Why Is My Arlo Camera Not Recording Motion Events to Library

Problem Description

Your Arlo detects motion and sends notifications but no video clips appear in the library. Live view works and thumbnails appear in notifications but tapping shows nothing. Recordings are not being saved.

Why This Happens in Real Homes

This is subtly different from missing clips — here the camera is not even registering motion events in the activity feed. The camera PIR sensor might be completely unresponsive. On Arlo Pro 3 and Pro 4 models, the PIR sensor sits behind a small window below the camera lens. If that window gets covered by a spider web, mud dauber nest, or ice, the sensor is effectively blind. Clean the PIR window with a soft cloth. Also check that the motion sensitivity slider in the Arlo app is not set to the minimum — at very low sensitivity the camera only triggers on large, fast-moving objects and ignores people walking slowly. Set sensitivity to at least 70 percent for reliable person detection at distances up to 25 feet.

Symptoms

• Notifications arrive but no video in library
• Library empty for today
• Live view works but clips missing
• Thumbnail in notification no playback
• Some cameras record others do not
• Recording stopped suddenly

Recognize these? Here's what usually causes it.

Common Causes

• Arlo Secure subscription expired
• Mode set to notify only no recording
• SD card full or not detected
• SmartHub firmware outdated
• Armed mode missing record action
• Payment method declined

Tools & Requirements

Step-by-Step Solution

1

Check Subscription

In Arlo app go to Settings then Subscription. Verify Arlo Secure plan active with valid payment. Without subscription cameras detect motion but do not record to cloud.

2

Check Mode Rules

Go to Modes then select active mode like Armed. Tap the camera and verify Record Video is checked under actions. If only Push Notification is enabled the camera alerts but does not save footage.

3

Check Local Storage

If using SD card in SmartHub or camera check that card is detected in Settings. Format the card if full. Try a new card if not detected. Cards wear out after heavy continuous recording.

Needed for this step

4 Channel 360° Dash Cam Front Rear Inside & Lef...

This helps complete the fix you are currently reading.

$69.99

View Needed Item

4

Update SmartHub Firmware

Go to Settings then My Devices then SmartHub. Check for firmware update. Outdated firmware causes recording failures. Update takes 5 to 10 minutes during which cameras go offline briefly.

5

Reset Mode to Default

If rules are corrupted delete the current Armed mode and recreate it. Add each camera with Detect Motion trigger and Record Video plus Push Notification actions. Test by walking in front of camera.

Quick Solutions

Still having issues? This is usually the deeper cause below.

Need More Help? Arlo Support

Note: The contact information below connects you directly to Arlo's official customer support team, not Trunetto. They can help with warranty claims, device replacements, and advanced technical issues.

How Does Arlo Compare?

Before replacing your Arlo device, see how it stacks up against alternatives in our full comparison guides.