The backup camera is part of the equipment in your car which helps with driving. The reversing or backup camera is not yet present on all vehicles, but you can equip your car with it yourself if you wish. We take stock in this article on everything you need to know about the reversing camera!
What is a reversing camera?
The reversing camera is a device present on certain vehicles that makes it possible to help drive. The reversing camera provides a view of what is happening behind your vehicle and thus facilitates reversing. If your car is not already equipped with a reversing camera, you can easily install one yourself. You will need to install a camera at the rear of your vehicle and a screen for the retransmission of images in the passenger compartment.
The reversing camera is not to be confused with the reversing radar which generally emits an audible signal to warn you when you are too close to an obstacle such as for example another car, a sidewalk or a pedestrian.
There are two types of rearview camera: wired rear view camera and wireless rear view camera. The wired camera is the safest solution because it works regardless of the connection or the weather, however, its installation is more complex. Conversely, the wireless camera is more practical to install but you run the risk of finding yourself without a reversing camera if the wifi signal is not optimal.
Which reversing camera to choose?
The choice of your reversing camera should be thought out in advance to avoid any unpleasant surprises when using it. Here are some tips to help you choose the right backup camera:
Ask yourself whether you are a DIY or not: as we explained to you just before, there are wired cameras and wireless cameras. If you’ve never tinkered with your car before, prefer a wireless system that’s much easier to install
What features do you need? Not all reversing cameras have the same possibilities. Always look at details like the angle of view, night mode… These details will make the difference when using your reversing camera and you may regret it if you do not think about it first.
Screen Size: Again, your backup camera screen is what you’re going to be looking at all the time. We, therefore, advise you to opt for a sufficiently large screen with a good resolution for your visual comfort.
How to install a reversing camera?
If you are a bit of a handyman, installing your rearview camera shouldn’t be a problem for you. We are going in this tutorial to explain step by step how to connect a wired backup camera.
Materials needed: a drill, a toolbox
Step 1: Install the camera and cables
To install your camera, start by disassembling your license plate then remove the panel located inside the trunk this will allow you to have access to the electrical box. You will then have to drill a small opening for the camera at the location of your license plate. Remember to make a hole large enough to pass the camera and the wires. Then place a rubber eyelet in the hole and pass the cables through the hole from the outside to the inside of your vehicle.
Step 2: Connect the cables
Always refer first to the user manual of your reversing camera. For your reversing camera to work, it needs to be supplied with electricity. Most of the time you will need to connect your camera to the power supply for your reversing lights. These cables are long enough to connect the reversing lights to the dashboard. Start by stripping the cables of your reversing lights using pliers provided for this purpose, then braid the cables with those of your camera. Always check that the positive cable of the lights is securely connected to the positive cable of the rearview camera.
Step 3: Connect the monitor
Pull the cables and route them to the front of your car at the fuse box. Then install your monitor, the procedure is different if you choose an internal monitor (to be installed on the interior mirror) or an external monitor (to be installed on the windshield). Then connect the monitor to the RCA cable. Then connect the monitor power cable using a fuse holder and then plug in the fuse holder.
Step 4: Connect the camera
Connect the rear view camera to the video cable and the power cable that come out of the hole you have previously drilled. Attach your reversing camera following the instructions in the user manual, then reassemble the license plate.
Your reversing camera is now installed!
How to test a reversing camera?
Your backup camera is now installed but you need to test it to verify that it is working properly? To simply check that your rear view camera is working, start by turning it on. If nothing happens, it means that the connections have probably been made incorrectly, you will have to start the procedure again, checking where the problem may come from. If the reversing camera turns on, the connections have been made correctly. You can now place an object behind your car and verify that the camera detects it. Also, take the opportunity to check the viewing angle and image quality.
What is the price of a reversing camera?
The price of a reversing camera varies greatly depending on the model and brand you choose. At a minimum, it takes around $60 for a first-price reversing camera and up to $500 for the most efficient models.
If you want to have your reversing camera installed by a professional, you will need to count between $50 and $400 depending on the model of your car and the difficulty of installation.
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