Backup camera for an older vehicle

[GetawaysRus]

Since TUGgers know everything, I'll start my research here...

I drive a newer mid-size car (2013 model), and I really do like the backup camera that came installed in my car. It's a great safety feature. For example, when I'm backing up in a parking lot, other cars like to zip past behind me even though I've already started backing out. The wide angle view of the backup camera has aided me many times to spot someone accelerating from my far right or left side to try to get past me before I back out completely. (Yes, I live in California. They drive badly here.)

We also own a 2001 Ford F-150 truck. The truck is is good mechanical condition and runs well. We've got about 125K miles on it and I maintain it religiously. With the prices of new trucks as high as they are, I see no reason to replace our truck. But I do miss the backup camera when I drive the truck, so I'm considering purchasing one.

I'm only mildly handy, so I'd probably have someone (a store, most likely) install it for me.

I'm curious if anyone has installed a backup camera in an older vehicle and any comments you can make about the available options and what you learned when you made the purchase. Since our truck is a 2001, we don't have any form of video display as part of the dashboard.

 

[PigsDad]

What about something like this:

https://pearlauto.com/rearvision

The only installation is putting the frame on your license plate, and then it wirelessly broadcasts the image to your smart phone. No need to buy an additional video display and simple installation.

Kurt

 

[TUGBrian]

absolutely! i have one in my 04 ford truck as well..there was even a small hole in the bumper right next to the license plate designed for a camera (if not you could drill one).

depending on the sort of stereo in your truck currently (im not sure what radio was used in f150s in 2001, but im guessing its similar to the 04 I had)...the large double din unit can be replaced with a touch screen unit (prices range from 150 to thousands depending on how nifty you want)...and these modern stereos let you plug the camera (just a single video cable) into the back and will display the feed right there on the head unit.

 

[TUGBrian]

*edit...appears now they make plenty of "all in one" units now that include a little monitor for you, so you wouldnt even have to replace your stereo.

https://www.amazon.com/Pyle-PLCM720...qid=1484938644&sr=8-16&keywords=backup+camera

https://www.amazon.com/gp/slredirec...4938644&id=3024465455896541&widgetName=sp_atf

 

[pedro47]

The power of knowledge from the man himself TUGBrian Roger. Now that is Awesome.

*edit...appears now they make plenty of "all in one" units now that include a little monitor for you, so you wouldnt even have to replace your stereo.

https://www.amazon.com/Pyle-PLCM720...qid=1484938644&sr=8-16&keywords=backup+camera

https://www.amazon.com/gp/slredirect/picassoRedirect.html/ref=pa_sp_atf_aps_sr_pg1_1?ie=UTF8&adId=A04598891W3DUZY6DH90A&url=https://www.amazon.com/Camecho-Wireless-Universal-Security-Waterproof/dp/B01HI829TG/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1484938644&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=backup+camera&psc=1&qualifier=1484938644&id=3024465455896541&widgetName=sp_atf

 

[Passepartout]

I'd wager that Best Buy or any 'decent' car stereo shop will have back-up cameras and if you are not all that handy, they can install it for you. My Toyota Tundra's monitor is in the rear-view mirror. The video display is only about 2"X 3", but that's enough for parking or backing up to a trailer.

Jim

 

[Ty1on]

While on this subject, dashcams are also a terrific thing to have in our society of litiginous frauds and liars. They aren't that expnsive, $80-$250, and the ones I like record a split screen of forward and reverse looking views. Video is a great, great thing to have when someone who caused an accident with you is sitting at the next table over in court, wearing a neckbrace.