Hello everyone, I have the head unit and I am looking for options to put a backup camera in the van. I am thinking the horizontal surface above the license plate would be best, closest to the center of the van. Anyone have any recommendations on what camera to buy? Is there a better location? I am open to all ideas, and I haven't seen any options to use or replace the third brake light. Thanks for any input you may have

 

I'm surprised you couldn't find one.



https://www.rearviewsafety.com/safet...-camera-1.html

 

I have a 2001, that fits 2003+ I assume it doesn't fit 2001

 

I installed an 1 DIN Android radio with 9" screen in the place of the original radio. All these Android radios have the option to connect a rear cam.
The rear cam itself I mounted in the license plate holder. The cable from the door, through the flexible rubber cable pipe and then through the cabin to the front. I had to order a longer cable (10m) than the one that came with the radio (5m).

 

I wouldn't use a license plate camera. You won't see obstacles that are higher than the plate.

 

I was thinking that the license plate camera would be off center. I would think you could aim one you attach to the horizontal surface above the plate to see pretty well. Thanks for the input.

 

cameras are usually pointed DOWN to see where obstacles are in relation to your vehicle. The license plate ones looked fixed in place to me like you can't aim them.

 

- Obstacles that are higher than the license plate can be seen from the rear window (at least in my car)
- I mounted the camera as much to the middle of the car as possible, that is close enough to the center
- The camera that I have can be aimed up and down as much as you want. I made it pointing down a bit and that works great for me

I will make some pics tomorrow when it is light again and I will post them.

 

rear visibility in these vans is pretty poor to begin with. And if you use it to haul (why else would you drive a van), then it's often non-existent.
Plus, the windows are only so big with plenty of blind spots. If you're a contractor parking in tight spaces or around buildings and overhangs, you know this can be an issue.
Just look at all the dented corners on cargo vans on the road.

Plus if you get a camera that records, a high mounted camera lets you capture good footage of cars behind you. That can potentially pay dividends in an insurance claim.

 

As promised: