Can a retrofitted reversing camera pass the annual inspection?
3 Answers
Retrofitting a reversing camera can pass the annual inspection, as the reversing camera can be added later to compensate for its absence. Currently, retrofitted reversing cameras generally come in two forms: independent external screen type and embedded screen type. The independent external screen type displays the image captured by the rear camera on a separate small screen, which is simple in structure and easy to install. Notes for annual inspection: 1. Dim lights or modified xenon headlights will not pass the inspection; 2. The braking performance of the vehicle is one of the important indicators of vehicle safety and is a mandatory check item during the annual inspection; 3. Traffic violation records must be cleared before the annual inspection.
I've been driving for over 20 years. Two years ago, I installed a reversing camera on my old car, and it passed the annual inspection without any issues. The key is proper installation without tampering with the original wiring—for example, securing the power cables properly to avoid short circuits or leakage. The annual inspection mainly checks safety items like brakes, lights, and emissions. The camera is just an auxiliary device, and as long as it doesn't affect core functions, it generally passes. A friend of mine tried to save money by installing it himself, but faulty wiring caused the inspection lights to malfunction, delaying the process and requiring repairs. So, it's essential to have it installed by a professional shop and keep the receipt. Requirements may vary by region, so it's wise to call the local inspection station in advance. Choosing a compact camera that doesn't obstruct the license plate is more reliable. Overall, adding this feature is quite practical—it makes parking much safer, and as long as you follow the rules, there shouldn't be any problems.
As a car enthusiast who loves tinkering with vehicles, I installed a rearview camera last year mainly to make reversing easier. Before the annual inspection, I was worried it might cause issues, but after consulting the inspection station, I learned that as long as the installation doesn't affect the safety systems—such as not modifying the car body or original wiring harness—and uses the OBD port for a direct plug-in, it shouldn't cause any trouble. Nowadays, many new cars come with this feature as standard, and aftermarket installations with compliant products are not considered violations. The annual inspection primarily focuses on mechanical safety, exhaust emissions, etc., and the camera isn't a mandatory inspection item. However, messy wiring could trigger false fault codes and lead to a failed inspection. It's recommended to choose branded products and have them installed by professionals. After installation, test the camera's clarity and stability yourself. The cost ranges from a few hundred to over a thousand yuan, but with proper installation, it provides an ultra-wide field of view when parking and helps reduce blind-spot accidents, making it a very cost-effective upgrade.
