What Is Parking Mode in a VIOFO Dash Cam?

Parking mode is a feature available in most modern VIOFO dash cams that allows the camera to keep monitoring and recording even when your car is turned off. This advanced surveillance mode helps protect your vehicle from hit-and-runs, vandalism, and theft—making it an essential feature for 24/7 car security.

Unlike standard driving recordings, parking mode is designed to capture incidents when you're not inside the vehicle, storing critical evidence that can help with insurance claims or police reports.

Why You Should Use VIOFO Parking Mode

Here are the top reasons why VIOFO's parking mode stands out:

• Continuous protection when your car is parked

• Buffered recording to capture moments before and after an incident

• Intelligent power-saving options

• Seamless switching based on vehicle ignition status

Types of Parking Mode in VIOFO Dash Cams

VIOFO offers three different parking mode options, each tailored for specific needs:

1. Auto Event Detection (with Buffered Recording)

• Automatically records when motion or impact is detected

• Saves footage from 15 seconds before to 30 seconds after an event

• Ideal for capturing sudden impacts or suspicious movement

2. Time Lapse Recording

• Records continuously at a reduced frame rate (1, 2, 3, 5, or 10 fps)

• Uses less power and storage space

• Best for extended parking periods and conserving battery

3. Low Bitrate Recording

• Continuous recording at lower video quality

• Maintains audio while reducing file size

• Suitable for those who prefer constant video coverage

Best Parking Mode for Power Efficiency

Based on testing with the VIOFO A229 Pro 3CH, we found that Time Lapse Recording at 10fps offers the best balance between power consumption and performance.

Pro Tip: Use Time Lapse mode for long-term parking, especially in areas with low activity.

How to Enable Parking Mode on a VIOFO Dash Cam

To activate parking mode on your VIOFO dash cam, go to the settings menu and toggle the parking mode option. But enabling it isn’t enough—you’ll also need a reliable power source while the vehicle is off.

Here are the top 3 methods to power your dash cam during parking mode:

1. Using a VIOFO Hardwire Kit

A VIOFO hardwire kit connects your dash cam directly to your vehicle’s fuse box for uninterrupted power.

Key Features:

• ACC detection allows automatic switching to parking mode

• Cleaner installation compared to cigarette adapters

• Helps prevent car battery drain with voltage protection

Wiring Overview:

• Red Wire: Constant power (battery)

• Yellow Wire: Ignition signal (ACC)

• Black Wire: Ground

Installation Guide: Check out our full tutorial: How to Hardwire a VIOFO Dash Cam.

2. Using an OBD-II Constant Power Cable

An OBD-II power cable is a plug-and-play solution that draws power from your vehicle’s diagnostic port.

• No need to modify wiring or access the fuse box

• Supports parking mode with VIOFO’s special OBD cables with ACC detection

• Ideal for leased or company cars

Without ACC detection, the dash cam will not switch to parking mode—it will continue regular recording.

Coming Soon: Official VIOFO OBD-II constant power cable!

3. Using a Dedicated Dash Cam Battery Pack

A battery pack supplies power independently from your car battery, ensuring long-term parking protection without draining your vehicle’s battery.

Key Benefits:

• Maintains battery health of your vehicle

• Supports ACC detection for automatic mode switching

• Excellent for frequent overnight parking

Note: If the dash cam is powered but detects no motion for 5 minutes, it will automatically enter parking mode.

VIOFO Hardwire Kit Compatibility Chart

Summary

• HK3: For older Mini-USB VIOFO dash cams like the A129 series and T130.

• HK4: For USB-C dash cams like the A139, A229, and A229 Pro.

• HK5: For newer compact models with USB-C, including the VIOFO VS1, WM1, T130X, A119 Mini, and A119 Mini 2.

Important Notes:

• Always verify the power port type of your dash cam before selecting a hardwire kit.

• All hardwire kits include ACC detection and voltage cut-off protection to prevent car battery drain.

• Using the incorrect hardwire kit can result in power or compatibility issues.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about VIOFO Parking Mode

1. What is parking mode in a VIOFO dash cam?
Parking mode is a feature that allows VIOFO dash cams to monitor and record activity around your vehicle even when the engine is off.

2. How do I enable parking mode on my VIOFO dash cam?
You can enable parking mode through the camera settings menu. To function properly when the vehicle is off, a constant power supply via a hardwire kit, OBD cable, or battery pack is required.

3. What’s the difference between Auto Event Detection, Time Lapse, and Low Bitrate recording?
Auto Event Detection records only when motion is detected; Time Lapse captures continuous footage at low frame rates; Low Bitrate records continuously at reduced quality to save space and power.

4. Which VIOFO parking mode is best for low power consumption?
Time Lapse mode is the most power-efficient and stable option, especially at 10fps.

5. Does parking mode drain my car battery?
Not if installed correctly. VIOFO hardwire kits have built-in low-voltage protection to prevent battery drain.

6. Can I use parking mode without hardwiring my dash cam?
Yes. You can use an OBD-II constant power cable or an external dash cam battery pack as alternatives to hardwiring.

7. What is buffered parking mode recording?
Buffered recording saves footage from a few seconds before and after an event is detected, ensuring the full context is captured.

8. Is parking mode supported on all VIOFO dash cams?
Most modern VIOFO models, like the A229 Pro, A139, T130, and A229 Plus, support parking mode. Always check your model’s specifications.

9. Can I use a regular power bank for parking mode?
No. Standard power banks are not designed for long-term dash cam use and do not support ACC detection or voltage regulation.

10. How long can VIOFO parking mode record while parked?
Recording duration depends on the power source and mode. With a hardwire kit, it can last until the voltage cutoff is reached. With a battery pack, it depends on the battery's capacity.

11. Can I use a power bank for parking mode?
Standard power banks are not recommended, as they may not supply stable voltage or support automatic switching modes.

12. Which VIOFO dash cams support parking mode?
A: All Viofo Dash Cam models support parking mode.

Final Thoughts: Is Parking Mode Worth It?

Absolutely. Parking mode transforms your dash cam from a driving tool into a full-time security device. Whether you choose Auto Event Detection, Time Lapse, or Low Bitrate Recording, VIOFO offers flexible solutions to suit your lifestyle.

With smart power options like hardwire kits, OBD cables, and battery packs, you can customize your parking mode setup for maximum efficiency and peace of mind.

Still have questions? Drop them in the comments below, or contact our support team for personalized recommendations.

Ready to upgrade? Shop VIOFO Dash Cams & Accessories