Who this is for
Owners of a supported model that still says Car Unrecognized: Dashcam Mode.
comma fourcomma 3X
openpilot community wikiFix a problemAdvanced
Car unrecognized, dashcam mode: how car identification works
Try the nightly-dev build first; if the car is still unknown, collect its firmware versions and submit them.
You need
- Your comma device installed in the car
- A GitHub account to submit versions
- comma connect to share a route if asked
In plain words
Why this guide matters
Your comma four or comma 3X reads firmware versions from the car to decide which model it is. When a version is new, openpilot shows Car Unrecognized and stays in dashcam mode. This guide shows how to test a newer build and get your firmware added so the car is recognised.
The short version
What the full guide walks you through
Check that the message is Car Unrecognized, not Check Connections.
Reinstall with commaai/nightly-dev and see if the car is found.
If not, gather the firmware versions the wiki describes.
Open a request or ask on Discord with the data.
Before you start
- Check Connections is a wiring problem, not an identification problem.
- The wiki may be shut down; docs.comma.ai has no replacement yet.
The full wiki page belongs to openpilot community wiki. Checked on September 10, 2026.
Quick answers
Questions people ask
Why does my supported car say Car Unrecognized?
Your car's firmware version is not in the list yet, often after a software update at the dealer. The car is supported, but this exact version is not known.
Is dashcam mode dangerous?
No; the device only records and does not steer or brake. Your car's own cruise control and lane keeping keep working as before.
Do I need to code to fix it?
Not at first; trying the nightly-dev build takes a few minutes and often works. Submitting firmware needs a GitHub account and some patience, or ask on Discord.
Related
More guides like this
All community guidesNot sure this is your path?
Check your exact car first, then choose software and hardware.
Photos: comma.ai. Guide content belongs to openpilot community wiki. CommaGuide is an independent guide and is not affiliated with comma.ai or openpilot community wiki.
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