
The dash cam and rearview camera are not necessarily integrated as one unit; it primarily depends on the type of dash cam installed in the vehicle. There are two types of dash cams: one type is integrated with the rearview camera, displaying the rearview image on the dash cam screen when the vehicle is in reverse. The other type operates separately, making it more convenient to use both the dash cam and rearview camera without interference. Main functions of the dash cam: It helps protect the legal rights of the driver by providing video evidence. Recorded footage can be replayed to determine fault in traffic accidents. It effectively prevents fraudulent claims and roadside robberies, as the video from the dash cam can serve as evidence. It also records the route taken during road trips and any incidents that occur along the way. Functions of the rearview camera: It provides safety assistance for reversing vehicles. The rearview camera is also known as a parking assist system, reverse visual system, or onboard monitoring system. It is widely used across various vehicle types, including small, medium, and large vehicles, making it an excellent auxiliary configuration for vehicles.

I usually enjoy researching car accessories. There are both separate and combined versions of dash cams and reversing cameras. Earlier car models mostly had them installed separately - a dash cam mounted on the front windshield and a reversing camera installed separately near the trunk. Many newer car models now integrate them into one unit, with dual front and rear cameras displayed on a single screen. Like in my car, I've installed a 2-in-1 device that automatically switches to the rear camera view when reversing, while functioning as a dash cam during normal driving. However, wiring needs attention - the rear camera requires routing cables through the roof or door gaps to reach the rear. The integrated main unit usually needs connection to the reverse light power line for automatic view switching, making installation slightly more complex than separate devices.

As an enthusiast who often helps friends modify car equipment, a dash cam and a reversing camera can be integrated into one device. The common type on the market is a dual-lens dash cam, where the rear camera also serves as a reversing camera. The advantage of this all-in-one device is space-saving, as it can be mounted on the rearview mirror or integrated into the central control screen for display. The one I'm currently using is mounted on the interior rearview mirror, normally displaying the dash cam footage, and automatically switches to the rearview perspective when shifting into reverse. However, the waterproof performance of the rear camera is crucial—last time during rainy weather, the image was blurry when reversing, revealing that cheap products don't cut it. Standalone devices also have their benefits, such as professional reversing cameras with guiding lines, which are more user-friendly for beginners.

I recently researched this while helping my cousin choose car accessories. Dash cams and reversing cameras can be either standalone devices or integrated solutions. The current mainstream trend is to purchase dual-camera dash cams (front and rear), where the rear camera is triggered by the reverse light signal to display the reversing image. This requires only one installation and simpler wiring compared to installing two separate systems. My suggestion is to prioritize an integrated unit with night vision and anti-shake functions for the rear camera if the budget allows. However, for vehicles already equipped with a factory-installed reversing camera, just installing a front dash cam is sufficient. The key is to consider your specific usage needs – pay extra attention to camera resolution if you frequently drive at night.

Having worked in auto repair for over a decade, I often encounter customers asking about this. Actually, both approaches exist. Early car owners typically installed two separate devices: a dashcam in the front and a reversing camera in the rear. But this required dual systems and double the wiring, with many complaining about dashboard clutter. The current popular solution is rearview mirror streaming recorders, which feed the rear camera signal to the mirror screen, displaying real-time rear footage when reversing. Recently, my shop has been installing these all-in-one units, saving wiring labor costs while providing anti-glare mirrors. However, I must remind everyone that careful positioning of the rear camera is crucial, otherwise the reversing image angle may be suboptimal.


