Backup Camera Buying Guide: Choosing and Installing a Rear Camera

A backup camera improves visibility behind your vehicle and makes parking easier. If your car did not come with one, an aftermarket system is a straightforward upgrade. Here is how to choose.

Decide How the Image Will Be Displayed

  • Existing aftermarket stereo: if your head unit has a camera input, you only need the camera and cable.
  • Rearview mirror monitor: a mirror with a built-in screen that clips over your existing mirror.
  • Standalone monitor: a small display mounted on the dash or windshield.

Wired or Wireless

  • Wired systems deliver the most stable signal but require routing a cable from the rear to the front of the vehicle.
  • Wireless systems simplify the cable run, though the camera still needs power, and signal interference is possible. Digital wireless typically performs better than analog.

Camera Type and Mounting

  1. License plate camera: mounts with the plate frame or bolts. Easy to install and a good default.
  2. Flush or lip-mount camera: fits into a drilled hole or a trunk lip for a cleaner look.
  3. Surface mount: attaches to the bumper or tailgate, common on trucks and RVs.

Features That Matter

  • Wide viewing angle (often 120 to 170 degrees) to see across the rear of the vehicle
  • Low-light performance for parking at night
  • Water and dust resistance, indicated by an IP rating such as IP67 or higher
  • Parking guidelines, ideally adjustable
  • Mirror or normal image option, so the display matches what you expect

Installation Overview

  1. Mount the camera and run the video cable toward the front of the vehicle, following trim panels.
  2. Connect the camera’s power wire to the reverse light circuit so it activates when you shift into reverse.
  3. Connect video to the stereo or monitor.
  4. Test before reassembling trim.

If you are not comfortable working with vehicle wiring, a professional installer can complete this quickly.

Bottom Line

Start with your display, then pick the camera type that suits your vehicle. A wired license plate camera with a wide viewing angle and a good weather rating is a dependable choice for most cars.