Why does the BMW 3 Series only display the radar but not the reversing camera?
3 Answers
When the BMW's reversing camera shows no image but only the radar display, the reason for this situation is: the reversing radar camera is damaged, and replacing the reversing camera will solve the issue. The specific steps are: 1. Pry open the trunk interior clips and remove the trunk lining. 2. Remove the camera mount and replace it with a new camera. 3. Install the new camera in place and securely connect the camera wiring. 4. Reassemble the interior panel and test to ensure normal operation. Additional information: The reversing camera is designed for vehicle reversing, helping the driver observe the distance between the car and obstacles. Even at night, the reversing camera provides clear visibility as it uses infrared illumination.
As a veteran BMW driver with over a decade of experience, let me tell you, it's quite common for the reversing camera to suddenly stop displaying and only show the radar image. I encountered this issue myself last time. There are multiple possible causes: the camera hardware might be damaged or obstructed by dirt—if dust, rain, or snow covers the lens, the system automatically switches to radar assistance; wiring issues are also common—loose or damaged video cables can interrupt the signal, so check the wiring under the rear seats or near the tailgate; another possibility is a blown fuse, especially the one for the video circuit, which can burn out due to minor current overload; occasionally, software glitches can occur, such as accidentally disabling the camera display in the system settings or enabling split-screen mode in the iDrive menu, causing only the radar portion to show; even module aging can lead to video signal interruptions. Regularly clean the lens while driving, and a simple restart of the infotainment system can help identify software issues. If the problem persists, it's best to visit a 4S shop for a comprehensive diagnosis as soon as possible—don’t delay, as reversing safety is too important.
I've encountered this issue with my own car's reversing camera—the radar works but the image disappears, which is mostly a hardware failure. First, consider the camera unit itself—I've removed the tailgate panel a few times, and the camera position on a BMW 3 Series is prone to impacts or water ingress, which can damage the components. Next, wiring faults—loose video connectors or broken cables can block signal transmission. Fuse issues are also common; if the relevant fuse in the dashboard fuse box is blown, it should be replaced. On the software side, BMW's iDrive occasionally has update errors that disable the camera function—try re-enabling it in the 'Vehicle' settings menu or restoring factory settings to resolve it. Additionally, temperature effects—cold weather can cause wiring to contract, leading to poor contact, which may recover after warming up the car. When checking yourself, start with the basics: wipe the lens with a cloth, restart the system, and if that doesn't work, seek professional repair—don't take risks.
