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Guide
Tesla Dashcam records selected exterior camera feeds to compatible USB storage while the vehicle is in a suitable state. Saved clips and Sentry Mode events are separate from the rolling recent-footage buffer.
How Tesla Dashcam works depends on the vehicle, region and software version. On supported vehicles it uses exterior cameras and writes video to a properly formatted USB drive; consult the on-screen Controls menu and the current manual for the feeds available to your car.
Use the vehicle's USB-formatting option when available, or follow Tesla's folder and file-system instructions exactly. Keep the drive connected to the designated data-capable port, because some cabin ports provide charging only.
The system maintains a rolling set of recent footage. Use the Dashcam control or configured horn-on-save feature to preserve a clip when something relevant happens; otherwise older recent files may be overwritten.
Open the Dashcam Viewer on the touchscreen when the vehicle permits it, then select a saved event and camera angle. You can also remove the drive safely and review its folders on a compatible computer.
Sentry Mode is intended for certain parked-vehicle events and uses energy while active. It is not a promise of continuous protection, and Tesla notes that detection and recording vary with circumstances.
Save the relevant event promptly, avoid altering the original files, and copy them to separate storage. Camera footage can be incomplete, so retain other evidence and follow local reporting requirements.
Common questions
It can maintain recent footage while Dashcam is active and storage is available, but saved events and parked Sentry recordings follow different rules. Check the status icon and current vehicle manual.
Supported vehicles store clips on compatible USB media connected to the designated port. The folders separate recent, saved and Sentry-related footage.
Supported software includes a Dashcam Viewer for reviewing clips while the vehicle is parked. Availability and controls can differ by vehicle and software release.
Dashcam and Sentry Mode are distinct. Sentry Mode can monitor certain parked events when enabled and permitted by the vehicle's state, but it uses energy and has operating limits.
Keep exploring
VIOFO A229 Pro 2CH is our broad recommendation for detailed front and rear coverage. Garmin Mini 3 favors discretion, while Garmin X310 is the sharper single-camera choice.
A front and rear dash cam records both directions and can provide context a single lens misses. Check the rear-camera cable route and simultaneous recording resolution before buying.
Start with the coverage you need: front-only, front and rear, cabin or a wider multi-camera view. Then compare recording detail, storage and power requirements.
The A329S serves buyers seeking high-detail multichannel recording; A229 models cover more moderate dual-camera needs, while A119 Mini 2 is the compact front-only option.