How to Turn Your Old Phone into a Cost-Effective Dash Cam
Dash cams are becoming increasingly popular for capturing road trips and protecting drivers against insurance fraud in the event of accidents. While dash cams can be quite expensive, there’s an easy and budget-friendly solution: transforming your old phone into a functional dash cam. If you have an old phone lying around, you can repurpose it to save money and still enjoy many of the benefits a dedicated dash cam offers. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
Quick Steps to Convert Your Phone into a Dash Cam
- Download a Dash Cam App
The first step is to install a reliable dash cam app on your phone. Apps like Droid Dashcam provide essential features such as timestamps, GPS data, and speed tracking. These apps can run in the background, so you can continue using your phone for other tasks, like taking calls, without interrupting your recordings. Most importantly, many apps automatically start recording as soon as you begin driving. - Secure a Phone Mount
A phone mount is crucial for stability and safety. Choose an affordable option that will securely hold your phone in place, offering a clear view of the road. You can easily find a variety of mounts online on platforms like Amazon or local retailers. Make sure the mount doesn’t obstruct your view while driving. - Use a Charging Cable
Continuous video recording can quickly drain your phone’s battery. To ensure uninterrupted recording, keep your phone plugged into a charging cable while driving. A long charging cable will allow for flexibility in mounting your phone without worrying about the battery running low. - Set It Up in Your Car
After downloading the app and securing the mount, it’s time to set everything up in your car. Attach the phone to the dashboard, plug it in, and open the app. Your phone is now ready to record everything happening on the road.
Essentials You’ll Need
- An old phone (or your current phone if you prefer, although an old one is more convenient for leaving in the car).
- A dash cam app like Droid Dashcam or other similar apps.
- A phone mount for stability and secure attachment.
- A charging cable to prevent the battery from draining while recording.
Pros and Cons of Using a Phone as a Dash Cam
Pros:
- Cost-Effective: Repurposing an old phone is a budget-friendly alternative to purchasing a dedicated dash cam. You only need a few minimal accessories to get started.
- Instant Access: With an app on your phone, you can quickly review recorded footage or upload it to the cloud, ensuring you have access to important videos anytime.
- Feature-Rich Apps: Many dash cam apps come with advanced features, such as speed tracking, GPS, and timestamping, which are often found in more expensive, dedicated dash cams.
Cons:
- Risk of Theft: Since your phone will be visible in the car, it might attract potential thieves. Make sure to take precautions when leaving your car unattended.
- Size and Aesthetics: Phones are bulkier than dedicated dash cams and can sometimes obstruct your view of the road, especially if not mounted properly.
- Camera Quality: Older phones may not have the same resolution, image quality, or night vision capabilities that newer or specialized dash cams offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is using a phone as a dash cam legal?
Yes, it is legal in most regions, but laws can vary by location. Be sure to securely mount your phone to avoid distractions while driving. Handling the phone while driving is illegal in many places, so the phone should be mounted before you start driving.
Are dash cam apps free?
Many dash cam apps are free to download, but some offer premium versions with additional features or an ad-free experience.
Does the phone need a SIM card?
No, a SIM card is not required to use your phone as a dash cam. You can use your phone’s Wi-Fi to upload videos to the cloud or store them directly on your phone.
Final Thoughts
Repurposing an old phone as a dash cam is an affordable and practical solution for those who don’t want to invest in an expensive, specialized dash cam. While it may not have all the advanced features or sleek design of dedicated models, it’s a great option for those on a budget. Just ensure your old phone’s camera quality meets your needs, especially for night driving, before putting it to work.
