Garmin Dash Cam X310 Owner's Manual

Getting Started

⚠️ WARNING: See the Important Safety and Product Information guide in the product box for product warnings and other important information.

Device Overview

The device features a touchscreen display. On the side, there are buttons for power and returning to the previous page. A dedicated button is available to save a video recording from the viewfinder.

Touchscreen

• Swipe left to open the menu.
• Swipe up or down to scroll the menu.
• Swipe right to close the menu or return to the previous menu.
• Touch to choose an option in the menu.

Power/Return Button

• Press to turn the device on.
• Hold for 3 seconds to turn the device off.
• Press to return to the previous page.

Save Video Button

• From the viewfinder, press to save a video.

Installing a Memory Card

To record video, you must install a compatible memory card (Memory Card Specifications, page 22).

1. Insert the memory card into the slot .

2. Press it in until it clicks.

Formatting the Memory Card

The camera requires a memory card formatted using the exFAT file system. You can use the camera to format your card using this file system.

Format your memory card at least once every 6 months to extend its useful life. A new memory card must also be formatted if it is not already using the exFAT file system.

? NOTE: Formatting the memory card deletes all videos and data on the card.

• Connect the camera to power.
• Swipe left to open the menu.
• Select Settings > Camera > Format Card.
• Keep the camera connected to power until formatting is complete.

When formatting is complete, the camera displays a message and begins recording.

Removing the Memory Card

ℹ️ NOTICE: Removing the memory card while the device is turned on can result in a loss of data or damage to the device.

• Turn off the device.
• Press the card in until it clicks.
• Release the card.

The card ejects from the slot.

Mounting Considerations

The camera attaches to the windshield using the included adhesive mount, which is difficult to remove once installed. Carefully consider the mounting location before installation.

• Do not mount the camera where it interferes with the driver's view of the road.
• Choose a location providing a clear view of the road ahead.
• Verify the area in front of the camera is cleared by the windshield wipers.
• Avoid placing the camera behind a tinted area of the windshield.

Installing the Camera on Your Windshield

ℹ️ NOTICE: The adhesive mount is intended for long-term installation and is difficult to remove. Carefully consider the mounting location.

Review windshield mounting considerations (Mounting Considerations, page 2) before installation.

For best results, install between 21°C and 38°C (70°F to 100°F). Adhesive may not bond correctly outside this range. At lower temperatures, clear snow, ice, and moisture, and warm the windshield with the defroster before installing.

The camera attaches using the included adhesive mount.

• Clean the inside of the windshield with water or alcohol and a lint-free cloth. Ensure it is free of dust, wax, oils, or coatings.
• Hold the camera in the desired mounting location, verifying a clear, unimpeded view.
• Once the location is selected, remove the protective film from the mount adhesive.
• Position the mount over the mounting location. ? TIP: The adhesive is extremely sticky. Avoid touching it to the windshield until properly positioned.
• Press the mount firmly onto the windshield and maintain pressure for 30 seconds to ensure proper contact.

Connecting the Camera to Vehicle Power

1. Plug the power cable into the USB port on the camera.

2. Route the power cable to your vehicle power outlet.

ℹ️ NOTE: Use the included vehicle power adapter. Avoid vehicle USB ports, as they may not provide sufficient power. Connecting to a USB port with data transfer capability might cause the camera to enter USB mass storage mode, preventing video recording or smartphone connection.

The included power cable is designed to be routed discreetly behind vehicle trim along the windshield, doorframe, or dash.

3. Plug the Garmin Dash Cam power cable into the included vehicle power adapter.

4. Plug the vehicle power adapter into your vehicle's power outlet.

5. If necessary, turn on the vehicle ignition switch to provide power to the outlet. The camera turns on and starts recording.

Setting the Camera Placement

Mount the device in the left, center, or right of your windshield. For optimal driver assistance feature performance, set the Camera Placement option to indicate the device's location.

• Swipe the screen left to open the menu.
• Select Settings > Driver Assistance > Camera Placement.
• Select Horizontal Placement, and choose your camera's horizontal position.
• Select Vehicle Height.
• Select an option:
  • Tall: For large vehicles like vans or trucks.
  • Normal: For cars.

Turning On the Device Manually

Before using battery power, fully charge the battery.

ℹ️ NOTE: When connected to an ignition-switched power outlet, the device turns on automatically with the vehicle.

Select [power button]. The device turns on.

Turning Off the Device Manually

ℹ️ NOTE: When connected to an ignition-switched power outlet, the device turns off automatically with the vehicle.

Hold [power button] for 3 seconds.

If connected to a WiFi network with an active Vault subscription, the device uploads available videos to the Vault before turning off.

If connected to external power, the Parking Guard feature enables after five seconds. If needed, follow on-screen instructions to turn off the device before Parking Guard activates.

Main Menu

From the viewfinder, swipe left to open the main menu. Swipe up or down to scroll. Touch an item to select it.

• Gallery: View and manage recorded videos (Viewing Videos, page 8).
• Garmin Drive App: Pair your camera with your smartphone and the Garmin Drive app (Pairing with Your Smartphone, page 15).
• Settings: Configure camera features, system settings, and view system information (Settings, page 19).
• Voice Control: Enable/disable voice control features (Voice Control, page 13).
• Travelapse: Start and stop Travelapse recording (Travelapse, page 7).

Dash Cam Recording

ℹ️ NOTICE: Some jurisdictions may prohibit or regulate recording audio/video or taking photographs. Laws may require consent from all parties. It is your responsibility to know and comply with all applicable laws and regulations.

The dash cam records video to the memory card (Installing a Memory Card, page 2). By default, it starts recording when turned on and continues until turned off. If the memory card is full, the oldest unsaved video is automatically deleted to make space. The 'promptly delete unsaved video' option (configurable in Camera Settings, page 19) continually deletes unsaved video older than three minutes and all unsaved video upon power off. Save recordings to prevent overwriting or deletion (Saving Unsaved Video Footage, page 9).

Saving a Video Recording

By default, the device uses a sensor to detect incidents and automatically saves video footage from 15 seconds before and 15 seconds after the event. You can also save video files manually.

Press [save video button]. The device saves footage recorded before, during, and after the press.

? TIP: You can also save video files using voice commands (Voice Control, page 13).

The memory card has limited storage. Transfer saved recordings to your smartphone (Editing and Exporting a Video, page 17) or computer (Videos on Your Computer, page 9).

Event Detection

By default, the device uses a sensor to detect incidents and automatically saves video footage recorded 15 seconds before and 15 seconds after the event. The footage is stamped with the time, date, and location.

Turning Audio Recording On or Off

ℹ️ NOTICE: Some jurisdictions may prohibit recording audio or require passenger consent. It is your responsibility to know and follow all laws and restrictions.

The device can record audio using its integrated microphone. You can turn audio recording on or off.

• Swipe left to open the menu.
• Select Settings > Camera > Record Audio.

? TIP: You can also use voice commands (Voice Control, page 13).

Travelapse

The Travelapse feature captures a fast-motion video of your trip for sharing. It does not stop dash cam recording.

ℹ️ NOTE: Travelapse recording is not available if the 'promptly delete unsaved video' option is enabled (Camera Settings, page 19).

You can manually start and stop Travelapse recording via the main menu or voice commands.

To start: Select Travelapse > Start (from main menu) or say 'OK, Garmin, Start Travelapse'.

To stop: Select Travelapse > Stop (from main menu) or say 'OK, Garmin, Stop Travelapse'.

Parking Guard

The Parking Guard feature records video automatically while your vehicle is parked. When you turn off the vehicle, the camera enters parked recording mode and records video upon detecting an incident. With an active Vault subscription, it sends a smartphone notification when connected to WiFi. Manage settings via the Garmin Drive app.

Enabling or Disabling Parking Guard

• Swipe left to open the menu.
• Select an option:
  • To enable: Settings > Parking Guard > Enable.
  • To disable: Settings > Parking Guard > Settings > Enable.

Parking Guard Settings

Swipe left to open the menu, and select Settings > Parking Guard > Settings.

• Enable: Enables or disables the Parking Guard feature.
• Auto Start: Sets the time the vehicle must remain still before Parking Guard activates.
• Impact Sensitivity: Adjusts sensitivity for incident detection.
• Monitoring Time: Sets how long Parking Guard remains active before turning off.
• Run on Battery: Uses the camera battery if no external power is connected. ℹ️ NOTE: Touching the camera with this enabled may trigger recording due to motion detection.
• Record Before Incident: Records 15 seconds before incidents are detected. Requires an external power source.

Viewing Videos

ℹ️ NOTE: Recording and alerts are disabled while viewing videos.

• Swipe left to open the menu.
• Select Gallery.
• Select an option:
  • ℹ️ NOTE: Unsaved and Travelapse videos are unavailable if 'promptly delete unsaved video' is enabled (Camera Settings, page 19).
  • Saved Videos: View saved videos.
  • Temporary Videos: View recent unsaved footage.
• Select a video.

Saving Unsaved Video Footage

View and save clips from unsaved temporary footage in the gallery. This feature is unavailable if 'promptly delete unsaved video' is enabled (Camera Settings, page 19).

• Swipe left to open the menu.
• Select Gallery > Temporary Videos.
• Select a day and time. The video plays.
• Touch the screen for controls.
• Drag the slider to move through the video.
• When you find footage to save, press [save video button]. The device saves a 30-second clip (15 seconds before and 15 seconds after the save point).

Deleting a Video

• While viewing a video in the gallery, tap the screen to open the menu.
• Select > Yes.

Videos on Your Computer

ℹ️ NOTE: Some media players may not support high-resolution playback.

Videos are stored in the DCIM directory on the camera memory card in HEVC (H.265) MP4 format. Connect the memory card or device to your computer to view and transfer videos (Connecting the Camera to Your Computer, page 10). Visit garmin.com/dashcamvideos for more information.

Videos are sorted into folders:

• 100EVENT: Videos saved automatically upon incident detection.
• 102SAVED: Videos saved manually by the user.
• 103PARKM: Videos saved while parked.
• 104TLPSE: Travelapse videos.
• 105UNSVD: Unsaved video footage. The oldest unsaved video is overwritten when storage is full.

Driver Awareness Features and Alerts

These features encourage attentive driving. The device provides audible tones or messages and displays information for each alert. Audible tones can be enabled or disabled for some alerts.

• Forward collision warning: Alerts when unsafe distance to vehicle ahead is detected.
• Lane departure warning: Alerts when crossing a lane boundary unintentionally.
• Go alert: Alerts when stopped traffic starts moving.
• Speed cameras: Alerts for speed cameras, displaying speed limit and distance.
• Red light cameras: Alerts for red light cameras, displaying distance.

Forward Collision Warning System

⚠️ WARNING: FCWS is for information only and does not replace driver responsibility. It relies on the camera and may have limited functionality in low visibility. For more information, go to garmin.com/warnings.

Alerts when an unsafe distance to the vehicle ahead is detected. Uses GPS to determine speed and calculate safe following distance. Activates automatically above 65 km/h (40 mph). An audible alert and on-screen warning appear when too close.

Diagram shows a car icon with radar waves emanating from it, indicating a forward-looking sensor system for detecting vehicles ahead.

Forward Collision Warning System Performance Tips

Several factors affect FCWS performance:

• Activates only above 65 km/h (40 mph).
• May not detect vehicles if the camera's view is obscured by rain, fog, snow, glare, or darkness.
• May not function properly if the camera is incorrectly aligned (Setting the Camera Placement, page 6).
• May not detect vehicles farther than 40 m (130 ft) or closer than 5 m (16 ft).
• May not function properly if camera placement settings (vehicle height, device placement) are incorrect (Setting the Camera Placement, page 6).

Lane Departure Warning System

⚠️ WARNING: LDWS is for information only and does not replace driver responsibility. It relies on the camera for lane marker warnings and may have limited functionality in low visibility. For more information, go to garmin.com/warnings.

Alerts when you may be crossing a lane boundary unintentionally. Provides alerts only when vehicle speed exceeds 65 km/h (40 mph). The alert appears on the left or right side of the screen indicating the crossed boundary.

Diagram shows a car icon within lane lines, with an arrow indicating departure from the lane.

ℹ️ NOTE: For best performance, set the Camera Placement option correctly.

Lane Departure Warning Performance Tips

Several factors affect LDWS performance:

• Provides alerts only when vehicle speed exceeds 65 km/h (40 mph).
• May not function properly if the camera is incorrectly aligned.
• May not function properly if camera placement settings (vehicle height, device placement) are incorrect (Setting the Camera Placement, page 6).
• Requires a clear, continuous view of lane divider lines.
• Lane departures may not be detected when divider lines are obscured by weather, glare, construction, or other obstructions.
• Lane departures may not be detected if lane divider lines are misaligned, missing, or heavily worn.
• May not detect lane departures on extremely wide, narrow, or winding roads.

Go Alert

Plays a tone and displays an alert when stopped traffic ahead begins moving. Appears after the vehicle ahead has moved substantially and your vehicle remains stopped. Useful at stop lights or traffic delays. Uses the dash camera to detect vehicle movement and requires a clear road view.

Diagram shows two cars stopped, then the front car moving with text 'Traffic Is Moving'.

Red Light and Speed Cameras

ℹ️ NOTICE: Garmin is not responsible for the accuracy or consequences of using the red light/speed camera database.

ℹ️ NOTE: Feature availability varies by region and product model.

Information on camera locations is available in some areas with a paid subscription. The device alerts you when approaching a reported speed or red light camera.

• In some areas, data is received when connected to a smartphone running the Garmin Drive app.
• Update the camera database using Garmin Express software (garmin.com/express) or the Garmin Drive app for the most up-to-date information.

Voice Control

Control your camera by speaking words and commands.

ℹ️ NOTE: Voice control is not available for all languages. Commands must be spoken in English, even if the interface language is different.

Controlling the Camera Using Voice Commands

1. Say 'OK, Garmin' to activate voice control. The camera plays a tone and listens.

2. Say a command:

• To save a video: 'Save Video'.
• To enable audio recording: 'Record Audio'.
• To disable audio recording: 'Stop Audio'.
• To start Travelapse recording: 'Start Travelapse'.
• To stop Travelapse recording: 'Stop Travelapse'.

The camera plays a tone when it recognizes your command.

Turning Voice Control On or Off

• Swipe left to open the menu.
• Select Voice Control > Settings > Enable.

Voice Control Tips

• Speak in a normal voice directed at the device.
• Reduce background noise for better recognition.
• Say the wake word ('OK, Garmin' by default) before each command.
• Listen for a tone confirming command recognition.
• Change the wake word if you have multiple Garmin devices with voice control (Changing the Wake Word, page 14).

Changing the Wake Word

The default wake word is 'OK, Garmin'. You can change it, which is useful if you have multiple Garmin devices with voice control.

• Swipe left to open the menu.
• Select Voice Control > Settings > Wake Word.
• Select a wake word.

Pairing with Your Smartphone

Pair your camera with your smartphone using the Garmin Drive app. The app allows setting up multi-camera networks, changing settings, viewing, editing, and saving videos. It also enables uploading, managing, and sharing footage via secure online storage (Vault).

ℹ️ NOTE: Remote WiFi and Vault features require a paid subscription (Subscribing to Vault, page 16).

• Install the Garmin Drive app from your smartphone's app store.
• Connect the camera to power using the included adapter and cable. The camera turns on.
• Place the camera and smartphone within 3 m (10 ft.) of each other.
• Open the Garmin Drive app on your phone.
• Select an option:
  • If this is your first Garmin device, accept the license agreements.
  • If pairing an additional camera, select Add Another Device.
• Select Garmin Dash Cam Series.
• On your camera, swipe left to open the menu.
• Select Get the App.
• Follow on-screen instructions on your phone to complete pairing and setup.

After pairing, the app dashboard appears. The camera and smartphone connect automatically when turned on and within range.

Connecting Your Camera to a WiFi Network

ℹ️ NOTE: Remote WiFi and Vault features require a paid subscription (Subscribing to Vault, page 16).

To connect to an existing WiFi network, the network must allow devices to see and communicate with each other. Use the Garmin Drive app to connect.

While connected to WiFi, the camera automatically uploads full-resolution videos to the Vault upon detecting an incident. You can also remotely view a live feed via the Garmin Drive app (Viewing the Live View Camera Feed, page 16).

• Connect your camera to the Garmin Drive app (Pairing with Your Smartphone, page 15).
• From the Garmin Drive app, select [Wi-Fi icon], and select your vehicle and camera name.
• Select Wi-Fi Connections. A list of nearby access points appears.
• Select your WiFi network and enter the password. The camera connects.

The camera saves network information and connects automatically next time it's on and within range.

Viewing Videos on Your Smartphone

Before viewing, pair your Garmin Dash Cam with the Garmin Drive app (Pairing with Your Smartphone, page 15).

ℹ️ NOTE: Recording and alerts are disabled while viewing videos.

• From the Garmin Drive app, select Review Video.
• Select an option:
  • Saved category: View saved videos.
  • Temporary category: View recent unsaved footage.

Viewing the Live View Camera Feed

To view the Live View camera feed remotely, you need an active Vault subscription and your camera connected to a WiFi network (Connecting Your Camera to a WiFi Network, page 15). You can also connect to a constant 12V power source (Constant Power Cable, page 23).

View the live feed using the Live View feature in the Garmin Drive app. Connect directly via Bluetooth® or remotely via WiFi.

• From the Garmin Drive app, select Live View. The app scans for available cameras.
• If necessary, select your camera from the list. The live view appears.

Deleting a Video Using Your Smartphone

• When viewing the list of saved videos, select Select.
• Select one or more files.
• Select [delete icon].

Vault Storage

ℹ️ NOTE: Requires an active Vault subscription. Vault features are not available in all countries.

Upload, manage, and share dash camera videos via secure online storage (Vault). With a paid subscription, videos are automatically uploaded to the Vault when connected to WiFi.

Purchase a Vault subscription from the Garmin Drive app. ℹ️ NOTE: Your dash camera must be connected to WiFi to use this feature.

Subscribing to Vault

Purchase a Vault subscription to store videos on a secure online server.

• From the Garmin Drive app, select your device.
• Select Settings > Vault Storage > Choose a Plan.
• Follow the on-screen instructions.

Sharing a Video

Share a secure link to a dash camera video from the Vault.

ℹ️ NOTE: An active Vault subscription is required.

• From the Garmin Drive app, select Vault.
• Select a video, and select Secure Share.
• Follow the on-screen instructions.

Disabling a Shared Video Link

Disable a link to a previously shared video. The video becomes private, and the link/passcode are disabled.

• From the Garmin Drive app, select Vault.
• Select a video, and select Disable Link > Continue.

Removing a Video from the Vault

• From the Garmin Drive app, select Vault.
• Select a video, and select Remove From Vault > Continue.

Editing and Exporting a Video

Trim video length to remove unnecessary footage before exporting to the Vault. Videos stored in the Vault cannot be trimmed.

1. While viewing a video, drag the trimming handles on the video progress bar left or right to trim the video length.

2. Select the Include Audio check box to include recorded audio (optional).

3. Select Export.

ℹ️ NOTE: Keep the app in the foreground while exporting. The app exports the trimmed video.

4. After export, select an option:

• To save to your phone: Save to Phone.
• To remove from camera memory card: Remove From Camera.
• To return to gallery: Done.

Multiple Camera Network

Install multiple dash cameras (e.g., front and rear) in the same vehicle to create composite picture-in-picture videos from simultaneous recordings. Pair multiple cameras with the Garmin Drive app. If a GPS-connected camera is part of the network, location information can be added to saved videos for all cameras.

Creating Picture-in-Picture Multi-Camera Videos

To use this feature, pair at least two cameras with the Garmin Drive app and record footage with both.

The Garmin Drive app allows creating composite, picture-in-picture videos from footage recorded simultaneously by two cameras.

• From the Garmin Drive app, select Review Video.
• Select a multi-camera video. Multi-camera videos are indicated by multiple camera icons on the thumbnail. The app combines simultaneous recordings into one icon.
• Select and to choose the camera footage for the fullscreen portion.
• Drag handles on the video progress bar to trim video length.
• Select Continue.
• Select and to choose the camera footage for the picture-in-picture portion.
• Select the corner of the screen for the picture-in-picture footage, and select Export.

ℹ️ NOTE: Keep the app in the foreground when exporting. The app exports the picture-in-picture video to your smartphone.

Settings

Camera Settings in the Garmin Drive App

Recording Settings

From the Garmin Drive app, select [gear icon], and select the vehicle and camera name.

• Data Overlay: Adjusts the type of data displayed on videos.
• Exposure Value: Adjusts light exposure level.
• Incident Detection: Adjusts sensitivity for incident detection.
• Resolution: Adjusts video resolution.
• Travelapse: Enables or disables the Travelapse feature (Travelapse, page 7).
• Unsaved Videos: Sets when unsaved video footage is deleted. 'Delete When Full' deletes the oldest unsaved video when storage is full. 'Promptly Delete' continually deletes unsaved video older than three minutes and all unsaved video upon power off, useful for privacy. Travelapse videos cannot be recorded when 'Promptly Delete' is selected.

Setup Settings

From the Garmin Drive app, select [gear icon], and select the vehicle and camera name.

• Finish Setup: Options to complete setup steps.
• Vault Storage: Options for available Vault subscriptions.
• Wi-Fi Connections: Shows wireless network connection status.

Safety and Security Settings

From the Garmin Drive app, select [gear icon], and select the vehicle and camera name.

• Parking Guard: Enables parking guard and adjusts its recording settings.

System Settings

From the Garmin Drive app, select [gear icon], and select the vehicle and camera name.

• Alert Volume: Adjusts volume of camera alerts.
• Language: Sets the device language.
• Units and Time: Adjusts date and time format.
• Voice Commands: Enables voice commands and sets the voice command language.
• Wake Word: Allows changing the voice control activation word.

Device Settings

From the Garmin Drive app, select [gear icon], and select the vehicle and camera name.

• About Device: Lists camera software version and unit ID.
• Check for Updates: Checks for software updates.
• Reassign to a Different Vehicle: Sets the vehicle used with the camera.
• Format SD Card: Formats the memory card, deleting all videos and data.
• Help: Opens the product support page.
• Restore: Resets device to factory defaults and unpairs from Garmin Drive app. Does not delete recorded videos. Format memory card to delete videos.
• Forget Device: Unpairs the device from the Garmin Drive app.

Camera Settings

Swipe the screen left to open the menu, and select Settings > Camera.

• Resolution: Adjusts video resolution.
• Incident Detection: Turns incident detection on/off and sets sensitivity (Event Detection, page 7).
• Record Audio: Turns audio recording on/off (Turning Audio Recording On or Off, page 7).
• Data Overlay: Adjusts the type of data displayed on videos.
• Temporary Videos: Determines when unsaved video footage is deleted. 'Delete When Full' deletes the oldest unsaved video when storage is full. 'Promptly Delete' continually deletes unsaved video older than three minutes and all unsaved video upon power off, useful for privacy. Travelapse videos cannot be recorded or viewed when 'Promptly Delete' is selected.
• Exposure Value: Sets light exposure value.
• Format Card: Formats the memory card, deleting all videos and data.

Video Resolution Settings

Set the resolution of recorded video. Resolution is width x height in pixels. FPS is frames per second. HDR combines multiple exposure levels for clarity in high contrast or low-light conditions. Higher resolution or FPS requires more memory card space.

Select Settings > Camera > Resolution.

Driver Assistance Settings

Swipe the screen left to open the menu, and select Settings > Driver Assistance.

• Camera Placement: Indicates device placement in the vehicle (Setting the Camera Placement, page 6).
• Forward Collision: Adjusts FCWS sensitivity.
• Go Alert: Turns go alert display and audible alerts on/off (Go Alert, page 13).
• Lane Departure: Adjusts lane boundary settings (Lane Departure Warning System, page 12).
• Garmin Red Light Cameras: Adjusts audible red light camera alerts.

Display and Volume Settings

Swipe the screen left to open the menu, and select Settings > Display & Volume.

• Volume: Adjusts camera alerts and video playback volume.
• Saving Video Tone: Turns audible tone on/off when a video is saved.
• Brightness: Adjusts viewfinder brightness. 'Auto Brightness' adjusts automatically based on ambient light.
• Color Mode: Selects day or night color mode. 'Auto' switches based on time of day.
• Display Timeout: Sets screen to stay on or turn off after one minute of idle time. Camera continues recording while screen is off, indicated by a red recording LED.

System Settings

Swipe the screen left to open the menu, and select Settings > System.

• Regulatory: Displays regulatory and compliance information.
• Units: Sets the unit of measure for distances.
• Time: Sets time and format for timestamps.
• Language: Sets all on-screen text to the selected language.
• About: Displays camera name, software version, unit ID, and other software feature information.
• Reset: Restores factory default settings and unpairs from Garmin Drive app. Does not delete recorded videos. Format memory card to delete videos.

Device Information

Status LED

The status LED indicates the device status.

Cleaning the Camera Lens

ℹ️ NOTICE: Avoid chemical cleaners and solvents that can damage plastic components.

Clean the camera lens regularly to improve recorded video quality.

• Wipe the lens with a non-scratch lens cloth, optionally dampened with isopropyl alcohol.
• Allow the lens to air dry.

Product Updates

Install Garmin Express (www.garmin.com/express) on your computer for easy access to services like software updates and product registration.

Setting Up Garmin Express

• Connect the device to your computer using a USB cable.
• Go to garmin.com/express.
• Follow the on-screen instructions.

Updating Your Device Using the Garmin Drive App

The Garmin Drive app notifies you of available software updates. You can also check manually.

• From the Garmin Drive app, select your camera.
• Select Settings > Check for Updates.
• Select Install Now. The update is sent to your device. You'll be notified when transfer is complete.
• Disconnect the device from power until it turns off.
• Connect the device to power. The device installs the update.

ℹ️ NOTE: Video is not recorded while the software is updating.

Garmin Support Center

Visit support.garmin.com for help, product manuals, FAQs, videos, and customer support.

Viewing E-Label Regulatory and Compliance Information

• From the settings menu, scroll to the bottom.
• Select System > Regulatory.

Restarting the Device

Hold the power button for 12 seconds to restart if the device stops functioning.

Specifications

Memory Card Specifications

The camera requires a memory card with these specifications. Visit garmin.com/dashcamcards for a list of recommended cards.

Appendix

Constant Power Cable

The Constant Power Cable is an always-on, 12V power adapter that connects to your vehicle's OBD II port. It can power up to two dash cameras for a selected time after you turn off your vehicle. For more information or to purchase, visit garmin.com.

Getting Started

⚠️ WARNING: Install the device securely to avoid interfering with vehicle operating controls (pedals, feet). Interference can cause accidents, property damage, or injury/death. If engine performance changes after connecting, disconnect immediately and contact Garmin support. Do not use if it affects engine performance or acceleration, as this could lead to accidents.

ℹ️ NOTICE: Check your vehicle's warranty provisions and owner's instructions regarding OBD II connector products that might void or alter your warranty. Garmin is not responsible for costs associated with vehicle repairs or voided warranties.

Installing the Device

• Set the time switch (Time Switch, page 24).
• Connect the device to the OBD II port in your vehicle. The OBD II port is usually under the dashboard on the driver's side; location may vary. Consult your vehicle owner's manual.
• Remove the protective film from one reclosable fastener and press it firmly onto the USB port end of the device for 10 seconds.
• Clean the vehicle mounting surface with water or alcohol and a lint-free cloth.
• Allow the surface to dry completely.
• Remove the protective film from a second reclosable fastener and press it firmly onto the vehicle mounting surface for 10 seconds.
• Press the reclosable fastener on the device against the fastener on the mounting surface to secure it.
• Connect the USB power cable from your Garmin Dash Cam device to a USB port on the Constant Power Cable device.

Time Switch

The time switch sets how long the device continues to supply power after you exit the vehicle. Power is reenabled when motion is detected or when you reenter and restart the vehicle.

Select the 10m option to have the device remain off until you reenter the vehicle.

Select the 24h or option to have the device operate continuously while the vehicle is parked.

Parking Mode Cable

The parking mode cable accessory connects the camera to constant power, allowing it to record video while the vehicle is parked and turned off. For more information or to purchase, visit garmin.com.

Parking Mode Cable Wiring Diagram

Diagram shows a small control box with three wires (Black, Yellow, Red) and connectors.

Connecting the Parking Mode Cable Accessory to Power

CAUTION: Garmin strongly recommends professional installation by an experienced installer. Incorrect wiring can damage the vehicle or battery and cause injury.

• Route the parking mode cable accessory to a location with constant power, switched power, and a ground connection.
• Connect the BATT wire to a constant power source.
• Connect the ACC wire to a switched power source.
• Connect the GND wire to the bare metal of the vehicle's chassis using an existing bolt or screw.
• Plug the parking mode cable accessory into the USB port on the camera.

Troubleshooting

My camera feels warm while it is operating

Garmin cameras are designed for automotive environments. It is normal for them to become warm or hot, remaining safe for use even in warm climates with full sun exposure. The device temperature can exceed the maximum operating ambient temperature and still be safe. Always follow device use and care instructions.

My memory card has degraded and needs to be replaced

All microSD cards wear out after many overwrites. Periodically formatting extends useful life and improves performance. As the dash camera records continuously, the memory card may need periodic replacement (Installing a Memory Card, page 2). The device detects memory card errors and alerts you when formatting or replacement is needed.

Take these actions to extend memory card life:

• Format the memory card at least once every six months (Formatting the Memory Card, page 2).
• If a memory card error alert appears, first try formatting the card (Formatting the Memory Card, page 2), then replace it if necessary (Installing a Memory Card, page 2).
• Turn off the device, or ensure Parking Guard is enabled when the vehicle is not in use.
• If not connected to an ignition-switched outlet, turn off the device when the vehicle is not in use to prevent unneeded recording.
• Use a memory card with a higher storage capacity. Higher-capacity cards are overwritten less frequently and usually last longer.
• Use a high-quality memory card with a speed rating of Class 10 or higher.
• Purchase replacement cards from a high-quality manufacturer and reputable vendor.

My video recordings are blurry

• Clean the camera lens (Cleaning the Camera Lens, page 21).
• Clean the windshield in front of the camera.
• Verify the windshield area in front of the camera is cleared by wipers, and move the device if necessary.

My video recordings are choppy or incomplete

• For best results, use a high-quality memory card with a speed rating of Class 10 or higher. Visit garmin.com/dashcamcards for recommended cards. A slower card may not record video quickly enough.
• If viewing videos on your smartphone via wireless connection, try a location with less interference or transfer videos to the smartphone (Editing and Exporting a Video, page 17).
• Transfer important recordings to a computer or smartphone, and format the memory card (Formatting the Memory Card, page 2).
• If a memory card error alert appears, first try formatting the card (Formatting the Memory Card, page 2), then replace it if necessary (Installing a Memory Card, page 2).
• Update your device to the latest software (Product Updates, page 21).