Should I format my SD card?
Yes, you should format regularly using your Dash Cam's setup menu. For most users, do this every 2-3 weeks.
You can also format your SD card using the MyNextbase Connect App by navigating to the settings section and selecting the format option.
Heavy drivers (taxi or delivery) should format weekly to handle the extra stress from constant loop recording.
What does formatting do?
Formatting deletes all files from the SD card at once, clearing space and optimising the file system. Dash Cams continuously overwrite old footage, stressing the card far more than regular cameras do. It allows a Nextbase high-endurance card to last the lifespan we would expect of 2 years.
Additionally, loop recording ensures continuous recording by overwriting the oldest non-protected files when the SD card is full. Protected files, such as saved incident footage, are not overwritten and can accumulate over time, potentially preventing new footage from being saved.
Why format regularly?
Loop recording causes heavy wear through endless write/overwrite cycles. Without formatting, non-specialised cards fail quickly. Even Nextbase high-endurance cards benefit from regular maintenance.
Protected files that are not overwritten during loop recording can accumulate, reducing available storage space for new recordings. Regular formatting helps manage these files effectively.
What happens if I skip formatting?
Common issues include:
SD card error messages
Recording failures (manual or automatic)
Device freezing
Gaps in footage
Corrupted/unplayable files
Startup/shutdown problems
Unresponsive buttons
How to format
Open Setup menu on your Dash Cam
Select Format SD card or Erase SD Card (depending on model)
Confirm
For model-specific steps, download your user manual from the Nextbase support section.
Extra tips
Always download important footage first
Use 32GB+ Nextbase high-endurance cards
Format new cards in the Dash Cam before first use
Regularly format the SD card to clear protected files and maintain sufficient storage for new recordings.
SD Card Replacement Guidelines
SD cards experience wear and tear due to constant overwrite cycles. To ensure reliability, plan to replace your SD card approximately every 18 months to 2 years. This timeline may vary depending on usage patterns and recording frequency. Replacing the SD card at regular intervals helps avoid potential recording failures.
Troubleshooting
If you get an SD card, format immediately; replace if the issue persists
If the SD Card will not format using the camera, remove the SD card, format on PC, reinsert into the camera