Blue Camera Blues: Where's The Best Spot In Your Car?

The backup camera in a car is an essential tool that minimises blind spots and makes reversing easier. Some backup cameras have guidelines, which can be interpreted as follows: solid white lines indicate the direction in which the vehicle is driving towards; blue lines outside the white lines show that the car is heading in the right direction; a dotted black line helps to centre the vehicle in front of a trailer or camper; green lines represent objects farthest from the vehicle; and red lines represent objects nearest to the vehicle. Backup cameras can sometimes show a blue screen, which may be due to a loose connection or a failed camera.

Hyundai Sonata backup camera blue screen

If you're experiencing a blue screen with your Hyundai Sonata backup camera, there are a few potential causes and solutions to consider:

Firstly, it's important to determine if the camera is simply not displaying properly or if it has failed completely. Check if you can see the guidelines on the blue screen, indicating that the camera is functional but not displaying the feed correctly. If there is no feed at all, the camera may have failed or lost connection.

If your Hyundai Sonata backup camera is displaying a blue screen, there are several possible reasons for this issue:

• Loose connection: Remove the trunk lid cover and inspect the camera harness to ensure it is plugged in securely. A loose connection can cause the camera feed to cut out.
• Failed camera: If the camera is plugged in securely, it may have failed or the wire may have an open circuit. In this case, you would need to replace the camera. This is a common issue with the Sonata, and the part typically costs around $200, with one hour of labor required for replacement.
• AV wire issue: To check the AV wire for the camera, you will need proper diagnostic equipment. A qualified technician can perform an inspection to diagnose and resolve the issue without replacing unnecessary parts.

In some cases, a simple fix may resolve the blue screen issue. One suggestion is to pull the negative battery cable for about 10 minutes and then reconnect it. This has been known to resolve backup camera issues in some instances.

Additionally, it is worth checking if your warranty covers screen problems, as this may help offset the cost of repairs or replacement.

Interpreting backup camera lines

Backup cameras are essential driving tools that can be beneficial in many ways. They can help you reverse, minimise blind spots, and provide peace of mind. While most people use these cameras to get a clear view of what's behind them, they can also assist with parallel parking, gauging distance, and more.

• Understand the basic colour coding: The lines on your backup camera typically use a stoplight signalling system, with green meaning "go", yellow indicating caution, and red signalling "stop". This helps you gauge the distance between your car and any obstacles.
• Check your vehicle's manual: Refer to your car's manual to understand the scale of the lines on your camera. This will help you know how much space you have on each section of the display, especially when you're in the red zone.
• Dynamic parking lines: Many backup cameras have lines that move dynamically to provide parking guidance. These lines can help you align your vehicle with the desired parking space and avoid obstacles.
• Centre line: Some cameras, especially those on vehicles equipped for trailers, have a centre line that corresponds to the ball on your trailer hitch. This can assist with lining up your vehicle for towing a trailer.
• Practice makes perfect: Take some time to practice using your backup camera in an open area without obstacles. Notice how objects move in relation to the guide lines as you reverse. This will help you improve your spatial awareness and make reversing manoeuvres more intuitive.
• Adjust for different vehicles: If you drive multiple vehicles, remember that the guide lines may need to be adjusted for each vehicle's specific dimensions. Check if your vehicle's system allows for manual calibration, or use your judgment to estimate the width and length of the vehicle you're driving.
• Keep the camera clean: Regularly clean your backup camera lens to ensure clear and accurate images. Dirt, snow, and grime can build up on the lens, affecting the image quality and reliability of the camera.
• Multi-camera setup: For larger vehicles or those with multiple points that require alignment, consider a multi-camera setup. This can include cameras mounted on the sides of a trailer, providing a wider field of view and making it easier to navigate tight spots.

Troubleshooting a backup camera

If there is no display, the problem could be with the receiver/monitor, or the camera/transmitter. Power issues with the monitor can be checked by ensuring it is properly connected to a power source. If the monitor is powering on, check the antenna is connected and intact. If the monitor is functioning, check the camera for any physical damage or electronic faults.

If the issue is with image quality, wireless interference could be the cause. Wireless signals can be interrupted by other gadgets using the same frequencies, so disabling or removing other signal sources can help. Environmental factors such as dust, mud, and adverse weather conditions can also cause poor image quality. Cleaning the camera lens with a soft cloth can improve image quality.

If the backup camera is not working when the car is in reverse gear, the issue could be with the wiring system. Check the wiring is securely connected to the electronic system. Refer to your car model and camera manual to trace the wiring system and ensure all connections are secure.

If the camera is not recording images, check the settings to ensure the correct mode is selected, and that the internal memory is not full. Also, check the monitor is on and that power-saving mode is not enabled.

Most backup camera issues can be resolved through troubleshooting and simple fixes. However, for more complex problems, it is recommended to seek the help of technicians or professionals.

Installation of a backup camera

Installing a backup camera in your car can be done in a few simple steps. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:

Purchasing the Necessary Equipment:

Firstly, buy a mountable backup camera specifically designed for your vehicle's rear view. You can choose between an external monitor, which mounts onto your windshield, or an internal monitor, which either clips onto your current rear-view mirror or replaces it entirely. Additionally, purchase power and video cords if they don't come with your camera and monitor.

Installing the Camera Cables:

Remove your rear license plate and your trunk's interior panel to access the rear wiring chambers. Drill a small hole in the license plate mounting area, ensuring there are no obstructions, and feed your camera's power and video cable through this hole. Locate your car's reverse light wires, which connect the tail lights to the dashboard, and strip and separate them. Finally, fuse your camera wires with the reverse light wires by attaching the bare wire cables and wrapping them with electrical tape.

Putting in Your Monitor:

Connect your camera's video cable to the RCA cable and route it to the front of the car, usually by peeling back the automobile's headliner or side panels. For external monitors, attach the included mount to the windshield and hook the monitor onto it. For internal monitors, either clip the monitor onto your current rear-view mirror or install it onto the pre-existing mirror mount.

Mounting the Camera:

Connect your backup camera to its power and video cable, and mount the camera to your license plate by following the manufacturer's instructions. Reattach your license plate and trunk interior panel, and test the camera to ensure it works properly.

Tips and Tricks:

• Choose a rubber grommet that fits the drilled hole to keep the wire in place and prevent leaks.
• When locating the reverse light wires, consult your car's owner's manual for model-specific information.
• Always ensure your car is turned off when working with exposed wires for safety.
• If you encounter any issues with your backup camera, check for loose or improperly connected wires as they are a common cause of malfunctions.

Lines and colours vary

When using your car's backup camera, it's important to understand the meaning of the lines and colours displayed on the monitor. While the yellow lines and blue square are standard, the specific colours and line configurations may vary depending on your vehicle or backup camera model.

The yellow lines that you see on the screen are trajectory lines. These lines provide you with a visual representation of the trajectory of your vehicle when reversing. By turning the steering wheel, you can align these lines with the parking space, ensuring a smooth and accurate parking manoeuvre.

On the other hand, the blue square refers to distance. As you begin to reverse, the blue line will move towards the parking space, indicating that your car is heading in the right direction. Don't be alarmed if the blue line initially appears to be outside the white parking lines, as this does not mean that your car will collide with the adjacent vehicle. Continue backing up until the blue line is within the parking lines, guiding you to the perfect parking spot.

It's worth noting that some backup cameras may use different colours or line configurations to indicate trajectory and distance. This variation is dependent on the specific vehicle or camera model you are using. Therefore, it is always a good idea to refer to your vehicle's user manual or the backup camera's instructions to familiarise yourself with the specific line and colour meanings.

Additionally, it is important to remember that while these visual aids are incredibly useful, they should not replace your own judgement and driving skills. Always use your eyes, check your surroundings, and utilise your side mirrors in conjunction with the backup camera to ensure safe reversing and parking.

Frequently asked questions