Do the cameras on a Subaru record?

Subaru’s built‑in cameras are not designed to continuously record video. The EyeSight forward cameras and the rear/parking cameras are used for real‑time safety features rather than for storing footage. Some models offer an optional Drive Recorder (a built‑in dashcam) that can save video, but this is not universal and depends on model year and market.

In this article we explain how Subaru’s camera systems work, what kinds of recording (if any) occur, and how privacy and footage management differ between standard safety cameras and optional recording features.

Camera systems in Subaru vehicles

Subaru uses several camera setups across its lineup. The primary elements are around‑mirror forward cameras for EyeSight, rear/parking cameras for guidance during reversing, and sometimes additional cameras for surround/360° views. Some markets also offer a cabin/interior camera as part of driver monitoring features. None of these safety cameras are intended to function as a continuous video logger by default.

EyeSight forward cameras

EyeSight relies on dual forward‑facing cameras mounted near the rearview mirror to detect traffic, lane markings, and potential hazards. These cameras analyze scenes in real time to provide features such as adaptive cruise control, lane‑keeping assist, and collision warnings. They do not routinely store video footage for later viewing in typical configurations.

Rearview and surround cameras

The standard rear backup camera and any available 360° surround‑view cameras feed live video to the dashboard display while you’re moving or parking. In normal operation, Subaru does not retain a video log from these cameras; footage is not stored for later playback unless a separate dashcam or Drive Recorder is installed or activated.

Driver monitoring / cabin camera

In some markets and on certain trims, Subaru offers driver‑monitoring features (often branded as DriverFocus). These use an interior camera to gauge driver attention or fatigue, but these systems are designed for safety alerts rather than recording and storing video footage about the driver. Data handling for these features is subject to regional privacy policies.

Here is a quick breakdown of the camera types and whether they record by default.

• EyeSight forward cameras: real‑time safety analysis; no continuous recording stored by Subaru.


• Rear/parking cameras: live video for display during parking; no default video storage by Subaru.


• 360° surround cameras: live views; not stored unless a separate dashcam/Drive Recorder is used.


• Driver monitoring / cabin camera (where offered): safety alerts; not centralized video log for general viewing.

Built‑in recording is not universal. If you want continuous video coverage, you’ll typically need a dedicated dashcam or Subaru’s Drive Recorder feature where available.

Drive Recorder vs. standard cameras

Drive Recorder is Subaru’s option that provides built‑in dashcam functionality in certain markets and trims. When enabled, it can capture and store video segments from front (and, in some configurations, cabin) while the vehicle is in operation. Footage is usually stored locally and can be reviewed via the vehicle’s infotainment system or an associated app, depending on the model. Availability and specifics vary by model year and market, so check your exact configuration and your owner’s manual for precise behavior.

Because Drive Recorder is not available on every Subaru model, many owners rely on aftermarket dashcams if they want continuous or more flexible video recording capabilities. If Drive Recorder is present on your vehicle, be aware of local laws about dashcam usage and privacy requirements in your area.

Privacy, data, and recordings

Subaru’s safety camera systems are designed primarily for driver assistance and collision avoidance, with most footage not stored or transmitted by default. When connected services are enabled, Subaru may collect certain vehicle data to support safety features and service functions, but this data handling is governed by Subaru’s privacy policy and regional regulations. If you opt into Drive Recorder or use an aftermarket dashcam, that footage typically becomes your property and is subject to your privacy preferences and local laws.

In short, the standard Subaru camera systems are not a general recording device. If you want recorded video, verify whether your model supports Drive Recorder, and always review the available privacy and data‑sharing options in your region.

Summary

Subaru’s EyeSight and other built‑in cameras are primarily real‑time safety tools, not a universal video archive. Continuous recording is not part of the default setup. An optional Drive Recorder can provide built‑in dashcam functionality on select models and markets, but availability varies. For persistent video coverage, many owners turn to aftermarket dashcams. Always consult your owner’s manual and local privacy laws, and review Subaru’s official guidance for your specific vehicle configuration.

Do Subarus have built-in tracking devices?

With a STARLINK connected services-equipped vehicle and the MySubaru app, you can lock/unlock your vehicle remotely, access your horn & lights, or even locate your vehicle on a map, all from your desktop, tablet or mobile device.

Are car cameras always recording?

No, car cameras are not always recording; they operate based on their configuration and power source. Standard dashcams start and stop with the car's ignition, while advanced models with a "parking mode" feature will record automatically when they detect movement or impact while the car is off. For continuous recording when the car is off, the camera needs to be hardwired to the car's battery or connected to an external power source like a battery pack.
 
This video explains how dash cams work and their recording modes: 42sFrakking CreationsYouTube · Jun 18, 2025
Standard and parking modes

• Standard (driving mode): Most dashcams automatically start recording when the car's ignition is on and stop when the car is turned off. 
• Parking mode: Some dashcams have a "parking mode" that allows them to record when the car is off. 
  • This mode is not always continuous; it often uses motion or impact detection to trigger recording only when an event occurs, which saves power and storage space. 
  • Some parking modes use a time-lapse feature to record continuously at a very low frame rate. 

Enabling continuous recording when parked 

• Hardwiring: To have the camera record continuously while parked, it must be hardwired to the car's power supply. 
• Power source: A hardwiring kit or an external battery pack provides power to the camera even when the car's 12-volt socket is off. 

This video demonstrates how to enable continuous recording with a hardwiring kit: 41sBlackboxMyCar Dash Cams | North AmericaYouTube · Jun 30, 2025
Key considerations

• Battery drain: Continuous recording is a significant drain on the car battery, which is why most dashcams rely on motion-activated parking modes or only record while driving. 
• Configuration: Whether a camera is always recording depends on the device's settings, installation method, and power source. 

Does Subaru record you?

Subaru Eyesight, a collision-avoidance safety system, was never intended to be a dash cam. The cameras can record about 22 seconds of footage if your vehicle is involved in a collision.

How do I know if a car camera is recording?

If you're concerned your Dash Cam isn't recording, your first port of call is to check the Dash Cam screen. You'll see the view of what your Dash Cam can see. When the Dash Cam is recording, you'll see a small red circle at the top left of your screen. Next to this, the duration of your footage will be shown.