Backup cameras

Federal law has required backup cameras on new cars since May 2018. If your car is older, this is the single highest-leverage safety upgrade you can make. Three install styles to choose from based on how much work you want to do.

The simplest install is a wireless solar-powered camera that mounts to your license plate with no wiring at all. The cleanest install is an OE-style replacement camera that swaps into the factory location and looks like it came from the factory. Everything else falls somewhere in between.

Affiliate disclosure. Some links on this page earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we would install in our own cars. The vehicle ratings on this site are formula-driven and never affected by these links.
Easiest install

AUTO-VOX Solar 1

AUTO-VOX · Solar 1
~$200

Truly wireless, solar powered, license-plate mount. The easiest backup camera install possible.

Why we picked it

Mounts to your existing license plate frame with two screws. Solar panel charges the camera continuously. Wireless transmission to a 5-inch dash display. No wiring at all, including no power wires to run. For owners who want a backup camera but do not want to touch the rear wiring harness, nothing else comes close.

Watch-outs

Image quality is good but not OEM-tier. Solar panel needs reasonable daylight exposure to stay charged in winter.

Affiliate links pending: accounts in setup

Garmin BC 50

Garmin · BC 50
~$250

Wireless camera with night vision. Works with Garmin GPS units or any head unit with wireless camera input.

Why we picked it

Garmin build quality. Night vision is genuinely useful in dark driveways and unlit lots. Wireless transmission means a much cleaner install than running camera signal wire from bumper to dash. Pairs with Garmin nav units and any compatible aftermarket head unit.

Watch-outs

You still need to run a power wire to the camera (tapped from reverse light circuit). Display is sold separately.

Affiliate links pending: accounts in setup

Rear View Safety RVS-770613

Rear View Safety · RVS-770613
~$180

Wired universal kit. Reliable, weather-sealed, and works with any RCA-input display.

Why we picked it

Rear View Safety has been making commercial-grade backup cameras for over a decade. The 770613 is their consumer wired kit: weather-sealed camera, 60-foot cable, RCA output that plugs into any compatible head unit or standalone display. The honest pick when you want OEM-tier reliability without the OEM price.

Watch-outs

Wired install means running camera cable from rear bumper to the dash. Plan two to three hours for a careful install or have a shop do it.

Affiliate links pending: accounts in setup

Brandmotion factory-style backup camera

Brandmotion · Vehicle-specific (varies)
~$400

OE-style replacement cameras that swap into the factory location for specific vehicles. Looks like it came from the factory.

Why we picked it

Brandmotion makes vehicle-specific cameras that replace the factory tailgate handle, license plate light, or trim piece — so the install ends up looking OEM, not aftermarket. Strong fit for older Tacomas, F-150s, 4Runners, and Wranglers. Check the Brandmotion catalog (or Crutchfield) for your specific vehicle.

Watch-outs

Vehicle-specific — the exact part number depends on your year and trim. Highest install cost of the four options.

Affiliate links pending: accounts in setup
← Back to all modernize categories