What is Parking Mode?
Parking Mode uses the Dash Cam’s built‑in G‑sensor to detect physical movement, such as a bump to your parked vehicle. When movement is detected, the camera ‘wakes up’, records a short video file, and then turns off again.
If your car is hit more than once, the Dash Cam will wake up and record each event separately.
Which Dash Cams does this apply to?
Parking Mode in this article applies to the following Series 1 Dash Cams:
112, 212, 212G
312G, 312GW
412GW, 512GW, 612GW
Duo HD, Mirror
380GW, 380GWX
Note: 380GW and 380GWX require an internal battery and/or a permanently live hardwired connection for Parking Mode to work correctly.
How should I set up my Dash Cam to use Parking Mode?
To use Parking Mode reliably, we recommend wiring the Dash Cam to a permanent power supply. This means the camera continues to receive power from your vehicle even when the ignition is off.
When connected to permanent power:
The Dash Cam will stay on and continue recording for around 5 minutes after the vehicle stops.
After this period, it will turn off and wait in Parking Mode, ready to wake up if the G‑sensor detects movement.
Extra tips
Check that Parking Mode is enabled in your Dash Cam’s settings before leaving the vehicle.
Review Parking Mode clips after any suspected incident to confirm that impacts have been recorded.
Troubleshooting
Parking Mode is not triggering when the car is bumped:
Confirm Parking Mode is turned on in the Dash Cam menu.
Make sure the camera has enough battery charge or is connected to permanent power.
No Parking Mode files are found after leaving the car parked:
Check that an SD card is inserted and functioning correctly
Format the SD card if you see any recording errors (after backing up important files).
If issues continue after these checks, note your Dash Cam model, how the camera is powered (12V socket or hardwire), and what you expected to see, then contact Nextbase support.