What vehicles have event data recorders?
Sophia Koch
Updated on March 02, 2026
Almost all newer cars (an estimated 96%) come with an event data recorder installed. Your car's manual will most likely state whether your model contains an EDR, though it may not provide much detail about the device.
How do I know if my car has EDR?
First, you need to know if your car has an EDR. You will get this information from the owner's manual. The device looks like a small box, the size of an iPod. It's usually placed under the front row seats, most often under the driver's seat or the central console, which is in between the front row seats.Do all vehicles have a EDR?
Not all vehicles are equipped with EDRs. Most manufacturers have made the decision to install some EDR capabilities in their current vehicles. It is estimated that about 64% of the 2005 model year passenger vehicles have some EDR capability.When did cars get event data recorders?
First introduced by General Motors in basic form on air-bag-equipped models in the mid-1970s, EDRs were being used by various manufacturers in 64 percent of all new models by the 2005 model year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).Do all vehicles have black box event recorders?
Do All Cars Have Black Boxes. The answer is yes and no. While older vehicles will not include a black box, in 2014, they became mandatory in all new vehicles. Additionally, more than 95% of new cars from 2013 included a black box.Introduction to Event Data Recorders (EDR)
How do I know if my car has a black box?
Wondering if your car has a black box? The Harris Technical site lists the year, make and model of nearly every car that includes a black box. You can also check your car's manual. If you're buying a car from a dealership, they have to tell you if the car has a black box.Which cars have black boxes installed?
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has been using them to collect car accident data since early in the 2000s. If your car is from 2013 or later, you are almost guaranteed to have a black box. Less than 5 percent of new cars came without one in 2013, and they are mandated in all new vehicles since 2014.Does an EDR record if the car is off?
Can EDRs record if the vehicle is turned off? No. EDRs can only record when power is applied. Powering of the EDR requires that battery power is available and the ignition is in the “on” position.How far back does an EDR record?
EDRs may record:vehicle dynamics information and system status for about 5 seconds before a crash. certain driver inputs for about 5 seconds before a crash. vehicle crash severity signature.