Memory Card Full
Nextbase Dash Cam
Severity: MinorWhat Does This Error Mean?
Nextbase 'Memory card full' (sometimes 'SD card full — please format') shows when loop recording stops because there's no space and no eligible files to overwrite.
Normally, dash cams overwrite the oldest unprotected clip when the card fills.
The error means too many clips are protected (G-sensor, manual save, parking events) for loop recording to free space.
The fix is to delete protected files or format the card.
Affected Models
- Nextbase 122HD, 222, 322GW
- Nextbase 422GW, 522GW, 622GW
- Nextbase 380GWX, 480GWX, 580GWX
- Nextbase IQ
Common Causes
- Too many files marked Protected by the G-sensor (rough roads, potholes)
- Parking mode events filled the protected partition
- Loop recording disabled in settings
- Recordings from previous trips never deleted
- User saved files with the manual record button, never cleared
How to Fix It
-
Review protected files.
Power on the camera.
Press the Menu button → Playback → look for protected files (usually marked with a lock icon or in a separate Protected folder).
If there are dozens, the G-sensor is too sensitive or you've been driving rough roads. -
Delete protected files you don't need.
Inside the Protected folder, select files individually and delete (or use 'Delete All Protected').
Save anything you want to keep first — copy via USB to a PC or pop the card out and copy to your phone.
Once protected files are gone, loop recording resumes overwriting the oldest unprotected clip. -
Lower the G-sensor sensitivity.
Menu → Setup → G-Sensor → set to Low (or Medium if Low feels too lax).
High sensitivity protects clips on every speed bump.
Most drivers find Low is enough — it still catches real impacts without flagging every pothole as an event. -
Disable Parking Mode if you don't use it.
Menu → Setup → Parking Mode → Off.
Parking mode files are auto-protected and can fill the card on a quiet street.
If you don't actively review parking footage, you don't need parking mode running. -
Format the card as a last resort.
Menu → Setup → Format SD Card.
This wipes everything — protected files, regular loops, settings stored on the card.
Save anything you want to keep first.
Format also clears any filesystem issues that might have stopped loop recording from working properly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does loop recording fail to overwrite if it's supposed to be automatic?
Loop recording only overwrites unprotected files.
Once 100% of the card is protected files, the loop has nothing to overwrite and stops, showing 'Memory card full'.
This is by design — dash cams refuse to delete protected events.
You have to delete them manually or accept they'll stay there forever.