Backup camera recommendations

[Vincent]

I'd like to install a backup camera in my 2009 Honda CR-V. It looks like I have 3 options and I'm wondering what thoughts or recommendations folks have.

(1) Wireless camera with rear view mirror display

http://www.amazon.com/Pyle-PLCM4300WiR-Wireless-Distance-Waterproof/dp/B004V9GQT0

(2) Double din head unit with screen

http://www.crutchfield.com/p_130170DVD/Pioneer-AVH-170DVD.html?tp=20217

(3) Garmin GPS + backup camera

https://buy.garmin.com/en-US/US/on-...vi-2798lmt-with-backup-camera/prod150565.html

(1) seems to be the least costly but I can't find any with consistently positive reviews on Amazon. (2) costs more but will probably be the cleanest solution. Reviewers rate the camera in the Garmin (3) poorly.

AnandTech, what should I do?

 

[nisryus]

I tried the wireless one but returned it before went with the wire one. Maybe the one I got was defective, as the signal was not consistent and some times it just displayed nothing.

Mine was a different brand though, your mileage might varies.

 

[razel]

If it was ever offered as a factory option for your generation of CRV, then I'd check that route. It's going to be expensive via dealer and you'll have to install it, but I've had good luck via car specific online forums. If your headunit (radio) takes standard double-DIN, then definitely check out the Honda Civic/Accord forums.

Otherwise, I'd go with the rear-view mirror ones as long as your rear-view mirror is basic. No compass, HomeLink, hazard/security light, etc. I've also been checking these rear backup cameras out and the OEM factory units are just stealthier right now. The license plate ones are horrific looking, worse than spinner rims and unlike rims just beg you to steal them. Perhaps in a few more years after backup cameras are mandatory on new cars that you'll get more options.

 

[NutBucket]

I do like the review mirror for placement. I had that in the GMC and it was great since you're already looking there. Dash placement is OK for things like parallel parking or backing into a parking space but not so useful when reversing out.

 

[Greenman]

I do like the review mirror for placement. I had that in the GMC and it was great since you're already looking there. Dash placement is OK for things like parallel parking or backing into a parking space but not so useful when reversing out.

This has been my experience. My camera displays on my head unit I can't get used to looking down at the head unit while backing up. Mirror mounted is a natural place for the display.

 

[nisryus]

I mounted my display on the dashboard, so I don't have to look all the way down. But you guys are right, it would be easier to just see the screen on the rear view mirror.

 

[Midwayman]

If it was ever offered as a factory option for your generation of CRV, then I'd check that route. It's going to be expensive via dealer and you'll have to install it, but I've had good luck via car specific online forums. If your headunit (radio) takes standard double-DIN, then definitely check out the Honda Civic/Accord forums.

It was available if you had the nav system. Luckily the HU looks like a standard double DIN unit. My wife has the factory nav.

If I were to retrofit I'd just get a mirror unit. Unless you want to add all the stuff a HU might get you. GPS, Bluetooth handfree, on board mp3 storage, etc.

 

[Vincent]

Thanks, everyone.

We just have the base model CRV, although as Midwayman said, the factory backup camera is available in the top of the line model with the navigation system. It might be tricky to get the factory system installed in our car.

I found a camera that gives a more OEM look than the ones that attach to the license plate:

http://www.amazon.com/Crimestopper-OEM-6216-Angle-Back-Up-Camera/dp/B007I9A4KW

Still trying to decide whether to get a mirror display or a double DIN head unit display.

 

[Ns1]

2017 bump. Amazon is flooded with Chinese backup cameras. Next tier up seems to be the speaker manufacturer backup systems (Alpine, Pioneer), with the Garmin camera system still suffering from terrible picture quality reviews.

I'm scared of the mass produced Chinese product but I'm also too cheap to pay the Alpine/Pioneer upcharge unless it's definitely worth the premium.