Do You Still Need to Install a Parking Sensor When You Have a Rearview Camera?

[McAvery]

You still need to install a parking sensor when you have a rearview camera. The rearview camera can only display images within a fixed range, while the parking sensor can detect a larger area. When reversing the vehicle, it enhances safety, and the parking sensor will emit an audible alert when encountering obstacles. The introduction to parking sensors is as follows: Principle of Parking Sensors: Parking sensors emit ultrasonic waves through ultrasonic sensors. These waves reflect back after hitting an obstacle and are received by the ultrasonic sensors. The controller then calculates the distance to the obstacle based on the time taken for the ultrasonic waves to be emitted and returned, finally alerting the driver with a rapid beep from the buzzer. Main Functions of Parking Sensors: Accurately measure the distance between the rear of the car and the nearest obstacle; emit a rapid warning sound when reversing to the limit distance to remind the driver to brake; repeatedly emit voice warnings to alert pedestrians.

[SanSkylar]

I just got my driver's license not long ago. When I was learning to drive, my instructor emphasized that safety comes first, so I installed a reversing camera first. I found it quite convenient as it allowed me to see the situation behind the car intuitively. However, one night while reversing, the camera screen was a bit dark, and I couldn't clearly see a small step behind the car. Luckily, even though I hadn't installed the reversing radar yet, it alerted me and I narrowly avoided an accident. Later, I decided to add a reversing radar, which warns me of obstacle distances through sound alerts, especially useful in poor visibility conditions. If only the camera is installed, it helps judge the overall environment, but the radar can detect low objects like children's toys or animals, preventing blind spot accidents. I think installing both is better. Although it costs a bit more, driving safely is no small matter—the more safety systems, the more peace of mind, to avoid regrets.

[Russell]

I've been driving for nearly twenty years and have used both rearview cameras and parking sensors. From my personal experience, it's best to install both. The rearview camera displays the rear view, allowing you to see the position of pillars or walls, but it can be ineffective in situations like a rain-blurred lens or poor visibility at night. Parking sensors rely on sensors to emit warning sounds, providing real-time alerts for nearby obstacles, which compensates for the camera's shortcomings. This is especially useful for vehicles with high trunks or limited rear visibility. While installing only a camera may save some money, adding sensors provides redundant safety, particularly in environments like underground mall parking lots. The dual protection reduces the risk of scratches. My own car has both installed, and now reversing is smoother and more worry-free.

[MacAyla]

From a technical perspective, the reversing camera captures real-time video to help visualize the rear environment, but it is prone to malfunction in low light or when dirty. The parking radar uses ultrasonic waves to detect obstacle distances and provides audio warnings for potential hazards. Both systems have their advantages: the camera offers visual information, while the radar provides auditory feedback. Installing both can cover more scenarios—for instance, the radar remains effective when the camera image is unclear. Of course, if you only reverse in open areas, the camera alone may suffice. However, considering the safety differences, I recommend combining both to optimize the driving experience.