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Driving a car with low visibility and lots of blind spots can be frustrating at best and a safety concern at worst. Therefore, having surround-view cameras (also known as 360-degree, bird’s-eye, or panoramic-view systems) can be a boon, especially if you need help mastering parallel parking or any other parking scenario. The system cleverly combines information from all the high-resolution cameras together and projects it onto your car’s display screen, with some camera systems even allowing drivers to see what’s underneath the car. Notable are the latest versions, where the digital processing is so impressive that it’s hard to tell how efficiently the multiple cameras piece everything together, despite varying levels of light and brightness.
While most new cars offer surround-view systems as standard equipment or as part of an optional package, some vehicles, including older cars and some entry-level models, do without it. If you have a vehicle without the feature but are interested in installing it, there are several aftermarket solutions available, which cost around $200-250. Whereas Amazon And EBAY List some of the more affordable options It’s not unusual to find aftermarket 360-degree camera systems priced over $1,000, which usually feature an additional screen/monitor. Worth mentioning is that when you take into account labor and, in some cases, if the stock infotainment system isn’t compatible, the cost can add up quickly.
A complete 360-degree package typically includes four cameras, their housings, all necessary wiring harnesses, a monitor, cable extensions, and a control unit. Most of these kits are universal, but it’s worth checking compatibility with your car.
Installation takes time and effort
Purchasing the camera system is the easiest part. Installation is more complex because of the wiring, routing, and calibration required. The latter is important, because only when the cameras are properly calibrated will the system actually work as it should. in the matter of This is the RVS INView 360-Degree Camera SystemCalibration kit sold separately.
Looking at the installation manual for an RVS gives you an idea of how laborious the process can be. Make sure you are confident and know what you are doing, as the installation process may require removing the mirrors (depending on their design), front and rear bumpers, and making sure all the wiring is done correctly. Some 360-degree camera systems have wires that connect to the turn signals that activate the corresponding side camera to reduce blind spots when you are about to turn. Not installing them correctly may result in you losing the full benefits of the system. So if you’re not sure, leave it to the professionals.
Since specifications may vary by brand, your best option is to follow the installation guide provided with the kit. It should provide all wiring, connection and calibration details in an easily understandable manner. But before you start wiring, the first step is to select camera locations. Most installers mount one on the front grille, one at the rear (near the license plate), and one on each outside rearview mirror. It is important that you angle the camera properly so that the view is not distorted in any way. Once the wiring and calibration (steps that will definitely test your patience) are complete, your 360-degree camera system should now be up and running.
