Can I Install a Rearview Camera on My Car by Myself?
3 Answers
A rearview camera can be installed by yourself as long as you have an LCD screen. However, attention must be paid to the wiring process, such as properly securing the connections with waterproof tape, hiding the video cables, and correctly handling the main unit's wiring. Relatively speaking, installing a rearview camera requires removing some interior panels for wiring, etc. Without some basic automotive knowledge, it is not recommended to install the rearview camera yourself. You can visit an auto beauty shop or accessory store and pay a small labor fee to have a professional install it. More relevant information is as follows: 1. Generally, the wiring for a rearview camera is relatively simple. You can directly plug it in according to the interface. The rearview camera wiring harness includes the display screen connection wire, reverse control wire (positive), and reverse light wiring harness (positive and negative). The reverse control wire is usually red and connects to the reverse light's positive and negative terminals to obtain the reverse gear signal, automatically switching to the rearview camera image when shifting into reverse. 2. Some cameras come with reverse lights. Simply ground the negative terminal and connect the positive terminal to the reverse light. After wiring, you can choose to fix the rearview camera. The most common method is to replace and fix it in the original license plate light position, achieving a damage-free installation while also obtaining a good field of view. It is important to note that when purchasing a rearview camera, remember to buy a license plate bracket light holder; otherwise, the camera cannot be securely installed.
I've modified my reversing camera several times myself and find it quite suitable for DIY. When buying a kit, make sure it's compatible with your car model—prices online generally range from tens to hundreds of RMB. Tools needed include a screwdriver, wire stripper, and multimeter. The steps involve removing the rear bumper to install the camera, wiring it to the trunk light for power, and mounting the display on the dashboard or rearview mirror. The key is to ensure the wiring isn't twisted, as this could cause a short circuit or affect battery life. I recommend adding some anti-vibration tape to prevent rattling. The whole process takes about two hours and saves at least 200 RMB in professional installation fees. However, beginners should watch YouTube tutorials first and test whether the camera angle is clear. For safety, ensure the camera is securely mounted and doesn't shake while reversing—this improves parking safety, especially in poor nighttime visibility.
I think installing a reverse camera by myself is a bit risky. If the wiring isn't done properly, it could easily blow a fuse or trigger fault codes, affecting driving safety; especially if the camera becomes loose while reversing, a misaligned angle might lead to collisions. Professional technicians have specialized tools and conduct comprehensive testing, minimizing unexpected risks. At my age, reliability is paramount: reverse cameras are crucial for parking safety and shouldn't be taken lightly. If the car is still under warranty, DIY modifications might void it, which isn't worth the risk. So unless you have experience with electronics, I recommend spending a bit more to have it installed at a shop—peace of mind and hassle-free. The cost may be higher, but it's a worthwhile investment.
