How to Wire a Car Rearview Camera?
2 Answers
Car rearview camera wiring steps are as follows: 1. Insert the original accessory camera wiring harness into the rear license plate light hole, then snap it in place. 2. Remove the trunk liner, pull out the waterproof wiring grommet, use a pull wire to draw the camera harness into the trunk, guide the camera harness and data connector to the grommet wiring hole, and finally reinstall the waterproof grommet. 3. Remove the left decorative panel of the trunk, connect the combined power/data extension cable to the camera harness, and route it along the original vehicle wiring harness from the rear trim panel. 4. Peel back the door seal on the left side of the rear seat, guide the wiring into the rear cabin, and pull out both the combined power/data plug and remaining extension cable. 5. Restore the trunk, tuck the extension cable into the plastic panel gap along the door seal until reaching the driver's side door edge. 6. Remove the storage compartment below the headlight, pass above the OBD interface, then connect the wiring port to the navigation system interface.
Connecting the wires for a reverse camera does require some attention to detail. I've installed it several times, and usually start with the reverse light power source. Locate the wiring harness at the rear lights, specifically the positive wire for the reverse light (usually red), and use a multimeter to confirm it's only powered when the car is in reverse gear. Then connect the camera's power wire here, and the negative wire to the car's metal frame for grounding. Run the video cable from the camera to the display inside the car, connecting it with the yellow RCA plug. Remember not to connect directly to the battery, as it can cause a short circuit and damage the equipment. When installing, secure the wires properly to avoid them getting pinched in the tailgate gaps, which could lead to wire breakage. I also like to wrap electrical tape around the connections to prevent loosening. After installation, test it—if the screen lights up when you shift into reverse, it's working. For safety, it's best to regularly check the wire connections for aging, especially since rainy weather can corrode the wires. Doing it yourself is quite rewarding, but if you're not familiar with car electronics, it's better to ask for help to avoid blowing fuses or causing other issues.
