How do I know if my car has a dash cam?
Most cars do not come with a dash cam by default.
To confirm, look for a forward-facing camera behind the rearview mirror, check the vehicle’s settings for a dash cam or drive recorder option, or review the brochure or dealer build sheet.
Visual clues that a dash cam is built-in or installed
What to look for
Before the list, here are common indicators that a dash cam may be present, whether factory-installed or added after purchase.
- A forward-facing camera located just behind the windshield, centered near the rearview mirror.
- A camera integrated into or attached to the rearview mirror housing or stem.
- An illuminated Dash/Drive Recorder indicator on the dash, mirror, or instrument cluster.
- Cables running from the windshield area to a small box, memory module, or power supply tucked in the headliner, behind the dash, or under the console.
- A removable memory card slot or visible storage media mounted near the camera housing.
Conclusion: If you notice one or more of these signs, your car likely has a dash cam, either as an OEM feature or an aftermarket installation.
Factory vs aftermarket dash cams
Key differences
Understanding whether the device is built-in (OEM) or an aftermarket installation helps with access and maintenance.
- OEM dash cams are typically integrated into the windshield, mirror, or factory electronics and may require dealer activation or be listed as a factory option on the build sheet.
- Aftermarket dash cams are standalone devices installed after purchase, often mounted behind the rearview mirror with a clamp or suction mount and powered through the fuse box or a hard-wiring kit.
- OEM systems often save footage to the car’s internal memory or a dedicated SD card and may tie into other safety features; app support varies by brand.
- Aftermarket systems frequently offer additional features such as dual cameras (front and rear), cloud backups, or advanced parking modes, and they typically use their own memory cards.
- Documentation and access: OEM cameras are usually noted in the owner’s manual; aftermarket devices come with their own manuals and apps.
Conclusion: Knowing whether the dash cam is OEM or aftermarket helps you understand how to access footage and what controls are available in the vehicle.
How to confirm or access dash cam footage
Steps to locate and retrieve recordings
If you want to verify the presence of footage or retrieve it, follow these steps.
- Check the car’s infotainment or instrument cluster menus for terms like Drive Recorder, Dash Cam, or Camera settings.
- Visually inspect the windshield area for a camera behind the rearview mirror or a camera integrated into the mirror itself.
- Look for a memory card slot or a removable memory module in the dash camera housing or related enclosure.
- Consult the owner’s manual or contact the dealer to confirm whether your model includes dash cam functionality and how to access stored videos.
- If a dash cam is present, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to retrieve footage, while respecting privacy laws and local regulations on video recording.
Conclusion: Access methods vary by OEM versus aftermarket; always handle footage responsibly and ensure you have proper permission to view or share it.
Summary
To determine if your car has a dash cam, start with a visual check near the windshield and rearview mirror, then review the car’s settings and documentation for any Drive Recorder or Dash Cam feature. Distinguish between OEM and aftermarket installations by looking for integrated hardware versus standalone devices, and use the vehicle’s manual or dealer guidance to access footage if available. If you don’t find any signs, you likely don’t have a dash cam installed, though you can add one with a reputable aftermarket kit if desired.
How do I detect a hidden camera in my car?
Turn off the lights and look around for tiny red or green LED lights. Some microphones have ``power on'' indicator lights, and if the person who sets it up is careless they may fail to cover or deactivate this feature. While the lights are off, grab a flashlight and carefully examine all mirrors.
Will car insurance go down if you have a dash cam?
Is there a dashcam car insurance discount? Insurance companies generally don't offer discounts for dashcams, but they can help resolve claims by providing evidence that you weren't at fault in an accident.
Which cars come with a dash cam?
Several car brands, including Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Tesla, and Hyundai, offer models with built-in dash cams, often as a feature integrated with their advanced driver-assistance systems. Toyota also has an integrated dashcam system available for certain 2021-2023 models like the Camry and Highlander. Some automakers provide this functionality as a software-based "digital extra" or as part of a larger camera package.
You can watch this video to learn about the quality of a Tesla's built-in dash cam compared to an aftermarket dual-channel system: 1mKim JavaYouTube · Nov 18, 2025
Cars with built-in dash cams
- Mercedes-Benz: Many 2024 and 2025 models include dashcam functionality as a software add-on, though it requires a USB drive for storage and is front-facing only.
- BMW: The "Drive Recorder" system is available on many models, which can save recordings to the vehicle's onboard storage.
- Tesla: Models like the Model S, Model X, Model 3, and Model Y use their extensive camera systems for a 360-degree dash cam feature as part of the Autopilot functionality.
- Hyundai: Offers integrated dash cameras in some models, such as the Exter, Venue, and Creta N-Line.
- Toyota: Has an integrated dashcam system available for various models between 2021 and 2023, including the Camry, Highlander, and RAV4.
- Mini: Offers the "Mini Drive Recorder," similar to BMW's system, thanks to its relationship with BMW.
- BYD: The BYD Atto 3 is another example of an electric vehicle that comes with a built-in dash cam.
Do cars automatically have a dash cam?
While traditionally these devices have been bought as external add-ons, some car manufacturers have started integrating them into their vehicles as standard or optional equipment.
