What is a Park Assist Camera?
A park assist camera, also known as a backup camera, is a safety device that allows a driver to see objects behind a vehicle while backing up or during parking. Many vehicles come factory equipped with a park assist camera. Some even have "all-around" views with cameras mounted all the way around the vehicle. Aftermarket systems are also available (some that even work wirelessly with a phone) for retrofitting a vehicle with this feature.
How does a Park Assist Camera work?
The park assist camera is mounted at the rear of a car, truck, or SUV and sends an image of the area behind the vehicle for the driver to view. When the transmission is shifted into reverse, the center-dash display switches from the radio control or navigation screen to the park assist camera view. The camera employs a wide angle (fisheye) lens that allows a broad view of any objects that might be in the way while the vehicle is backing up. The view is a mirror image so that what the driver sees on the display (usually the same display as the radio/navigation system) is consistent with the view in the physical mirrors. The camera is aimed downward so that objects on the ground can be spotted.
What are the symptoms of a bad Park Assist Camera?
Symptoms of a faulty park assist camera might include a cloudy image, or one with poor resolution. Some owners complain that the camera image does not appear when the vehicle is shifted into reverse or that a black screen appears. Others comment that the display at times is grainy, has lines through it, or has interference.
Can I drive with a bad Park Assist Camera?
It is okay to drive a vehicle equipped with a park assist camera that is not functioning properly or does not work. The danger of a faulty park assist camera has more to do with a driver's habits. If the park assist camera is relied on solely for a long period of time (a poor driving habit), other safe driving procedures - such as checking the mirrors and scanning blind spots - may be out of practice. It is important to address the problem with the park assist camera, but it should be relied on only as a part of a more comprehensive safe driving system.
How often do Park Assist Cameras need replacement?
The park assist camera installed as an OEM option or standard feature should last the lifetime of the vehicle. Camera lifespan can be shortened by allowing dirt or debris to build up around the unit.
How are Park Assist Cameras diagnosed?
A frequent complaint with a park assist camera is a cloudy image. A technician will check the camera to make sure the lens is not compromised with dirt or other debris. From there, diagnosis depends on the type of problem with the camera. A camera that does not turn on may have lost its power supply. A technician will reference an electrical diagram to locate and test the wiring to the camera. For instance, on some vehicles, the wires run under a seat in the car and get caught on the seat track. These issues are model-specific. A black screen when the vehicle is shifted into park can be caused by a misaligned camera. It can also be caused by a setting in the digital menu that has been switched "off." A technician will attempt to pinpoint whether the issue is simply a setting, or if the cause is a broken camera mount, a faulty camera, a software issue, or something else. Access to vehicle specific repair data, and even recall bulletins, will aid greatly in the diagnostic procedure.
How is the Park Assist Camera replaced?
The challenge with park assist camera replacement (as with many electronic elements in a vehicle) is less with the actual replacement procedure, and more with correct diagnosis of the system. If the park assist camera is found to be faulty and it needs to be replaced, a technician will simply disconnect the camera's electrical connection, remove the retainer(s), pull out the old camera, and install the new one. If the camera is an aftermarket camera (rather than factory-installed), programming may be necessary. On some vehicles it may be necessary to remove the rear bumper in order to replace the camera, making the repair more difficult and time consuming.
RepairPal Recommendations for Park Assist Camera issues
If there is a performance issue with the park assist camera, such as a cloudy image or a black screen, it is wise to first check to make sure that the camera lens is clear of dirt, snow, ice, or other debris that might block or obscure the image. If the display goes blank when the vehicle is shifted into reverse, check the user settings in the display menu to make sure that the park assist camera option is turned "on." If these simple fixes do not solve the problem, consider taking it to a repair professional for proper diagnosis and repair.
What to look out for when dealing with Park Assist Camera issues
It is important to remember that the park assist camera is only a part of a more comprehensive safe driving and park assist system that also includes backup warning sensors, use of the rear and side view mirrors, and scans of the blind spots on each side of the vehicle. Before getting into drive, always perform a visual check all the way around a vehicle to make sure that there is nothing that can be run over when backing up. There is no substitute for safe driving habits. Additionally, the park assist camera field of view is different from one vehicle to the next. Some vehicles have a wide view that distorts images (especially those at a distance). Some have a narrower angle that misses objects to the sides. Take this into account when switching vehicles. The camera has a difficult time seeing things below the rear end of the vehicle or flat on the ground. Never become too dependent on any one safety method, including the use of a park assist camera.
Can I replace the Park Assist Camera myself?
Most park assist cameras can be replaced by someone with an intermediate level of DIY experience. However, park assist camera replacement is not the difficult part of the repair. Diagnosis is a challenge that may be better left to a professional.