What causes the reverse light not to light up and the reverse camera not to display?
3 Answers
The possible causes and solutions for the reverse light not lighting up and the reverse camera not displaying are as follows: 1. Display settings issue: There is usually a camera switch control in the display settings, which should be set to "ON." 2. Camera malfunction: Inspect and replace the camera if necessary. 3. Wiring issue: This is the most common problem. The wiring harness for the reverse camera runs from the dashboard to the trunk, which is a long distance, and it's likely that a wire or connector is not making proper contact. A thorough inspection is needed. 4. Scratched reverse camera: Most camera surfaces are fragile, so it's advisable to apply a protective film over the camera. 5. Poor-quality reverse camera.
When I encountered a similar issue before, it was really frustrating, thinking there was a major problem with the car. Both the reverse lights and the backup camera failing could be due to a common cause, such as a faulty reverse gear switch—it's located near the transmission and controls the signal; if it malfunctions, it affects both. Or it could be a blown fuse, especially the reverse-related fuse in the fuse box. Another possibility is poor wiring contact, like loose or aged connectors. There’s also the chance of a faulty body control module, which handles the reverse signal. My advice is to first check the fuses—refer to the vehicle manual for their location and try replacing them yourself. If that doesn’t work, take it to a professional shop to inspect the switch or wiring. These components are crucial when reversing—safety comes first, so don’t delay. Last time, my wife’s car had this issue, and replacing the fuse fixed it—saved money and peace of mind.
As a car enthusiast who loves tinkering, I think this is mostly related to the electrical system. The reverse lights and camera rely on the same signal source—either the reverse sensor or relay, which might be faulty and causing signal interruption; another common issue is blown fuses, especially after rainy weather or modifications leading to unstable current; loose wiring connections can also cause this—try unplugging and reconnecting them. When troubleshooting, use a multimeter to check if the switch output is functioning properly, and don’t overlook rusty ground wires. Voltage abnormalities can also affect the camera module. Early detection allows for simple fixes, like cleaning contact points; if severe, components may need replacement. Keeping the circuit dry helps prevent issues—for example, I inspect the connections on my old car monthly.
