Many car owners consider installing dashcams for added security and peace of mind. A common question that arises when setting up a dashcam is: Is The Obd2 Port Always Powered? Understanding your car’s power outlets is crucial for choosing the right way to keep your dashcam running, especially when parked.
OBD2 Port Power: What You Need to Know
The On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) port is primarily designed for vehicle diagnostics and emissions testing. While it does provide power, the OBD2 port is generally always powered in most modern vehicles. This constant power supply allows diagnostic tools to communicate with the car’s computer even when the ignition is off.
However, just because it’s powered doesn’t automatically make it the best choice for powering your dashcam, particularly for extended periods when the engine isn’t running.
Powering Your Dashcam: Cigarette Lighter vs. OBD2 Port
There are two main approaches to powering a dashcam in your car: using the cigarette lighter socket or utilizing the OBD2 port.
Cigarette Lighter Socket
Traditionally, the cigarette lighter socket (or accessory socket) has been the go-to power source for car accessories.
- Always Powered Socket: In some vehicles, the cigarette lighter socket is always hot, meaning it provides power even when the car is off.
- Switched Socket: In other cars, the cigarette lighter is only powered when the ignition is turned on.
If your cigarette lighter socket is always powered, it’s a convenient option, but you need to be mindful of battery drain if your dashcam records continuously.
OBD2 Port for Dashcam Power
Using an OBD2 port adapter to power your dashcam offers an alternative, especially if your cigarette lighter is not always powered or if you want a cleaner setup.
- Convenience: OBD2 adapters can be easily plugged in and often provide a USB port for dashcam connection.
- Constant Power: As mentioned, the OBD2 port is typically always powered, allowing for parking mode recording if your dashcam supports it.
Solutions for Different Power Scenarios
Depending on whether your cigarette lighter is always powered or not, and whether you choose to use it or the OBD2 port, here are practical solutions:
Scenario 1: Cigarette Lighter Always On
If your cigarette lighter is constantly powered, and you prefer to use it, consider these steps to prevent battery drain:
- Use a Male-to-Female Cigarette Lighter Adapter with Low Voltage Cutoff: Devices like the Koolatron “Battery Saver” can automatically cut off power to your dashcam if your car battery voltage drops too low (e.g., below 11.6 volts).
- Add a Cigarette Lighter to USB Adapter: Plug a high-quality cigarette lighter to USB adapter into the voltage cutoff adapter to power your dashcam.
- Heavy Duty Splitter (Optional): If you need to power other devices from your always-on cigarette lighter, use a heavy-duty splitter (rated at least 10 amps) with the voltage cutoff adapter in one port and other adapters in the remaining ports.
Scenario 2: Cigarette Lighter Only Powered When Engine is On
If your cigarette lighter only works when the engine is running, and you want parking mode for your dashcam, using an OBD2 power adapter becomes a more attractive option.
- OBD2 Power Adapter with Low Voltage Cutoff: Utilize an OBD2 power supply adapter that includes a low voltage cutoff switch for safety. These are readily available and inexpensive.
- Direct USB Connection (Alternative): For a cleaner setup when the engine is running, you can run a USB cable from your dashcam to a USB adapter plugged into the cigarette lighter socket (when the engine is on). Use the OBD2 adapter only when parked and needing continuous power.
Important Considerations
- Battery Drain: Always be mindful of potential battery drain when using always-on power sources for your dashcam, especially in parking mode. Low voltage cutoff devices are essential.
- OBD2 Port Power Capacity: The OBD2 port is designed to supply a limited amount of power (typically up to 4 amps). Dashcams usually consume 2 amps or less, so power should not be an issue.
- Easy Access: Remember that if you use an OBD2 port adapter, you can easily unplug it to use your OBD2 port for diagnostics when needed.
Conclusion
Understanding whether your OBD2 port is always powered is the first step in choosing the best power solution for your dashcam. While the OBD2 port is generally always hot and provides a convenient power source, especially for parking mode, it’s vital to use safety measures like low voltage cutoff switches to protect your car battery. Whether you choose the cigarette lighter socket or the OBD2 port, ensure you prioritize safe and reliable power delivery to your dashcam.
