Dash cams can draw anywhere from 0.5A to 3A, depending on the model. For most dash cams, a 2A charger should be more than sufficient.
Can A Dash Cam Drain A Car Battery?
While a dash cam can draw too much power from your car battery, thus leading to a dead battery, this is highly unlikely unless you leave your camera on constantly or forget to turn it off and it continues to record while your car is off.
If you are worried about your camera’s power usage, consider mounting it near an always-on source of power, such as the cigarette lighter outlet.
If you have had your dash cam for a while and notice that your car battery has been draining more quickly than usual, it may be time to replace the battery.
Anecdotally, some users have experienced issues with their dash cams buzzing or feeling warm when they hibernate, which could also contribute to faster battery drainage.
Read more: Can A Dash Cam Be Powered By USB?
Will Hardwiring My Dash Cam Drain My Battery?
It’s possible that hardwiring your dash cam could drain your battery, but there are a few things you can do to prevent this from happening.
For example, you could install a fuse between the power and ground wires to protect your circuit from shorts, or you could use a voltage reducer to keep the power draw low.
Another thing to consider is where you mount your dash cam.
If it’s in a spot where it gets a lot of direct sunlight, it will generate more heat and put more strain on your battery. So try to choose a location that’s well-ventilated and shaded if possible.
How Much Power Does A Car Camera Use?
A car camera typically uses about 2.5W of power.
The power consumption of a car camera is relatively low, and should not have a significant impact on your vehicle’s overall battery life.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that other devices in your car may also be drawing power from the battery, so it’s always a good idea to check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to get a better idea of how much power each device consumes.