Reversing cameras for cars

capt_slog

I have an Astra estate, great for getting loads of stuff in the back but not so good when it comes to backing it in anywhere, they are a bugger when it comes to judging the distance.

I've been looking at reversing cameras on the Ebay, and wondering of anyone else has bought and fitted the same.

I especially want to know about the view. Some of them specify that you get a reverse image view on the monitor, just the same as if you were looking in a mirror, which is what I think is needed. But most don't say this or say that it is set on the monitor (but does this have to be set each time it switches on?)

cheers

OffTheBackAdam

I've used them on a big pick-up truck. Quite good.

bigmat

Parking sensors do the job for me (Mazda 6 estate). Means you can actually look where you're going rather than become reliant on a video image.

tiredofwhiners

If you have rear parking sensors already, I'd say not to waste your money.

I have 360 dgree sensors on my car, with a full rear camera built in and with virtual parking guidelines, bit i ignore it 99% of the time as the wing mirrors plus sensors do everything needed. Maybe its an age thing, but I'd trust the beeps and the wing mirrors more than I would a camera view as I am old and have used mirrors longer than many folks have been alive

dw300

+1 for sensors + mirrors

ShutUpLegs

Bit like a dishwasher, don't really need it but next door have one...

capt_slog

I don't have sensors. I thought if I was going to fit anything that I would prefer a camera system because I trust what I can see.

A few years ago I had a small bump in a car park with another car was doing the same thing opposite when reversing out of a space (there was no choice by the way, I had to go in forwards which I never usually do), I estimate that this bump has cost me around £1000 in insurance premiums, so the cost of putting a camera or anything else on the car to help avoid this happening is worth it.

nicklouse

there are a few out there that come as a kit (screen and camera) at fair price.

take your time in looking at where to mount the camera as most even though they offer a wide angle lens offer quite a limited view.

there are also options of buying a screen and camera seperate and then you can get a security type with IR as well as colour.

I just bought a cheap camera and connected it to my head unit. i positioned it more for rear view than for reversing. (van with tinted windows makes seeing what is directly behind fun).

peat

My friend's Ford Kuga has one. Really bizarre, i couldn't quite get the hang of it. The perspective was odd. +1 for sensors and mirrors - although the sensors on my 320d are waay too sensitive and throw an epi when i get within a metre of anything.

I have used a cam while driving a combine harvester, very handy then because the rear is pretty much one giant blind-spot.

capt_slog

I've decided to have a go with some parking sensors and see how I get on. I found a set for £12 that were even coloured the same as my car, and they look easier to fit and operate.

Thanks for the advice.