Struggling to get your Rexing dash cam to record? You’re definitely not alone! It’s super frustrating when your dash cam, which is supposed to be your reliable witness on the road, suddenly decides to take a break from recording. But don’t worry, most of the time, the fix is pretty straightforward. By the end of this, you’ll know exactly how to troubleshoot and get your Rexing dash cam back to diligently capturing every moment of your drive, ensuring you have that crucial footage if you ever need it for an insurance claim or a legal issue. We’ll cover everything from the most common culprits like SD card issues and power problems to trickier firmware glitches and how to prevent these recording woes in the future.
Your dash cam is an important tool for peace of mind, especially when considering that roughly 30% of U.S. drivers already use dash cams, and a significant 40% of dash cam owners have captured a crash or traffic incident on video, with half of those clips used for insurance claims or other legal matters. So, keeping your device in top shape is essential for staying protected on the road. Let’s dive in!
The Usual Suspects: Why Your Rexing Dash Cam Might Be Acting Up
When your Rexing dash cam stops recording, it usually boils down to a few common issues. Think of these as the main characters in our troubleshooting story. Knowing what typically goes wrong can really help pinpoint the problem quickly.
SD Card Woes: The Most Common Culprit
Honestly, the micro SD card is probably the first thing you should check. It’s like the heart of your dash cam, constantly writing and rewriting data, and it goes through a lot of stress. Issues here are incredibly common.
0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews)
There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one. |
Amazon.com:
Check Amazon for Rexing Dash Cam Latest Discussions & Reviews: |
- Full Memory Card: Your dash cam uses “loop recording,” which means it overwrites the oldest footage with new video when the card gets full. But if too many videos are “locked” saved due to a G-sensor event or manual lock, the card can fill up, preventing new recordings. When this happens, there’s literally no space for new files.
- Unsupported or Faulty Card: Not all SD cards are created equal, especially for dash cams. If you’re using a card that isn’t compatible, it just won’t work correctly. Rexing, like many dash cam brands, recommends using a Class 10 or higher micro SD card, and sometimes even specific “high endurance” cards. Some users have found that cards like SanDisk Ultra can cause issues, while SanDisk Extreme or Kingston Canvas Go Plus are often recommended for better reliability. Generic or cheap cards might have slow write speeds, leading to skipped recordings or errors.
- Improper Formatting: This is a big one! You have to format your SD card inside the dash cam, not on your computer. Formatting it on a computer can write tiny bits of code that the dash cam doesn’t understand, causing it to malfunction, sometimes even constantly turning on and off. Plus, regular formatting like once a month helps keep the card healthy and prevents file corruption.
- Physical Damage or Wear and Tear: SD cards have a limited lifespan because they’re constantly being written to and overwritten. After 6-12 months, or sometimes longer with high-quality cards, they can start to degrade and cause errors. Sometimes, you might even have trouble inserting the card, which could indicate a physical issue with the card or the slot.
Power Problems: Keeping Your Cam Juiced Up
A dash cam needs consistent power to record properly. Any interruption can stop it dead in its tracks.
- Insufficient or Intermittent Power Supply: Your Rexing dash cam is designed to be connected to a stable power source while recording, usually your car’s 12V power outlet or a hardwire kit. If the cable is loose, faulty, or the power source itself is unreliable, it can interrupt recording. Ever notice your dash cam turning off a few seconds after disconnecting power? That’s normal – the internal battery is typically for emergency shutdown, not for continuous recording.
- Faulty Cables or Chargers: Just like any electronic device, cables and chargers can go bad. A damaged or frayed power cable can cause intermittent power, leading to recording loss.
- Depleted Internal Battery: While the internal battery isn’t for continuous recording, it’s crucial for the dash cam to properly save the last file when power is cut. If this battery is depleted or faulty, it can lead to issues like the camera not turning on automatically when you start your car or random reboots. Replacing the internal battery is a common DIY fix for this specific problem.
Firmware Frustrations: Is Your Software Up to Date?
Think of firmware as your dash cam’s operating system. Just like your phone or computer, it needs updates and can sometimes have bugs.
- Outdated Firmware: Older firmware versions can have bugs that affect recording or compatibility with newer SD cards. Regular updates often include bug fixes and improved functionality.
- Corrupted or Incorrect Firmware: Sometimes a firmware update can go wrong, or you might accidentally install the wrong version for your specific model. This can cause the dash cam to malfunction, freeze, or even fail to turn on. Some users have even reported rear cameras or Wi-Fi features stopping after an update.
Settings Snafus: Check Your Dash Cam’s Configuration
It might sound simple, but sometimes the problem is just a setting that’s out of whack. Rexing V1 Loop Recording: Your Ultimate Guide to Never Missing a Moment
- Loop Recording Off: This is a fundamental feature! If loop recording is disabled, your dash cam will simply stop recording once the SD card is full instead of overwriting old files.
- G-Sensor Sensitivity Too High: The G-sensor detects impacts and “locks” the current video file to prevent it from being overwritten. If the sensitivity is set too high, even a bumpy road or slight movement in parking mode can trigger it, filling your SD card with many locked, “useless” videos and hindering loop recording.
- Incorrect Recording Length: Dash cams typically save video in clips e.g., 1, 3, or 5 minutes. If there’s an issue with how these clips are finalized, it can affect continuous recording.
Hardware Hiccups: When Things Go Beyond Software
While less common, sometimes the issue is physical damage or a faulty component.
- Faulty Rear Camera: Some users have reported their rear camera not recording, or even stopping working after a firmware update.
- Physical Damage: Drops, extreme temperatures, or prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can damage the internal components of your dash cam, leading to recording failures or other malfunctions.
- Unit Failure: Like any electronic device, a dash cam can simply fail due to internal component issues. This might manifest as the screen not working, the unit not turning on, or other serious problems.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide: Getting Your Rexing Back on Track
Now that we’ve looked at the common issues, let’s walk through some practical steps to get your Rexing dash cam recording again. Remember to go through these systematically – often, the simplest fix is the one that works!
1. The SD Card Deep Dive
Since the SD card is usually the main suspect, let’s start there.
- Remove and Reinsert: Power off your dash cam completely, carefully remove the micro SD card, and then reinsert it firmly until you hear a click. Sometimes it just needs to be seated properly.
- Format the SD Card Inside the Dash Cam!: This is crucial. If your card isn’t formatted correctly, it can lead to recording errors.
- Turn on your Rexing dash cam.
- Stop any ongoing recording usually by pressing the REC button.
- Press the Menu button twice to enter the setup menu.
- Use the directional buttons often the MIC button to scroll down and find the “Format” option.
- Select “Format” and confirm your choice usually by pressing “OK” or “Rec”.
- The dash cam will quickly format the card. Once it’s done, power off the unit and restart it to test.
- Pro Tip: Rexing recommends formatting your memory card once a month for optimal performance and to prevent issues.
- Test with a Different, High-Quality SD Card: If formatting doesn’t work, the card itself might be faulty or incompatible.
- Invest in a new, reputable brand micro SD card with a Class 10 or higher speed rating. Cards like SanDisk Extreme or Kingston Canvas Go Plus are often recommended for their endurance in dash cams. Avoid generic cards.
- Capacity: For single-channel cams, 32GB to 64GB might be enough for daily driving, but dual-channel or higher-resolution cameras often benefit from 128GB or 256GB to store more footage, especially if you have parking mode enabled.
- High Endurance: Look for cards specifically labeled “high endurance” as they’re designed for the constant read/write cycles of a dash cam.
- Insert the new card and format it inside the dash cam as described above.
- Check for “Locked” Files: If your loop recording isn’t working, check how many files are locked.
- Access your dash cam’s playback menu or connect the SD card to a computer.
- Delete any unnecessary locked files to free up space.
- Consider adjusting your G-sensor sensitivity to a lower setting if it’s constantly locking files unnecessarily.
2. Power Play: Ensuring Consistent Juice
Next, let’s make sure your dash cam is getting the power it needs. Unlock More with Rexing: Your Essential Guide to Product Registration
- Check All Connections: Make sure the power cable is securely plugged into both the dash cam and your car’s power outlet cigarette lighter or hardwire kit. Sometimes a loose connection is all it takes.
- Try a Different Power Source/Cable:
- If you’re using the car’s 12V outlet, try plugging the dash cam into a different USB charger or a portable power bank a wall-type phone charger or fully charged power bank is best, as car USB ports or laptops might not supply enough amperage. This helps rule out a faulty car charger or vehicle power outlet.
- Inspect your power cable for any visible damage, kinks, or frayed wires. If it looks worn, try a different compatible cable. A faulty power cable is a very common reason for recording issues.
- Internal Battery Check: If your dash cam isn’t turning on automatically when you start your car, even though it powers on when plugged in, the internal battery might be at fault. While replacing it yourself involves some DIY skills and potentially soldering, it can be a cost-effective solution compared to buying a new unit.
3. Firmware Fixes: A Quick Update
Outdated or corrupted firmware can cause all sorts of headaches.
- Check Your Current Firmware Version: Before updating, it’s a good idea to know what version you’re currently on. You can usually find this in the dash cam’s setup menu under “Version”. Write it down!
- Download the Latest Firmware:
- Visit the official Rexing USA support website rexingusa.com/support/firmware-tool/. This is crucial – never download firmware from unofficial sources.
- Select your specific dash cam model. You might need your current version information for some models like the V1 or V1P.
- Download the .zip file containing the firmware.
- Prepare Your SD Card:
- Format the SD card inside the dash cam first as described in step 1. This clears out any old firmware files that could interfere.
- Insert the formatted SD card into your computer.
- Unzip the downloaded firmware file to get the .bin file and any associated image files.
- Copy only the .bin firmware file and image files, if present to the root directory of your SD card. Don’t put it in any folders.
- Safely eject the SD card from your computer.
- Install the Firmware:
- With the dash cam powered off, insert the SD card back into it.
- Connect the dash cam to your car charger or a stable power source to power it on.
- The dash cam should automatically detect the firmware and begin updating. The screen might stay off, but a status light should be active. This usually takes up to a minute.
- IMPORTANT: After the update, format the SD card again inside the dash cam. This removes the firmware file, preventing the camera from trying to reinstall it every time it powers on.
- You can then power down the dash cam by holding the power button.
- Troubleshooting Failed Updates: If the update process fails, try re-downloading the firmware, ensure the SD card is high-quality, and maintain a stable power source throughout the process.
4. Resetting Your Settings
Sometimes a simple reset can clear up any software glitches or incorrect settings.
- Factory Reset Soft Reset: Most Rexing dash cams have a “Restore Default Settings” or “Reset” option in the setup menu.
- Power on your dash cam.
- Press the Menu button twice to get to the setup menu.
- Scroll through the options to find “Restore Default Settings” or “Reset.”
- Select it and confirm. This will revert all settings to their original factory configuration, so you’ll need to re-set the date, time, and any custom video resolutions.
- Hard Reset: If your dash cam is frozen or unresponsive, you might need a hard reset.
- Unplug the device from power and remove the micro SD card.
- Look for a small reset hole on your dash cam. Use a straightened paperclip to gently press the hidden button inside for about 5 seconds.
- Then, reconnect power and see if it turns on.
5. Testing and Monitoring
After going through these steps, it’s time to confirm your efforts paid off.
- Initial Test: With the newly formatted SD card and updated firmware if applicable, power on your dash cam and let it record for a few minutes. Then, remove the SD card and check the footage on a computer or through the dash cam’s playback function. Make sure video files are being created and saved correctly, and that loop recording is functioning as expected.
- Monitor Performance: Keep an eye on your dash cam’s behavior for the next few days. Does it start recording automatically? Does it continue to record without interruption? Is the screen functioning properly?
When to Call for Backup: Rexing Support and Warranty
If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your Rexing dash cam is still not recording, it might be time to reach out to the pros. What is a J1772 Adapter? Your Essential Guide to EV Charging
- Contact Rexing Support: Rexing is a U.S.-based company and prides itself on customer support.
- You can email them at [email protected].
- You can also call or text their toll-free number: 877 – 740 – 8004. Their hours are typically Monday – Friday, 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM EST.
- They also have a troubleshooting page on their website, which you’ve probably already consulted, but it’s worth mentioning again if you need to submit a formal request.
- Warranty Information: All Rexing cameras come with an 18-month warranty from the date of purchase, covering software, hardware, or performance failures. Accessories like chargers and hardwire kits usually have a 12-month warranty. Make sure to check their website for the most up-to-date warranty details, as policies can change. User-inflicted damage is generally not covered.
Maximizing Your Dash Cam’s Lifespan and Reliability
Prevention is always better than cure, right? A few good habits can go a long way in keeping your Rexing dash cam recording flawlessly.
Choosing the Right SD Card
This deserves a special mention because it’s such a frequent issue.
- High Endurance is Key: Dash cams put a lot of strain on SD cards with constant read/write cycles. Look for cards explicitly marketed as “High Endurance” or “Dash Cam Ready.” These are built to withstand the rigorous demands and extreme temperatures inside a vehicle.
- Reputable Brands: Stick with well-known brands like SanDisk Extreme, Samsung Pro Endurance, or Kingston Canvas Go Plus. Be wary of unusually cheap cards from unknown sellers, especially online, as counterfeit cards are unfortunately common and can cause significant problems.
- Proper Capacity: While higher capacity means more storage, ensure it’s compatible with your specific Rexing model. For general use, 64GB or 128GB is often a good balance for dual-channel dash cams, while single-channel might be fine with 32GB to 64GB. For heavy daily use or higher resolution recordings like 4K, 256GB or even 512GB might be advisable.
- Dedicated Card: Use one micro SD card specifically for your dash cam. Switching cards between different devices like cameras or drones can sometimes alter the format in a way that your dash cam won’t support.
Regular Maintenance
- Monthly Formatting: I can’t stress this enough! Regularly formatting your SD card inside the dash cam! once a month helps prevent file corruption and keeps the card optimized. This is probably the single most important maintenance step.
- Replace SD Cards Periodically: Even high-endurance cards have a lifespan. Plan to replace your dash cam’s SD card every 6 to 12 months, or at least every 1-2 years, depending on usage. This small investment can save you a lot of headache.
- Keep Firmware Updated: Check the Rexing website periodically for new firmware versions. Updates often fix bugs, improve performance, and add new features.
Optimal Placement
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: While dash cams are built to withstand car environments, continuous exposure to direct sunlight and extreme heat can shorten their lifespan and even lead to overheating issues, impacting recording stability. Try to mount it behind your rearview mirror if possible, or use a sunshade when parked.
By understanding these common issues and consistently applying these troubleshooting and maintenance tips, you can significantly improve the reliability of your Rexing dash cam. It’s a small investment in time for the big peace of mind it offers on the road.
Grab 50% OFF on RexingUSA.com Does tesla come with j1772 adapter
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my Rexing dash cam saying “SD Card Error”?
An “SD Card Error” typically means your dash cam can’t read or write to the card properly. The most common reasons are improper formatting, a faulty or incompatible SD card, or the card reaching its end of life. Try formatting the card inside the dash cam first. If that doesn’t work, try a different, high-quality, high-endurance micro SD card Class 10 or higher from a reputable brand like SanDisk Extreme or Samsung Pro Endurance.
My Rexing dash cam isn’t loop recording. What should I do?
If your Rexing dash cam isn’t loop recording, check your settings to ensure the loop recording feature is actually enabled. Another common cause is too many “locked” or protected video files filling up the SD card, leaving no space for new footage. Reduce your G-sensor sensitivity if it’s too high, and regularly format your SD card inside the dash cam to clear out old files. Using an SD card that’s too slow or incompatible can also prevent proper loop recording.
Why does my Rexing dash cam turn off after a few minutes?
If your Rexing dash cam turns off shortly after starting, it’s often a power-related issue. Dash cams are designed to be continuously powered by your car’s 12V supply, not the internal battery, which is only for emergencies. Check that the power cable is securely connected and not faulty, and try a different power source or cable to rule out an intermittent connection. If it still happens, perform a factory reset or consider updating the firmware.
How do I update the firmware on my Rexing dash cam?
To update your Rexing dash cam’s firmware, first, format your micro SD card directly on the dash cam. Then, download the latest firmware .bin file for your specific model from the official Rexing USA support website and copy it to the root directory of your SD card not inside any folders. With the dash cam powered off, insert the SD card, then power on the dash cam using its car charger. The update should begin automatically. After the update, format the SD card again inside the dash cam to remove the firmware file and prevent repeated installations.
Why is my Rexing dash cam’s screen black but the recording light is on?
A black screen with an active recording light can sometimes indicate a firmware issue or a display malfunction. First, try a hard reset using the reset pinhole if available. If that doesn’t work, try updating the firmware following the steps above. If the problem persists after a firmware update and reset, the issue might be with the screen hardware itself, and you should contact Rexing customer support for further assistance. Who is Jason Rexilius? A Modern Architect of Innovation
My Rexing dash cam isn’t turning on at all. What can I do?
If your Rexing dash cam won’t turn on, check your power source and connections first. Ensure the power cable is firmly plugged in and try a different power outlet or charger to rule out a faulty cable or car port. If it’s still unresponsive, try a hard reset using the small reset pinhole on the device if applicable. Sometimes a depleted internal battery can also prevent it from powering on automatically. If none of these steps work, it could indicate a more serious hardware failure, and contacting Rexing support would be the next step.
My rear camera is not working or not recording on my Rexing dash cam. What’s the issue?
If your Rexing dash cam’s rear camera isn’t working, first check the cable connection between the main unit and the rear camera. ensure it’s securely plugged in at both ends. Sometimes, a faulty connection or a damaged cable can cause this. In some cases, users have reported rear camera issues occurring after a firmware update, so checking for a specific firmware version that resolves this might be necessary. If the connections are fine and firmware doesn’t fix it, the rear camera unit itself might be faulty and require replacement.
Leave a Reply