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microSD Memory Card Compatibility for Automotive Devices with a Built-In Dash Camera

Automotive, camper, recreational vehicle (RV), and trucking GPS navigators with a built-in dash camera require a microSD memory card to record video because the device does not have internal memory for storing video files.  This includes:

Automotive GPS Navigators:

  • Garmin DriveAssist™ 50 GPS navigator with camera

  • Garmin DriveAssist™ 51 LMT-S GPS navigator with camera

  • Garmin DriveAssist™ 51 LMTHD GPS navigator with camera

  • Garmin DriveCam™ 76 GPS navigator with camera

  • nüviCam™ LMTHD GPS navigator with camera

Camper and RV GPS Navigators

  • Camper 785 & Traffic caravan and motorhome sat nav with camera

  • CamperCam 795 motorhome sat nav with camera

  • RV 785 & Traffic RV navigator with camera

  • RVcam 795 RV navigator with camera

Trucking GPS Navigators

  • dēzlCam™ LMTHD GPS navigator with camera

  • dēzlCam™ 785 LMT-S GPS navigator with camera

  • dēzlCam™ LGV710 GPS navigator with camera

  • dēzlCam™ LGV725 GPS navigator with camera

  • dēzlCam™ OTR710 GPS navigator with camera

  • dēzlCam™ OTR725 GPS navigator with camera


Recommended microSD Memory Cards:

When choosing a memory card, select one specifically designed for dash cams. These cards offer greater endurance and can withstand continuous read-write cycles. Additionally, they are engineered to handle the extreme temperatures and vibrations commonly encountered in a vehicle.

NOTE: To prevent damage to the slot, always use authentic microSD cards that meet the thickness specification of 0.7mm ± 0.1mm.


Memory cards that may serve this purpose include those listed below. Before making a decision, it’s advisable to examine the manufacturer’s specifications and warranty to ensure that the product aligns with your intended purpose.

BrandFamily
ADATAHigh Endurance
Samsung Pro Endurance
SanDisk

High Endurance

Max Endurance

TranscendHigh Endurance

 What Makes Memory Cards Dash Cam-Ready?

  • High Endurance NAND: Designed to withstand constant overwriting.
  • Temperature Resistance: Operate reliably in extreme heat and cold—ideal for windshield-mounted devices.
  • Loop Recording Support: Built to handle continuous loop recording without corruption.
  • Manufacturer Warranty: Coverage explicitly includes dash cam usage, unlike standard consumer cards which may void warranty under such conditions.

Keep in mind that if a memory card is used in a way that is not recommended by its manufacturer without being specifically designed for it, such as use in a high-endurance environment like a dash cam, the device may not work as expected and the card's manufacturer's warranty might not cover any resulting failure or replacement.


microSD Card Specifications:


Minimum CapacityMaximum CapacityCard TypesSpeed Class
8 GB512 GBmicroSD, microSDHC, microSDXCClass 10 (or faster) is required

When choosing a microSD memory card, keep in mind that higher capacity cards can store more video before being overwritten.  For example, if the dash camera is is set to record at 1080p resolution, a 16 GB card has a maximum video recording time of 2.1 hours, while a 256 GB card has a maximum video recording time of 33.8 hours.  See Camera Specifications for Automotive Devices with a Built-In Dash Camera for more information.

You may wish to keep an extra microSD memory card in your glove box. In the event of an important incident, it's a good idea to swap out the card to ensure both saved and unsaved video footage is protected until you can review it. It also allows you to have a backup if your main card fails.

microSD cards can be purchased from Garmin or other retailers.  

microSD cards wear out after they are overwritten a large number of times.

  • Your device detects microSD memory card errors automatically and alerts you when it is time to format or replace your card.

To Extend the Useful Life of Your microSD Card, Garmin Recommends:

  • Back up saved footage and format the memory card at least once every 6 months.

  • Replace the memory card periodically due to the dash camera recording continuously.

  • Turn off the device when your vehicle is not in use to prevent the dash camera from recording unneeded footage.

  • Use a microSD memory card with a higher storage capacity.

    • Higher-capacity memory cards are overwritten less frequently and will usually last longer.

  • Use a high-quality authentic memory card with a speed rating of class 10 or higher.

  • Purchase your replacement memory card from a high-quality manufacturer and a reputable vendor.


Recording Modes/Length, Video Resolutions, and File Sizes

See Camera Specifications for the Automotive Devices with a Built-In Dash Camera.

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