Does installing a 360-degree panoramic camera damage the car?

[VonArianna]

Installing a 360-degree panoramic camera may damage the car, with specific impacts including: 1. In the 360-degree panoramic camera system, two cameras need to be installed under the rearview mirrors, requiring drilling two mounting holes in the mirrors; 2. A large number of vehicle components need to be disassembled; 3. If the product quality is unqualified or the wiring layout is unreasonable, it may easily pose safety hazards. The 360-degree panoramic camera is a system that allows viewing a seamless, stitched real-time 360-degree panoramic image of the car's surroundings on the vehicle display screen, helping to understand blind spots around the vehicle. It is a parking assistance system that aids drivers in parking safely, also known as the panoramic parking camera system or the all-around parking image system.

[VonMargaret]

Installing a 360-degree panoramic camera generally won't directly damage the car. I've personally installed it twice myself, and I feel the key lies in the details during installation. Once when helping a friend install it, I found that the wiring connectors weren't secured properly. After starting the car, the camera suddenly lost power. Upon inspection, it turned out to be a short circuit caused by loose wires. Fortunately, we dealt with it in time and no components were burned. The entire process requires careful removal of interior panels and routing wires away from the car's original electrical components to prevent interference with the ECU. It's advisable to choose genuine brand accessories with voltage matching the factory standards to avoid overload from cheap products. Regular checks on camera stability are also important, especially in rainy southern areas where lenses can easily become blurry and affect usage. Once properly installed, it significantly improves parking safety, but DIY beginners are better off seeking professional help to avoid potential risks.

[DawsonLee]

From my experience, installing a 360-degree panoramic camera has minimal impact on the vehicle, but improper operation may cause minor issues. Last year at the auto shop, I saw a customer who attempted a DIY installation. They failed to protect the wiring harness during routing, which later caused the camera system to freeze unexpectedly. After troubleshooting, it turned out to be a short circuit from worn-out wiring that blew a fuse. This serves as a reminder to opt for professional installation: choose products compatible with the factory voltage, have the installation done by experienced technicians, and avoid interfering with airbag or brake wiring. The overall benefit lies in enhancing parking visibility and safety, reducing the likelihood of scratches. Long-term use hasn’t shown any damage to the vehicle body, though the cameras require periodic dust cleaning to ensure clear imaging.

[SanEzra]

From an economic perspective, installing a 360-degree panoramic camera may not damage the car and could even save money. I've done the math: the cost of the equipment is a few thousand yuan, but avoiding just one collision can save over ten thousand yuan in repair costs. If installed by a professional shop using OEM-approved parts, the process is unlikely to harm the vehicle. In contrast, low-cost services from roadside stalls often risk short circuits due to sloppy wiring. The cameras also require regular maintenance, such as cleaning the lenses, or visibility may be compromised in rainy conditions. In summary, proper installation won't cause permanent damage to the engine or electronic systems, making it a cost-effective investment for enhanced safety.