 5v. What I did in my truck is hardwire two 2.1amp USB ports behind my glove box. I can plug the camera in and still have my 12v cig lighter, no wires showing and use a 6 foot regular micro usb charger from an old phone.
Can a regular mechanic install it? yes and no. They SHOULD be familiar with wiring enough to install it but I would recommend a specialist like an Audio or alarm system installer. They know best.
I heard great things about Viofo as a budget option but thickware beats its parking mode, imo.
EDIT: Link for 12v to USB device, this can be spliced into a fuse or behind the "cigarette lighter". The lighter is already fused but it's a good idea to ad another 5a fuse just in case. Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B081NCXB2M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_eUcyFbTAV2728)
I use that camera with this mount and it works really well, it just steals one of your windshield bolts. Works on Harley, I dunno if everyone uses the same bolt there.
Anyone know of a good dashcam?? Not too expensive but won't shit out on me.
EDIT: Okay I was just made aware of the recommendations sticky thread. Also seems a lot of people on Reddit like the A119 V3 so that's what I'll probably go with.
If it has a mini or micro USB connector, it's likely 5V. I used buck converters like THESE to hardwire my cameras.
Then I just use a standard USB-A to mini/micro cable, but you can also get converters like these with mini/micro USB connectors built in if that's easier.
Yes you have to get certain types of SD cards in order to get the best use.
https://www.amazon.com/YI-Nightscape-Camera-Heat-Resistant-Supercapacitor/dp/B01CW4BUPK
After having some SD Trouble I find that a UHS1 works the best. SanDisk Ultra UHS1 32GB has been great for years
Check out this cam.
The A119 V3 is hands down the best budget cam. It’s a bit more than what you want to pay but it’s worth it. Have had one for a few years now. Doesn’t require any maintenance.
The smallest most discreet cam that I know of is the Garmin Mini. I haven't used it but have seen it and it's tiny. From a good brand too.
The Samsung Pro Endurance is another one in the same class. Not sure if it's more or less than the Vantrue one.
Ugh this is also one of those situations that really makes me want to get a dashcam in case something like this ever goes down. I saw the black friday deal posted on the A129 which I've heard is good, but anyone else have other recommendations?
I can vouch for the A129 as well, but I'd actually recommend going with the updated version..the A129 Pro Duo. It's 4k, Wifi, and the newer model. GPS standard and it pairs well with the hardwire kit just like the older model. Both are good choices depending on your budget tho.
So I am looking at this Blackvue dr900 which has GPS and connected to the cloud. Would that also track my car through the blackvue app?? Cause that would be any amazing feature in case it gets stolen.
I feel like I've seen some videos on here that it definitely didn't look like the person with the dashcam stopped to give them their contact info. Honestly, it can mean the difference between 1000's of dollars if the other person lies.
For that reason, I am shopping for one but the choices are overwhelming. Is the A119 V3 still a good choice? I've seen that recommended a lot.
What kind of dashcams do police cruisers use? Cause they are in major need of an update.
I am planning on getting one myself. Is the A119 v3 still a top contender or should I look into a Garmin or something completely different?
Frankly this is why dashcams are needed. If the driver hit the cyclist, what could he say to absolve himself of any wrong doing?
Seems a lot of people on Reddit like the A119 V3 so that's what I'll probably go with.
The A129 Duo has long been a favorite in this category. It's a little higher than your budget but it's reliable, capacitor powered, and great quality over all.
If you can do without the rear cam, the A119 V3 is well below your budget and it's also one of the favorite cams on here.
Hands down the most worth it is the A119 V3. I've had mine for 3 years now and it's been through some really hot weather in uncovered parking. It keeps chugging along. I've used video from it twice already.
You just plug it into the cigarette lighter port or USB. It comes with sticky pads that you would attach the cam by your rear view mirror. Otherwise all you need is an SD card like this and you're set to go.
The A119 V3 is hands down the best budget cam. . Pretty sure it has everything you’re looking for that you listed. I’ve had one for several years and it is maintenance free.
You can get a 12V port splitter and, so long as you're not drawing too many Watts, use the cams charger off of the 12V splitter.
Something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Yantu-Cigarette-Lighter-Adapter-Splitter/dp/B07CM7PJQB/ - I am not vouching for quality or longevity of any specific product, this was just the first example I found.
The A119 i a great starter option. Regarding your questions...
No batteries, it plugs into your usb or cigarette lighter. Recording works by looping the video, meaning old footage gets deleted as new footage is recorded. Depending on the size of your sd card, you will have multiple hours of footage. You view the footage on the dashcam or on your computer. Yes you need an SD card. One of these high endurance ones are recommended.
Hope this was helpful.
I mainly have experience with this A119 V3 and can totally recommend it. I've had it since it came out 2 years ago and I've had to pull footage from it twice. Both times went great. This is compared to a cheapo dashcam that I had before that would randomly not save footage.
Not sure about the others but I'd totally buy another A119 V3 in the future. Hope this helps.
All dashcams somewhat struggle with license plates because of how reflective they are. You can improve it by getting a polarizing filter. So my recommendation would be to get the A119 V3 with the circular polarizing filter. This is a top notch cam that plugs into the cigarette lighter. Also well within your budget.
Good video. I agree they are solid cams. Did you happen to get this one with the CPL filter or this one without?
Easier to just get one of these hardwire kits and hide the cable in the liner. Easy to install.
Lottery tickets first, because then with the winnings he could buy some nice pants.
Can anyone recommend a good dashcam? Looking at this A119 if it's still a good option or should I go with something else?
This is one of those cases where having the video may save the biker's ass. What's recommended to mount on a helmet? I imagine one of these GoPro knockoffs but I am not sure if they have loop recording like dashcams.
What about the A129 pro solo cam? It's cheaper than the A129 Duo and it's 4k and has WiFi, so it's kinda best of both worlds.
I run a DuDuBell M2 10" mirror cam with front and rear 1080 recording, without GPS. I haven't measured the actual amp draw; I just noticed it was unusual that its 12VDC adapter noted 2.5A, whereas all the previous front + rear mirror cams I'd used had "2A" noted on the adapter. The difference you highlight may be related to the display -- obviously, "dual cam" setups come in a wide variety of designs (no display, small display, and large display, for starters). After installing a 3A hardwire kit, it seems the cam has enough amp "breathing room" to function reliably.
Did you test draws on large LCD mirror cams? I'm curious about the draw myself, but I don't have any plans to run it off a battery bank.
Amazon link for the lazy:
VIOFO A129 Duo 2-Channel Full HD 1080p 30fps Car Dash Camera GPS Logger https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07CT6JPYW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_b7WMBbVEFR1EZ
How do group buys work OP?
As another user posted in a thread, don't go with cheap cams because you'll have date issues and potentially failures. I'd go with the A119 V3 which is really well known around here on Reddit and the GPS module always keep the date spot on. Also, video quality is great in day and night. Just my two cents
This exactly. There are a ton on the market and some of the cheaper ones can be really delayed or inaccurate in terms of speed. I've had a A129 in my wife's car and it seems to be the most stable. The A119 V3 is similar.
That's a healthy budget for a dash cam but I think you can get something great for less. The fan favorite on reddit for single cam is the A119 V3 but they go down to like $175 if you're oaky with 1080p video quality instead of 4k.
Hope that helps.
I'd say front cams are the way to go. How does the VAVA compare to the A119 V3? The A119 is like one of the most popular cams on reddit at least.
Yeah, as you said, motorcycle cams are good options for this. Check this one out...cables seem decently long
/u/morphiussys
Yeah, the A129 is probably your best bet. Comes in a bundle with everything you need to hardwire it.
A good SD
SAMSUNG EVO Select Micro... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09B1JFY24?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
And their hardwire kit for parking mode
BlueSkySea Universal Micro USB... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B1DRZGJP?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Well the A129 Duo is on a black friday sale right now.
For a first timer like me, I'd probably just recommend a front only cam like this one. Wiring the rear cam can be a bit of a pain in the butt. It'll capture 95% of situations you need.
Dang, great video quality. Is this the Nexar cam you have or a different model?
Agreed, but some are better than others. For example, u/ttaalliia I have this camera wired up with this hardwire kit. Works like a charm.
Same. I always envision myself being able to get home faster but then I see a video like this and think at least in a car, I am more likely to get home.
Trying to figure out what sorta camera survived an accident like this. Was it a chest camera like this?
You can setup a continuously recording security system using dash cams and a person detection app that acts as a DVR. I am using Viofo A129 and A 139 dash cams that streams and record what they sees to my phone. On my phone I have running a free app I found on google app store called Birds ai view : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.unicordia.dc\_free. The app connects to my dash cam, records the stream and issues notifications when a person gets too close to the car. If you choose to it will also trigger an alarm on person detection. It works over Wifi so it does not need internet connection. The Viofo a139 and Thinkware Q800 Pro models can be added to your home wifi network so you can extend their wifi range over your parking lot as needed. In terms of sensors both Viofo and Thinkware offer almost the same image quality. Of course, different models can give you better or worst resolution. I have not tested other brands but these 2 seem to be popular/trusted and I have not been disappointed yet. In terms of video security apps the apps that come with these cameras record an event only if they detect that your car was hit based on the accelerometer or gyroscope on board. So most of the time they will not record when someone scratches your car unless they make your car move and that’s why I prefer the app im using.
I've had the A119 V3 for some time and it is very reasonably priced right now.
A cool project you have on your hands. It is easier and
cheaper to use wireless IP cameras for this. Eufy has this Eufy Outdoor cam Pro
model and there is also the Wyze V3 for 35 bucks a piece in the US. Both models
work in all weather conditions. Dash cameras are more suitable for the cooking
hot inside of a car. They are usually a lot more expensive and do not give you
the night vision you get with these IP cameras. In terms of monitor, I use an
app that can connect to 4 wireless cameras display and loop record what it sees
on my phone like a DVR. It will also detect people and notify me when someone
gets too close to my car. Or I can set it to turn on an alarm. It works without
cloud or internet connection so it should work in the work field with your
equipment. The app is called Birds ai view and i got it for free on google app
store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.unicordia.dc\_free . If
you use your old phone for monitoring you will need to connect it along with your
cameras to power. If you phone will be in the rain you should use a waterproof
enclosure for it. For power ,if you have a big battery on your tractor you
could use one of these low power disconnect kits that ensures that your tractor
battery will not be completely drain by the cameras. Another option is to just
buy a battery bank and stick it along with your phone in a waterproof box.
You can achieve that for free by using your old phone as a dash cam. There is an app that does loop recording , triggers alarms on person detection and some other "dash cam" like things without the need for internet connection. It is called Birds ai view. I got it on Google app store : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.unicordia.dc_free
For that budget, I'd probably go with the the Blackvue DR750X. It's well known and gives you LTE optionality if you want any cloud features. Dual cam too, which is nice
There are deals, but I wouldn't say they are crazy good. Usually like $10 off max. Similar to this A119 V3 deal right now, but is more than "good enough" for most people. I'd probably just hop on it if you're interested.
I am using a Viofo A129 and A 139 dash cams that streams and records what it sees to my phone. On my phone I have running an app I found on google app store called Birds ai view : https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.unicordia.dc\_free. The app connects to my dash cam, records the stream and issues notifications when a person gets too close to the car. If you choose to it will also trigger an alarm on person detection. It works over Wifi so it does not need internet connection. The Viofo a139 and some Thinkware models can be added to your home wifi network so you can extend their range as needed. In terms of sensors both Viofo and Thinkware offer almost the same image quality. Of course, different models can give you better or worts resolution. I have not tested other brands but these 2 seem to popular/trusted and I have not been disappointed yet. If you want a 4K camera Viofo has the A 229 model and Thinkware the U1000.
I am using the Viofo A 129 duo. It comes with 2 cameras having 140deg field of view that cover my front and back. For the sides I am considering adding the Thinkware Q800 Pro because I can extend its Wifi range. These two cameras connect to my phone via Wifi using an app called Birds Ai view. The app records the video stream coming from my dash cams, detects people in it and sends me notifications or turns on an alarm when someone gets too close to the car. It’s pretty cool. I got it for free on Google app store: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.unicordia.dc\_free
I'd just use a fusetap. I have two Vantop H609s set up that way in two different vehicles. Both running for more than a year without issues. And I live in Central Texas. Our summers are brutal.
But first would be to replace the cable to rule that out. I see some on Amazon for under $10.
Example fusetap: https://www.amazon.com/MicroUSB-MiniUSB-Hardwire-Adapters-Protection/dp/B072J3L2JN
Not sure if you've got a power source for USBs, but I would recommend just getting an Action Cam. Not necessarily a GoPro, but there are some $30-$40 cameras. Just put a Velcro pad where you want them and don't leave them outside to cook in the sun.
I would expect a farmer to have multiple ways to jump a battery, but I also recommend this if it helps.
Any thoughts on this? seems there selling it hard >.>
I second this question as this is on sale and I am in the market for a budget dashcam T_T
Kind of a waste, but you could get a dual dashcam and use the rear camera only. Hide the front camera in the glovebox or something. Then you just have a tiny camera with a wire going to it.
One way is to use fuse taps.
You just need to make sure you get the correct type for your fuse box.
Here's an example of a fuse tap kit from amazon.
Also, did you get fuses that are the right size? My camera recommended smaller amp fuses and I had order them.
You can get a OBD USB adapter with a switch like this one, but this will always power your camera unless your camera has a sleep function or you manually switch it off.
My Garmin Dashcam has a parking mode, which will keep the camera functioning for a set period of time through it's internal battery after the external power is cut off. Maybe yours has something similar?
I got the Viofo A129 Pro Duo because I wanted a nice dual dash cam. Super easy instal (plenty of YouTube videos), the app doesn't load the quickest, but it's very easy to use and has pretty high quality.
While you're waiting on someone more knowledgeable to reply, I just wanted to mention that I got one of the many available wireless backup cams (this one for me) to help when trailering a U-Haul to move in my daughter. The camera can be easily attached via a number of ways, a 12V plug is easily added (or came with it - I forget), and you've then got setup that can be added or removed easily. Not saying it's the best, and it doesn't work with a dashcam, but the one I has can loop-record, so it functions as an always-on rear dashcam as well. Just a possiblity for you to consider. Not beautiful, but effective.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DVF9LKG
Something budget to start out with until they feel comfortable owning one.
Capacitor for extreme hot and cold.
Suction mount for easy on and off. I personally can't stand adhesive.
https://www.amazon.com/SAMSUNG-Endurance-MicroSDXC-Adapter-security/dp/B09WB3D5GQ/
Please get them a fat SD card so you're never worried about space.
Tip: consider turned off G sensor. On my Vantrue X4, the G sensor wasn't capturing video sometimes. I turned it off and it's been smooth since. I don't find the pro G sensor arguments convincing enough.
This is the one I use and I got the optional gps speed to it. Works great and I leave it in my car in Florida. Working for over 3 years
I'm really happy with my ZenFox T3
>【3 Channel Dash Cam】 This is an ultimate triple channel dash cam, front camera record super clear scene in front of your car at 2560*1440P @30fps, interior & rear camera record the inside cabin and rear road at full HD 1080P @30fps. The 160°+140°+140° wide angle allows the camera to reduce the blind spots and capture more events. All-round video recording gives you full protection when driving on the road.
>【Super Night Vision】 All of 3 channels of the dash camera use STARVIS sensors and WDR technology to guarantee the ultimate sharpness and night image quality even in low light environments. The interior facing camera utilizes 4 IR LED lights, which can handle low light conditions and ensures flawless video footage when the passenger cabin is dark. Even in complete darkness, the dash camera can capture usable images.
>【Build-in Wi-Fi & GPS】 Supported 2.4GHz and 5GHz Wi-Fi brings faster transfer speed. You could connect the dashcam with the Zenfox app to manage settings, view on-live videos, check GPS route and download recordings to your smartphone. Built-in GPS accurately records your driving route, location, speed and time. Playback your video using the comprehensive GPS Logger software interface to see real-time information.
>【Parking Mode & G-sensor】 Parking mode will monitor events both inside and outside of your car for 24hr. The dashcam will automatically switch to parking mode after the engine is off, so it doesn’t miss any events for any time. With built-in G-sensor supporting variable sensitivity, the dashcam can auto-detect sudden shake or collision and lock the footage in an emergency to prevent that video from overwriting.
Get the right one for your car. What it'll do it tap into your fuses to pull power but there's also a voltage cutoff that'll keep your battery from dying. Mines goes from about 12.4 - 13.4 or something.
This is the one I use mainly. Been working good for 3-4 years. I got a Nexar one last year as a redundancy option for cloud storage but the one I linked works fine for majority of my uses.
I bought this when I spliced the wires to make my celllink-NEO power 2 dash cams. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B097SZ1F7W?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Makes cutting wires and removing insulation so easy. Wish I bought this years ago
I wouldn’t go for a used dash cam, you can get similar prices for new cameras within the same price range. All of those cameras in the photo aren’t worth anything, especially used.
Here’s a basic Rexing V1 camera to get you started, it features a wedge design which is very discrete. It does have a lithium ion battery instead of a super capacitor which usually goes bad within a few years but at your budget, most if not all won’t have a super capacitor.
I have a 2020 grand touring with homelink mirror. I use this for my dashcam.
SimpleUSBPort Mirror to Dashcam Adapter (10-pin Type A, Nissan/Infiniti/Mazda) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KZSBC54/ref=cm_sw_r_apanp_m8Wc1WNHbpxEx
Have tried an adapter.
USB Cigarette Lighter Adapter - iGreely USB A Male to 12V Car Cigarette Lighter Socket Female Cable Converter 1Ft/30cm https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DDKD7Y7/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_CP1TPQB2E2KDYQV53VZ4
Well I read your other comment and I'm honestly surprised you're having trouble with the card that came with the camera. It's true that they should be formatted from time to time (some cams have one month format warning you can set up for example). But if it's happening almost immediately that's very strange.
I pretty much entirely use these ones
Besides that with your cam being 1080p, if it's being this picky that's all kinds of silly. 4K cam I could understand being more picky.
I used 3M dual lock. It's a scratch so that you can remove and replace the dashcam if you want or adjust the orientation if it wasn't right the first time. It is very strong. Never had a problem. There are various shapes. I would recommend it even if you don't want to remove the dashcam.
Hey! I bought this adapter and it worked perfectly for about months. One day the cam stopped working, so I thought maybe the cables got loose from bumps and when I touched the adapter it was really hot. Unplugged the adapter and plugged in to the car lighter and it works fine now. I have the cord dangling now and have to use the slow as crap phone charger port under the arm rest.
I don’t want to buy another adapter because I’m worried it will blow again and possibly damage the cam or car.
Hope that helps. The adapter is perfect until it isn’t . Maybe I’ll roll the dice and get it again just to solve the issues I just I mentioned.
SimpleUSBPort Mirror to Dashcam... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KZSBC54?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
Your best bet will be finding 2 2-channel dashcams, I think. One for the left side of the car and one for the right side of the car.
Personally, I run Rexing in all my cars. They're not the absolute bestest of the best, but they're inexpensive and I haven't had issues with them not turning on like some other brands. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01EX8ATKK/
Amazon is selling reconditioned upgraded Rexings for $128 versus $200 new. i bought two for $80 each.
Rexing V1P Pro Dual 1080p Full HD Front and Rear 170° Wide Angle Wi-Fi Car Dash Cam with Built-in GPS Logger, Supercapacitor, 2.4" LCD Screen, G-Sensor, Loop Recording, Mobile App, Parking Monitor https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07H4B75YL/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_ZBWJTX2FCC2EVNNDG5RH?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I got this
Vantrue S1 4k Hidden Dash Cam Built in GPS Speed, Dual 1080P Front and Rear Car Camera with 24/7 Parking Mode, Sony Night Vision, Single Front 60fps, Capacitor, G-Sensor, Support 256GB Max for Trucks https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SZNL2WT/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_CEWG4H6AAMJ4CPNNMSXV
It got flitchy once in six months and the cable management was a bitch. Otherwise good quality and easy to use.
Ok never heard of the brand. Maybe try a high endurance card that is recommended? SanDisk, transcend, Samsung all have one. I use the one below but in 128GB
SanDisk 32GB High Endurance Video MicroSDHC Card with Adapter for Dash Cam and Home Monitoring Systems - C10, U3, V30, 4K UHD, Micro SD Card - SDSQQNR-032G-GN6IA https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07P14QHB7/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_i_ZV7B4WM6M4R69WMCK6JM
I have a different battery ((iVolt Mini from THINKWARE)[https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07YGVQ1V3]) with the BlackVue DR900X-2CH and it works fine.
The battery has outputs for both the red and yellow leads, and so it does properly switch the dash cam between parking and driving modes when the ignition is switched on and off. You connect everything through the battery, and the battery controller manages recharging itself and switching the dash cam (red wire) on when the car is on. The battery itself needs to only be connected to a circuit that's on when the ignition is on. It all works seamlessly.
My dashcam isn't even wired up for parking mode, and I'm not concerned about theft.
The reason I got mine, is because accidents can happen at any time without warning. Even if you're a perfect driver, you could be passing by an idiot who's looking at their phone, they slowly steer into your lane, and crash! A dashcam will be able to prove that you maintained your lane, and the other driver caused it.
I always tell anyone who's not sure about getting one, to get a cheap $20 dashcam from Walmart. That's what I started with years ago, and just recently upgraded to the A119 for about $100. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SRQH4R7
It’s a mix of both. What you’re [looking for is the A129 Duo](https://www.amazon.com/Viofo-Dashboard-Camera-Vision-G-Sensor/dp/B07CT6JPYW?dchild=1&keywords=a129+duo&qid=1622993184&sr=8-3&linkCode=ll1& tag=lfttscl-dbc-20&linkId=5e60d0d1c167bac1e3ff971d349a66e0&language=en_US], which had the front cam and the rear cam. I have this one and it’s been great for the last two years.
Age of the battery is a HUGE factor here. I just went thru this on my Colorado. The battery would barely hold a charge for more than a day w/ the A119 plugged in (hardwired). Yet with it not plugged in, it would hold for a few days. Worst part was when I had the battery checked, it showed as ok. Most likely, one of the cells in the battery is decomposing. That will cause the issues you are seeing.
If wanting to "stop" the constant power to the dash cam, you can wire in a relay (what I've always called a 87 relay). That relay would need to be set into the connection from the battery to power will only go to the dash cam when the ignition is turned to the 'on' position.
To elaborate: Conventional cards are not designed for constant writes, especially while low on free space full; this causes excessive flash wear due to their design quirk, resulting in so called “write amplification”; and yet this is precisely what happens in the dash cam. It is not unusual for a card to wear out in a matter of months.
Well designed dash cams (including Garmins) verify the flash from time to time and report when it fails. Not sure if your camera does it.
The “high endurance” sd cards, specifically advertised for use in surveillance applications are designed specifically to handle this usecase and can last years. This is one example: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07X1L86TL/
Upgraded to a 4K dashcam. They didn't change bodies/mounts/charge ports. So I just went with Rexing again since they're cheap and my 1080p cam never failed me.
Amazon 4K link they don't have the 1080p cam listed on Amazon anymore. (I don't want to come across as a brand rep I don't have any kind of relationship with Rexing.)
There are fuse adapters that you can use to hardwire dash cams. You remove a fuse from a circuit and install the adapter in it’s place. Then you plug in a fuse for the original circuit and a fuse for the new accessory. Then you use the wires on the adapter to power the accessory. Like this
In stock
VIOFO HK4 Acc Hardwire Kit, USB-C Hard Wire Kit for T130 Dash Cam, Low Voltage Protection for Parking Mode https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MRVP2PX/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_i_R5AA03W2F3727S0JDYC3?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I got a mount identical to this (mine was Apeman brand but no longer on Amazon) and it’s worked very well. Mine wasn’t out of legal concerns but because of a suction cup that fell regularly, so I don’t know if this complies.
Actually, not a dumb question. I looked into this myself when I was buying a dashcam because I have ceramic window tint on my windshield and didn't want to stick anything to it as to not damage it. They indeed make rear view mirrior mounts for a lot of cameras. Just check out Amazon (link below). That's where I found them. I can't speak on how well they work though because the cam I ended up choosing was a Nextbase cam and they use a proprietary connection to the mount and therefore I had to mount it on my windshield because that's how those mounts work. I ended up finding another solution where I could buy these static cling plastic sheets that you put on on your windshield and then you use your 3m adhesive sticky mount to mount to that. If you want to remove it, just get a finger nail under it and peel it off. Sorry to ramble on the last part though. I know that is not your issue but figured it could help someone else. Good luck!
Universal Dash Cam Mount Rear View Mirror Holder with 16 Different Joints Compatible with APEMAN, Falcon F170, Old Shark, Peztio, Rexing V1P, Roav, UGSHDI, Z-Edge and Most Car Dash Camera https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PPFT3HG/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_J1JN0Q5BS1AADHE77TKM?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
The easiest I guess would be to buy a cheapest multimeter you can find, let it record as usual, and in the morning check the battery voltage (right on battery terminals under the hood, to confirm it’s under you’ve 12.4 set) and whether the camera is still recording/powered on. If power cable plugs in to camera you can unplug it and check if there is any voltage.
There’s also a possibility that your camera power supply is working correctly but your car battery is on its last leg: then even when it is correctly discharged to 12.5 it has deteriorated enough for there to be unable to produce enough current to start the engine.
You can your battery checked at most car parts store or you can buy tester online, something like this https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08MPXGSGN
The problem is compounded with conventional flooded lead acid batteries (not sure if crv hybrid has regular one or AGM) — they are very good at providing bursts of current to start a car but don’t really like slow gradual discharge — like a dash cam or similar electronics.
After you test your car battery and in case it turns out it’s at the end of its useful life prematurely - consider replacing it with AGM battery. They are more expensive but last longer and handle slow discharge much better.
For removable mounting I've had pretty good luck with 3M's dual lock tape. It sticks to glass well enough that the dual lock disconnects before the tape pulls off the glass, and the hold is firmer than hook and loop type fasteners. And because it's clear it doesn't look as bad when whatever you mounted is detached. (I use this for my toll pay pass box, so I can pull it off and use it temporarily in rentals and borrowed cars.)
For permanent mounting I've got a roll of this 3M heavy duty double sided tape that is very strong. I recently sold a car where I'd used this to mount some dash cam components to the windshield 5 years ago and I had to pull pretty hard to get the tape off.
Dailyroads pro If you have a decent cell phone you can use that for the front Dash cam. I have been using mine for around a year, seems to work decently. I recently purchased NFC tags pasted one to my cellphone holder and programmed tasker to start Dailyroads pro recording when it reads the tag.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dailyroads.v.pro
Run a small battery backup in line from the main battery. Something that can run the dashcam for a few days before it even touches the car battery.
I use this one in my truck, and run switched power to it so that it only charges when the truck is on. I haven't had any issues with it going dead OR draining my battery. https://www.amazon.com/TalentCell-Rechargeable-12000mAh-Multi-led-indicator/dp/B00ME3ZH7C
I don’t have an Apeman but was referred to an Apeman magic arm-type mount that attached off the rear view mirror. They’re not on Amazon anymore but this looks identical.
Hmm.. Suction cup is not really reliable. And the point of the Viofo A119 is its low profile that makes it hard to see from outside. Besides, It's best to set it and forget it.
But, yeah, it exists.
Im using vava dual dash cam Dash Cam, Dual Dash Cam 2K Front and 1080P Cabin Dash Camera, 2.5K 2560x1440P@60fps Single Front, Dual Sensor, Infrared Night Vision, App Control, 24hr Parking Mode, Built-in GPS https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09JF2P1JB/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apan_glt_fabc_8FW5WV6WN389ZKFBE0TZ?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1 for front and inside recording and garmin mini https://www.garminuruguay.com.uy/products/dash-cam-mini?variant=30300098560135&currency=USD&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic for rear records
Both cams have a wifi, so you can transfer files to your phone in any accident case
Look at having the option prior to the camera.
Depending on your vehicle, there might be 2 fuse positions for your cig lighter. One is always on, the other is attaced to your acc from the ignition.
If you dont mind slight wire maintenance. (Think zip ties), try one of these, or equive cig lighter or USB adaptors.
https://www.amazon.com/Ssontong-Adapter-Hardwire-Charger-Surveillance/dp/B07RXTJK4F
this one might be what your looking for. Maybe not this specific one but something like it.
Prob a Wyze cam may be better suited for that FYI
no but the one a step up does. the a129, on black friday sale for $135