Getting your Rexing V1-4K dash cam up and running smoothly is easier than you think, and knowing all its ins and outs can seriously boost your driving confidence. Right out of the box, you’re looking at a device designed to give you peace of mind, capturing those unexpected moments on the road in stunning clarity. We’re not just talking about basic recording here. we’re into everything from setting it up for the first time to really nailing those advanced features like Wi-Fi connectivity, parking monitor, and even understanding what those little icons mean. By the end of this guide, you’ll be using your Rexing V1-4K like a pro, making sure you’re always covered, no matter what your daily commute throws at you.
Understanding Your Rexing V1-4K: A Quick Tour
Before we even think about mounting this bad boy, let’s get acquainted with the camera itself. Knowing where everything is will make setup a breeze.
What’s in the Box?
When you first unbox your Rexing V1-4K, you’ll typically find a few key items. Usually, you’re getting the Rexing V1-4K dash cam itself, a car charger often a 12ft cable, which is super helpful for routing, a 3M adhesive mount, a USB cable for data transfer, a quick guide or user manual, and sometimes even a CPL filter to reduce glare. Make sure you check for all these components before you get started.
Camera Overview & Buttons
The V1-4K has a pretty straightforward layout, but it’s good to know what each button does.
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- Micro SD Card Slot: This is where your memory card goes. It’s absolutely essential for recording, so don’t forget it!
- Power Button: Press and hold to manually turn the device on or off. A quick press can often turn the screen on/off while recording.
- Reset Button: A tiny button, usually recessed, for those moments when things just aren’t cooperating. You’ll need a paperclip or a pin to press it.
- Menu Button: This is your gateway to settings. Press it once for mode-specific settings like video resolution, and twice for the main System Settings.
- Mode Button: Use this to switch between video recording, photo mode, and playback.
- REC Record Button: Starts and stops recording. Also used as a navigation button in menus.
- OK Confirm Button: Confirms your selections in the menu. During recording, you can press it to manually lock the current video clip, protecting it from being overwritten.
- MIC Button: Toggles audio recording on and off. It also doubles as a navigation button in menus.
- Mini-USB Port: For connecting the car charger and for data transfer to a computer.
- GPS Logger Port: This is for the optional GPS logger, which lets you record speed and location data with your footage.
- Rear Camera Port: While the standard V1-4K is a single-channel dash cam, some related models like the Rexing V1P-4K have a rear camera port for dual-channel recording. Just so you know the difference!
- Lens Angle Adjustment: You can physically adjust the lens up or down on the mount to get the perfect viewing angle.
Powering Up and Basic Recording
Alright, let’s get this dash cam ready to roll and start protecting your journeys. Decoding the Rexing R4 Dash Cam: Your Ultimate Road Trip Companion
First Things First: The Memory Card
This step is absolutely critical, so don’t skip it!
- The Right Card: Your Rexing V1-4K needs a Class 10/UHS-1 or higher Micro SD memory card. For storage, it supports cards up to 512GB. Some older models or basic V1s might only support up to 256GB, so double-check if you have another Rexing model. Make sure you pick a high-endurance card. regular consumer-grade cards might not stand up to constant overwriting. Some users have reported issues with certain brands like SanDisk Ultra, so opting for something like Kingston Canvas Go Plus is often recommended.
- Insertion and Removal: Always make sure the device is powered down before you insert or remove the memory card. Gently push the card into the slot until you hear a satisfying click. If it’s tough to get in, try using a coin to push it in fully. To remove, gently push it in again, and it should spring right out.
- Crucial Step: Formatting: This is perhaps the most important part for smooth operation. You must format the memory card inside the camera before its first use, and periodically after that Rexing suggests at least once a month. This ensures the card is perfectly optimized for your dash cam.
- To format: Power on the camera, press REC to stop any recording. Then, press the MENU button twice to get to the System Setup Menu. Use the REC and MIC buttons to navigate to the “Format” setting, and press OK to confirm. Always back up any important data first!
Getting Power to Your Dash Cam
The V1-4K is designed for continuous power.
- Auto-Start Recording: The device automatically powers on and begins recording when it’s plugged into your car’s 12V accessory socket or cigarette lighter and receives a charge like when you start your vehicle. This is super convenient – just start your car and it handles the rest.
- Manual On/Off: If you need to turn it on manually, press and hold the POWER button until the welcome screen appears. To turn it off, hold the power button again until you see the goodbye screen, or simply disconnect it from power, and it’ll shut down after about three seconds.
- Capacitor vs. Battery: Here’s a cool fact about the V1-4K: it uses a supercapacitor instead of a traditional battery. This is fantastic because supercapacitors can handle extreme temperatures much better from -20 to 176°F or -20°C to 80°C. This means a longer lifespan and less risk of overheating, especially if your car sits in the sun a lot. However, it also means the dash cam relies on constant power. The internal “battery” is really just for emergency situations, like saving the current recording if power is suddenly lost, and isn’t meant for extended operation when unplugged maybe up to 15 minutes max. If you find your camera turning off a few seconds after disconnecting power, that’s why.
Installation: Getting Your Dash Cam in Place
with the power and memory sorted, let’s get your dash cam securely mounted.
Mounting the Camera
Proper placement is key to getting the best footage without obstructing your view. Rexing L4 Dash Cam: Your All-Around Road Guardian
- Clean Your Windshield: Seriously, don’t skip this. A clean, dry surface is essential for the adhesive to stick properly.
- Electrostatic Sticker Optional but Recommended: Some Rexing models come with an electrostatic sticker. Peel off its protective film and attach it to your windshield, ideally behind your rearview mirror. This helps protect your windshield from the adhesive and makes removal easier later.
- Attach the Mount: Place the 3M adhesive onto the mount plate. Make sure the T-interlock on the mount is oriented correctly, then firmly press the mount onto the windshield. Rexing recommends waiting at least 20 minutes after applying the mount before attaching the camera itself to ensure a strong bond.
- Positioning: Mount the camera in a spot that gives you an unobstructed view of the road but doesn’t block your driving visibility. Behind the rearview mirror is generally the sweet spot.
- Adjust the Lens: Once mounted, you can adjust the camera’s lens angle up or down to ensure you’re capturing the road properly, with a good balance of sky and hood.
Cable Management
Nobody likes messy cables! A neat installation is vital for safety and aesthetics.
- Routing the Power Cable: Connect the car charger cable to your dash cam. Then, carefully route the cable around the windscreen, tucking it neatly under the trim. You can guide it along the headliner, down the A-pillar, and then along the dashboard or kick plate to your 12V power outlet. Take your time here – a well-hidden cable looks professional and prevents distractions.
Hardwiring Optional but Recommended for Parking Mode
If you’re serious about protecting your car, especially when parked, you’ll want to consider hardwiring.
- Why Hardwire? The V1-4K’s parking monitor feature needs a Smart Hardwire Kit sold separately to function 24/7. Without it, the camera will simply turn off when your car does, as its supercapacitor isn’t meant for extended power-off operation. Hardwiring allows the dash cam to draw power directly from your car’s fuse box, enabling parking surveillance even when the engine is off.
- The Basics: The hardwire kit usually has three wires: one for constant power VCC, one for switched power ACC, and a ground wire. The constant power keeps the parking monitor active, while the switched power tells the camera when the car is on or off. You’ll typically use fuse taps to connect to appropriate fuses in your vehicle’s fuse box. If you’re not comfortable with automotive electrical work, it’s always best to have a professional do this for you.
Unlocking Features: Settings and Advanced Use
Your Rexing V1-4K is packed with features that go beyond just recording. Let’s dig into how to customize them.
Navigating the Menus
Accessing settings on the V1-4K is straightforward once you get the hang of it. Unpacking John Paul Rexing: Who Are We Really Talking About?
- Stop Recording: First, if the camera is recording you’ll see a red blinking light, press the REC button to stop it. You can’t access menus while recording.
- Mode Settings: Press the MENU button once to enter the settings for your current mode Video, Photo, or Playback.
- System Settings: Press the MENU button twice to enter the main System Settings menu. This is where you’ll find most of the customization options.
- Navigation: Use the REC Up and MIC Down buttons to scroll through options, and the OK button to confirm your selection.
Key Settings to Adjust
Let’s look at some important settings you’ll want to personalize.
- Video Resolution: The V1-4K is advertised to record in 4K 2160p. This gives you incredibly sharp footage, which is crucial for capturing details like license plates. While Rexing markets it as 4K, some enthusiasts note that for truly “native” 4K experiences, very high-end cameras might feel a touch different. Still, the V1-4K delivers excellent visual quality for its price point. You can also select lower resolutions if you want to save space on your memory card, though I’d usually recommend sticking to 4K if your card can handle it.
- Loop Recording: This is a core function of any dash cam. Your V1-4K records video in seamless loops, typically 1, 3, or 5 minutes long. When your memory card gets full, the camera automatically overwrites the oldest unlocked footage, ensuring continuous recording. This means you generally don’t have to manually delete files unless you want to.
- G-Sensor Gravity Sensing: This is your dash cam’s built-in “impact detector.” When it senses a sudden, significant movement – like a collision or heavy braking – it automatically locks the current video file, preventing it from being overwritten by loop recording. You can adjust its sensitivity Low, Medium, High in the settings. I usually recommend starting with a medium setting to avoid locking files from minor bumps, but you can always adjust it if you find too many or too few events are being locked. Locked videos are stored in a separate folder
\CARDV\MOVIE\RO. - Parking Monitor: This feature provides surveillance for your parked vehicle. To enable it for true 24/7 protection, you need the Smart Hardwire Kit. Once hardwired, the dash cam can either automatically turn on and record a short video e.g., 20 seconds if it detects vibration via the G-Sensor or capture frames for a continuous time-lapse video. You can set the “Gravity Sensing” to High sensitivity for Parking Mode Recording to ensure it triggers easily.
- Date/Time & Plate Number: Make sure your date and time are accurate – this is vital for any footage used as evidence. You can also enter your vehicle’s license plate number, which will then be stamped onto your videos. This is a neat little feature that adds an extra layer of identification to your recordings.
- Audio Recording: Your V1-4K can record audio inside your car. You can easily toggle this on or off using the MIC button during recording, or through the settings menu. Just be mindful of local regulations regarding audio recording.
Wi-Fi Connectivity with Rexing Connect App
The Rexing V1-4K comes with built-in Wi-Fi, allowing you to connect to your smartphone via the Rexing Connect app. This is super handy for viewing live footage, playing back recordings, and downloading files without pulling out the SD card.
- Download the App: Grab the “Rexing Connect” app from the App Store for iOS or Google Play Store for Android.
- Enable Wi-Fi on Dash Cam: With your dash cam powered on, hold down the REC button or sometimes the OK button, depending on the firmware for a few seconds to enable the Wi-Fi function. The dash cam’s screen will then display its Wi-Fi network name SSID and password. The default password is usually
12345678. - Connect Your Phone: Go to your phone’s Wi-Fi settings and connect to the dash cam’s Wi-Fi network it’ll look something like “SSID: B50_XKXX”. Enter the password if prompted.
- Open the Rexing Connect App: Once your phone is connected to the dash cam’s Wi-Fi, open the Rexing Connect app. Tap “Connect” to enter the real-time video streaming page. You should now see a live view from your dash cam!
- Crucial Wi-Fi Tips Seriously, Read This!:
- Disable Cellular Data/Wi-Fi Assist: For some mobile devices especially iPhones, where it’s called Wi-Fi Assist, or Androids with “Switch to Mobile Data” features, you might need to turn off your cellular data or “Wi-Fi Assist” while connecting to the dash cam. If you don’t, your phone might try to use its cellular connection instead of the dash cam’s Wi-Fi, which prevents the app from connecting. This is a common troubleshooting step that often solves connection issues.
- Allow Location Services: The Rexing app might also require access to your phone’s location services to connect properly. Give it permission!
- Refresh the App: Sometimes, after connecting to the Wi-Fi, you might need to close and reopen the Rexing Connect app to get it to refresh and properly connect to the camera’s live view.
- Speed Expectations: While Wi-Fi is super convenient, it’s worth noting that transfer speeds for large 4K video files can sometimes be a bit slow via Wi-Fi. If you need to download a lot of footage quickly, pulling the SD card and using a computer is often faster.
GPS Logger Optional
If you have the optional GPS logger connected to your V1-4K, it’s a powerful tool.
- Records Data: When connected, your dash cam will record your vehicle’s speed and location as you drive.
- Playback Software: You can access this information during playback using Rexing’s specialized GPS Video player software available for Windows and Mac on rexingusa.com. It’ll show your route on a map, speed, and other details alongside your video.
- Setting Speed Unit: You can choose your preferred speed unit e.g., MPH or KM/H in the System Settings menu. Once a GPS signal is found, the GPS icon on your screen will typically turn from blue to green.
Playback and File Management
So you’ve captured some footage, now how do you view it and manage your files? Rexing Manhattan Beach: A Personal Journey to Coastal Bliss with Jonpaul Rexing’s Family
On the Dash Cam
- Entering Playback Mode: If the camera is recording, press REC to stop. Then, press the MODE button to toggle to Playback Mode.
- Navigating & Playing: Use the REC and MIC buttons to scroll through your videos. Press OK to play a selected video. You can use OK to pause, MIC to fast-forward, and REC to rewind during playback.
On a Computer
This is often the best way to review footage on a larger screen.
- Using an SD Card Adapter: The simplest method is to power down your dash cam, remove the Micro SD card, insert it into an SD card adapter, and then plug that into your computer. Your computer will treat it like any other storage device.
- Connecting Directly: You can also connect the dash cam directly to your computer using the supplied USB to Mini-USB cable. After the device powers up, you might need to press the OK button to select “Mass Storage” mode on the camera’s screen.
- File Location: Once connected, navigate to the device drive on your computer. Your videos are typically stored in the
\CARDV\MOVIEfolder. Locked videos, important event recordings, will be in a subfolder like\CARDV\MOVIE\RO.
Protecting Files
You definitely don’t want crucial footage getting accidentally deleted or overwritten.
- Manual Locking: While recording, simply press the OK button to manually lock the current video clip. This ensures that when the memory card fills up, this specific file won’t be deleted by loop recording.
- G-Sensor Auto-Lock: As mentioned, the G-sensor automatically locks files when an impact is detected.
- Viewing Locked Files: These locked videos will be in their own special folder
\CARDV\MOVIE\ROon your SD card, safe from the loop recording cycle. Remember, you’ll need to manually delete them or format the card if you want to clear them out.
Troubleshooting Common Rexing V1-4K Issues
Even the best tech can sometimes be a bit finicky. Here are some common problems and how to tackle them.
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- Check Connections: Make sure the power cable is securely plugged into both the dash cam and your car’s 12V outlet.
- Car Outlet Function: Confirm your car’s 12V outlet is working. Try plugging in something else to test it.
- Power Source: If the camera’s supercapacitor is completely drained, it might take a few minutes to show signs of life after connecting to power. Remember, it needs constant power to operate, and the internal component is just for emergencies.
- Different Cable/Source: Try a different car charger or USB cable, or even a different 12V outlet, if available.
- Firmware: A firmware issue can sometimes cause power-on problems.
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SD Card Errors / Stops Recording:
- Format is Key: If you’re seeing “SD card error” messages or the camera stops recording after a few minutes, the first thing to do is format the card within the camera.
- High-Endurance Card: Ensure you’re using a high-endurance, Class 10/UHS-1 or higher Micro SD card from a reputable brand. Cheaper, standard cards aren’t designed for the continuous read/write cycles of a dash cam and can quickly fail. Some users have found that certain SanDisk Ultra cards are unreliable with Rexing cameras. opting for cards like Kingston Canvas Go Plus is often a better bet.
- Loop Recording: Double-check that Loop Recording is enabled in your settings.
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Blurry or Unclear Video Footage:
- Clean the Lens: This sounds simple, but a dirty lens is a huge culprit! Use a soft, dry cloth to gently clean the camera lens.
- Protective Film: Make sure you’ve removed any protective film from the lens.
- CPL Filter: If you’re using a CPL Circular Polarizing Lens filter, ensure it’s properly installed and adjusted. Sometimes, it can be rotated to optimize glare reduction, and improper adjustment can affect clarity.
- Windshield Cleanliness: Any film, haze, or grime on your windshield can severely degrade video quality, especially at night or in challenging lighting.
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Parking Monitor Isn’t Working:
- Hardwire Kit Required: Remember, the parking monitor requires a Smart Hardwire Kit for 24/7 operation. Without it, the camera will simply power off with your car.
- Installation: Ensure the hardwire kit is correctly installed, with the constant power VCC and switched power ACC wires connected to the appropriate fuse slots.
- Sensitivity: Check the G-Sensor sensitivity settings for the parking mode. If it’s too low, it might not trigger from minor vibrations.
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Wi-Fi Connection Issues or Slow Transfer Speeds:
- Phone Settings: As we covered, disable Wi-Fi Assist iOS or “Switch to Mobile Data” Android on your phone. Also, ensure the Rexing Connect app has location services permissions.
- Restart Everything: Try restarting both your dash cam and your mobile device.
- Reinstall App: Sometimes, simply reinstalling the Rexing Connect app can resolve glitches.
- Interference: Physically move to another location, as there might be Wi-Fi interference in your current spot.
- Slow Transfers: While Wi-Fi is convenient, it’s a common complaint that transferring large 4K files over the Rexing app can be slow. For faster transfers, removing the SD card and connecting it directly to a computer is usually the way to go.
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- GPS Logger Connected: Make sure your optional GPS logger is securely connected to the dash cam.
- Signal Acquisition: Give the dash cam a few minutes to acquire a GPS signal after it’s powered on. The GPS icon on the screen should turn from blue to green once a signal is found. If it stays blue, try moving the car to an open area without overhead obstructions.
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Firmware Updates:
- Only If Necessary: Rexing generally recommends updating firmware only if you’re experiencing specific issues with your camera.
- Official Sources: Always download firmware updates directly from the official RexingUSA website for your specific V1-4K model. Installing incorrect or outdated firmware can potentially damage your device, sometimes making it unusable. Follow the instructions carefully!
Maintenance Tips
A little care goes a long way in ensuring your Rexing V1-4K keeps performing at its best.
- Regular SD Card Formatting: I can’t stress this enough – format your memory card at least once a month directly within the camera. This helps prevent data corruption and ensures stable, reliable recording over time.
- Clean the Lens: Periodically wipe the camera lens with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and smudges. Avoid harsh chemicals that could scratch the lens.
- Temperature Management: While the supercapacitor is fantastic for extreme temperatures, it’s still a good idea to avoid prolonged, direct exposure to harsh sunlight when parked for long periods. Your dash cam is built tough, but extreme heat can still affect its lifespan.
- Check Connections: Every now and then, just give your power cable and mount a quick check to ensure everything is still securely in place.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of Micro SD card should I use with my Rexing V1-4K?
You should use a Class 10/UHS-1 or higher Micro SD memory card, with a maximum capacity of 512GB. It’s crucial to choose a high-endurance card from a reputable brand, as these are designed for the continuous read/write cycles of a dash cam. Some standard cards, like certain SanDisk Ultra models, might not be as reliable for this purpose. How to Charge Your Tesla with a J1772 Adapter (And Why You’ll Love It!)
How do I enable the parking monitor feature on my Rexing V1-4K?
To enable the parking monitor for continuous 24/7 surveillance, you’ll need to purchase and install a Smart Hardwire Kit sold separately. This kit connects your dash cam directly to your car’s fuse box, providing constant power even when the engine is off. Once hardwired, you can enable the parking monitor in the camera’s settings, choosing between motion detection recording or time-lapse mode.
My Rexing V1-4K isn’t connecting to the Rexing Connect app. What should I do?
This is a common issue! First, make sure you’ve enabled Wi-Fi on your dash cam by holding the REC button. Then, on your phone, disable cellular data or “Wi-Fi Assist” on iOS, or “Switch to Mobile Data” on Android before attempting to connect to the dash cam’s Wi-Fi network. Also, ensure the Rexing Connect app has permissions for location services. If problems persist, try restarting both your phone and the dash cam, or reinstalling the app.
Why does my Rexing V1-4K keep turning off a few seconds after I disconnect it from power?
The Rexing V1-4K uses a supercapacitor instead of a traditional battery, which offers better heat resistance and longevity but means the camera relies on a constant power source. The small internal power supply is primarily for emergency situations, like saving the current recording if power is suddenly lost, not for extended operation when unplugged. It’s designed to be continuously connected to your car’s 12V power outlet while recording.
How often should I format my Micro SD card?
It’s highly recommended to format your Micro SD card directly within the camera at least once a month. This practice helps to maintain the card’s health, prevents data corruption, and ensures stable and reliable recording performance over time, especially with the continuous overwriting inherent in loop recording. Always back up any important footage before formatting.
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