Reversing Car Cameras: Hardwiring For Safety And Peace Of Mind

Rear-view cameras, also known as backup cameras, are now standard on many new car models. They are designed to assist drivers when reversing and parking by providing a clear view of the area behind the car, enhancing safety and reducing the risk of collisions. While some cars have them built-in, others can be fitted with aftermarket options. Installing a rear-view camera typically involves removing the rear license plate and interior trunk panel, drilling a small hole, and running the camera's power and video cord through it. The camera is then mounted on the rear of the vehicle, and the wires are hidden inside the car's bodywork and panels.

Choosing the right camera for your car

• Consider your budget: Dash cams range in price from around $100 to over $500. Decide how much you are willing to spend and look for cameras that fall within your budget. Keep in mind that more expensive models may offer higher-quality footage and additional features.
• Determine your needs: Think about why you want a dash cam and what features are most important to you. For example, do you want a camera with a high resolution for clear footage, or do you need a model with a wide field of view to capture more of the road? Perhaps you want a camera with multiple lenses for recording the interior of your car or the view behind you. By identifying your specific needs, you can narrow down your options.
• Research different models: Once you know your budget and requirements, start researching different dash cam models. Read reviews, compare specifications, and watch sample footage to get an idea of the image quality. Look for cameras that offer the features you need within your price range.
• Check compatibility: Not all dash cams will work with every car. Make sure the model you choose is compatible with your vehicle's make and model. Some cameras may require hardwiring to your car's fuse box, so be sure you're comfortable with the installation process or willing to pay a professional to do it for you.
• Consider additional features: Dash cams can come with a variety of extra features, such as GPS tracking, Wi-Fi connectivity, voice control, and parking surveillance modes. Decide which features are most important to you and look for cameras that offer them. Keep in mind that more features typically mean a higher price tag.
• Read user reviews: Before making your final decision, read reviews from other customers who have purchased and used the dash cam you're considering. This can give you valuable insights into the camera's performance, ease of use, and reliability. Pay attention to any common issues or problems mentioned in the reviews.
• Warranty and customer support: Look for a dash cam that comes with a warranty in case you encounter any issues. Also, consider the level of customer support offered by the manufacturer. You may want to choose a company that provides helpful resources and responsive assistance if you need help with your camera.

By following these tips and doing your research, you can choose the right camera for your car that meets your specific needs and budget.

Removing the rear license plate

Before beginning the installation process, you will need to remove your vehicle's rear license plate. This will give you access to the area where you will be mounting the rear-view camera. First, locate the license plate screws, which are typically positioned at the corners of the plate. Use the appropriate screwdriver to remove these screws—either a flathead or Phillips-head screwdriver, depending on your car's make and model. Once the screws are removed, you can carefully lift the license plate away from the vehicle. If your car has a license plate frame, you may need to remove this as well by unscrewing any additional fasteners. Take care not to scratch the paintwork during this process.

With the license plate removed, you should now have access to the area behind it. This is where you will be running the wiring for your rear-view camera and mounting the camera itself. If your vehicle has a trunk, you may need to open it to access this area. Some vehicles may also have a removable panel or trim piece that covers the license plate mounting area. If so, carefully pry or pop this piece off to access the space behind it. Ensure you don't damage the panel or your vehicle's exterior during this process.

Now, you will need to decide on the exact mounting location for your rear-view camera. The camera should be positioned in a way that provides a clear view behind the vehicle. Most cameras have adjustable angles, so you can fine-tune the viewing angle later. Many cameras come with mounting templates or guidelines to help you position the camera accurately. Use these guides to mark the drilling points for mounting the camera. It is crucial to ensure the camera is centered and aligned correctly before drilling any holes.

Before drilling, ensure you are aware of what's behind the marked drilling points. You don't want to accidentally drill into any electrical wiring or important vehicle components. Once you've confirmed it's safe to drill, use a drill bit appropriate for the material of your vehicle (metal or plastic). Carefully drill the marked holes, taking care not to apply too much pressure, which could damage the exterior. If your camera uses adhesive mounting, ensure the surface is clean and dry before adhering to the camera to the chosen location.

If your camera uses a screw-in mounting system, insert the provided screws into the freshly drilled holes to secure the camera in place. Tighten the screws by hand first and then use a screwdriver to ensure they are tight and secure. Ensure the camera is firmly attached and won't move or vibrate loose while driving. Once the camera is mounted, you can run the wiring harness through the trunk or interior of your vehicle to connect it to your display unit and power source.

By following these steps, you will have successfully removed your rear license plate and prepared the area for installing your new rear-view camera. Remember to take your time, plan the camera placement carefully, and ensure all connections are secure before replacing the license plate or closing the trunk. This will ensure a smooth installation process and enhance your rear visibility when reversing.

Drilling a hole for the camera cable

Drilling a hole for the rear-view camera cable is a crucial step in ensuring a seamless installation. Here's a detailed guide on how to approach this task:

Prepare the Necessary Tools and Materials:

Before you begin, gather the required tools and materials. You'll need a power drill equipped with a high-speed twist drill bit. The drill bit size will depend on the diameter of your camera cable, typically ranging from 1/8 to 1/4 inch (0.32 to 0.64 cm). Additionally, you'll need a rubber grommet that snugly fits the drilled hole and your camera cable.

Remove the Rear License Plate:

Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the screws holding the rear license plate in place. Set the screws aside in a safe place, as you'll need them later. With the license plate removed, you'll expose the license plate mounting area, which is where you'll drill the hole.

Identify the Cable Entry Point:

Hold the rear-view camera up to the license plate mounting area and determine the optimal position for the camera. Identify the spot where the camera's splitting cord will exit the car body. This is where you'll want to drill the hole for the cable.

Drill the Hole:

Using your power drill with the selected drill bit, carefully drill a hole in the identified location. Ensure the hole is large enough to accommodate the camera cable and grommet. Be cautious not to damage any surrounding components or wiring.

Install the Rubber Grommet:

Before running the camera cable through the hole, slide the rubber grommet onto the cable. The grommet should be positioned near the non-splitting end of the cable. This will help keep the cable in place and prevent water or debris from entering the vehicle.

Run the Camera Cable:

Now, carefully feed the camera cable through the drilled hole, from the outside of the car to the inside. Ensure the rubber grommet is securely lodged in the hole, creating a tight seal. This will help prevent water ingress and potential corrosion.

Secure and Reattach:

Once the cable is in place, give it a gentle tug to ensure it's secure. Reattach the rear license plate using the screws you set aside earlier. You can also apply a suitable sealant or silicone around the drilled hole to further protect against water intrusion and rust.

Remember to follow safety precautions when working with power tools and always be mindful of the vehicle's electrical system. If you're unsure about any part of the process, it's best to consult a professional or seek advice from experienced individuals.

Connecting the camera to the reverse light wires

To connect the camera to the reverse light wires, you will need to locate your car's reverse light wires, which are usually found in the hatch or trunk of your car. These wires connect your car's tail lights to the dashboard. Once you have located the reverse light wires, you will need to strip and separate them using a wire stripper or pliers. This will involve peeling back the rubber covering the wires and using a screwdriver to poke a hole through the middle of each exposed wire, separating the individual wire strands.

After you have stripped and separated the reverse light wires, you will need to fuse them with the camera wires. To do this, attach one of your bare wire cables to the camera cord's power connector. Then, poke the bare wires through the centre of the exposed reverse light wires and twist them together. Make sure to wrap the combined wires with electrical tape for safety. Ensure that you poke the positive (usually red) bare wire through the positive reverse light wire and the negative (usually black) bare wire through the negative reverse light wire.

Now, connect the camera's video cable to the front of the car. You may need to connect your RCA cable to the camera cord's video connector. Then, route the cable through your vehicle to the area by the fuse box. This may involve peeling back the automobile's headliner or side panels and pulling the cable through the exposed chamber. The exact process will depend on your vehicle model.

Finally, attach the monitor's power cable to a fuse tap and plug it into the fuse box. The fuse tap will convert the bare wire into a fuse signal. You can usually find the fuse box underneath the steering wheel.

Mounting the camera and monitor

Now that you've installed the camera cables and put in your monitor, it's time to mount the camera and monitor.

Firstly, connect your backup camera to its power and video cable. Return to the back of your car once you’ve installed the rear-view monitor and connected all the necessary camera cords. Close the trunk if necessary, then connect the backup camera to its power and video cable. Your camera’s power and video cable should be sticking out of the hole you drilled in the license plate mounting area.

Next, mount the camera to your license plate. If the camera attaches to the front of your license plate, fix it to the plate by following the manufacturer’s instructions. If the camera attaches to the back of your license plate, line the device up with the plate’s fastener holes and thread screws through them. In most cases, you can attach a rear-view camera to the back of your license plate using the screws you removed from the car earlier.

Now, reattach your license plate and trim panels. Using a Phillips-head screwdriver, put your rear license plate back on your vehicle. Once you’ve reattached it, give the license plate and backup camera firm tugs to make sure they’re secure. If you haven’t already, reattach your car’s interior trunk panel and other trim panels by pressing them back onto the vehicle.

If you’re installing an external monitor, first attach the device’s included mount to the windshield by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Then, hook your monitor onto the mount. Most external monitors use a suction mount, though others may come with a more complex mounting system.

For certain internal monitors, you’ll need to clip the new device onto your current rear-view mirror. For others, you’ll need to take off the mirror and slide your monitor into the pre-existing mirror mount. Some internal monitors may come with their own mounting system that you’ll have to attach to the car’s front windshield.

Finally, run the monitor’s splitter cable to the fuse box. If necessary, hook your monitor’s power and video cable into the device. Then, route the cable from the monitor to the area next to the fuse box. If you’d like, use a trim removal tool to pop out the headlining panel directly above your windshield. Then, run your cable through the exposed chamber.

Frequently asked questions