How to troubleshoot wi-fi issues on your dash cam
Dash Cam Wi-Fi Troubleshooting Guide
Dash Cam Wi-Fi Troubleshooting
Wi-Fi networks are usually a source of internet connectivity – but that’s not the case for dash cams. Unlike a regular Wi-Fi network signal that gives you internet access, Wi-Fi in dash cams only work to pair the dash cam and its dedicated smartphone app together. The Wi-Fi feature is a core component of many modern dash cams like Thinkware, BlackVue, and VIOFO.
Common Wi-Fi-Related Issues
While Wi-Fi makes for a reliable connection, there are times when it can cause issues, considering that it’s not a true Wi-Fi connection.
In this article, we will provide you with the possible answers on why you're having Wi-Fi related issues with your dash cam.
With many iPhones there is a wifi-assist feature found in the cellular data section of the iPhone settings, which can potentially cause this.
For Android Users, we’ve seen the setting called “Smart Network Switch” cause this.
The Basic One-Step Resolution: Airplane Mode
While cases may be different, there’s one solution that we usually recommend to solve common Wi-Fi connectivity problems: Airplane mode.
Airplane mode, sometimes called “flight mode”, is a setting on your smartphone that temporarily suspends Wi-Fi and other signals, even as the rest of the device remains fully functional. On some phones, Wi-Fi specifically will need to be turned back, so you can then connect to the camera Wi-Fi.
This is an excellent way to isolate the issue with your dash cam, and ensure that the issue is not the camera itself. While this solution will work temporarily, it is frequently not ideal as a permanent solution, needing to do it every time you connect. This setting working indicates that there is another setting in your phone that is causing the interference, not the camera.
Why can’t I connect to my dash cam’s Wi-Fi network?
There are many possibilities why your dash cam can’t connect to the Wi-Fi network, and below are the usual cases that we encounter:
1. The Wi-Fi isn’t turned on
We’re including this in the list because there are some cases where users can’t connect to the Wi-Fi… because the Wi-Fi networks are turned off. Before anything, make sure that the camera’s Wi-Fi is turned on, sometimes through a WiFi button, and that the Wi-Fi setting of your smartphone is on as well.
2. Out of wifi range
Another possibility is the distance between the devices. For most dash cam manufacturers, the range between the dash cam should not be farther than 10 meters for not to have connectivity issues. We recommend starting the connection right besides your camera, to eliminate any possible interference.
3. Incorrect Wi-Fi Password
When connecting to a Wi-Fi network, a network name and password will be required – which can be misspelled or might include a typo. Do note that the network connection information is case sensitive (uppercase and lowercase characters must be taken into account) and guarantees that the network encryption type is right depending on network security encryption. Different camera brands have different wifi password methods, such as Thinkware with a default password of 123456789, and BlackVue who often has the unqiue password written on the body of the unit.
To resolve this, double-check your dash cam's Wi-Fi settings over your computer to confirm you've entered the correct network name (SSID) and password.
4. Software/Firmware Issues
Outdated firmware on your dash cam may cause Wi-Fi connectivity issues, especially when your phone's version and firmware are updated, as we've seen occaisonal issues when switching over to a new iOs on iphone, for example.
To resolve this, please check for firmware updates from your dash cam manufacturer to ensure your dash cam is running the most recent version. Firmware updates are usually listed on the manufacturer's website, or on the smartphone app directly.
5. Unrecognized Wi-Fi network Error
In some cases, your phone will state an error when connecting to the dash cam wifi, stating it is an unrecognized wifi network.
This is because the dash cam Wi-Fi is not a true Wi-Fi network, and some phones will therefore reject the network altogether. Again, you cannot use the Wi-Fi from a dash cam to browse the internet, so it is important to differentiate between the camera’s Wi-Fi, and the type of Wi-Fi you can use to watch youtube with.
Setting your phone to airplane mode will frequently resolve this.
6. Corrupted/Faulty MicroSD Card
There’s also a chance that your micro SD card is preventing you from connecting to the Wi-Fi, by being faulty and impeding core functions. If you choose a low-grade micro SD card, this is more common, and due to Dash Cam's aggressive read/write cycles, it's SD cards normally last for an average of 1 year.
It's good practice to do a complete SD card format and install the most recent dash cams firmware. When formatting over the computer, if it states that your SD card is "Write-Protected" then that means the SD card is most likely corrupted and faulty.
If other buttons on your camera provide you with proper responses, and the camera otherwise appears to be working normally, then it’s likely not the SD card.
7. Required App Permissions
It's vital that your Dash Cam App is given full permissions to various key features of your phone to function properly.
Local Network, Photos, Cellular Data, Location, and Bluetooth specifically are core functions that must be enabled for basic use(depending on your camera model). To resolve this issue, go to your settings and update the permissions granted.
Sometimes, these permissions are asked upon opening the app for the first time, and denying them can lead to issues like this. This is especially applicable to Android models, as many models actually automatically relinquish permissions after a few months of inactivity, depending on the android model.
In extreme situations, uninstalling and re-installing the app will help resolve this, and have the app ask for permissions all over again.
Contact Us
At BlackboxMyCar, we're committed to ensuring your complete satisfaction and safety on the road. If you have any questions or need assistance with our products and services, our dedicated team is ready to provide you with expert support. Whether it’s about dash cam features, installation, or general inquiries, we’re here to offer the answers you need.
Reach out to us at info@blackboxmycar.com or directly through our contact team, or call us toll-free at 1 (888) 978 6560. Your peace of mind is our top priority, and we look forward to assisting you!