Three Backup Camera Options for the Truck Owner
Mark | Mar 09, 2009 | Comments 12
If you have young children, then you have probably thought long and hard about installing a backup camera on your pickup. Even if you don’t have kids, not knowing what is directly behind your truck while backing up can put butterflies in the stomach of even the most experienced driver. It’s embarrassing to lightly tap a wall or back over someone’s bike, and you can really damage your vehicle if something were to occur with the tailgate down. Likewise, young ones can’t always be counted on make the best decisions while playing near your parking area.
Autero Wireless Backup Camera
There are many different camera options available for most trucks, including three for the Tundra. The Autero Wireless Backup Camera is a very simple system that uses a waterproof camera clipped onto your license plate in order to wirelessly transmit a clear video image of what is directly behind your bumper while you are reversing – even in the dark, thanks to night vision technology. Priced at around $250, the camera is in full color, and has a crisp resolution that makes it easier to pick out details on the 3.6 LCD screen. Since the entire system is wireless, you can mount the screen where it is most convenient to you.
The Swift Hitch Trailer Camera also employs wireless transmission for easy installation, but instead of using your license plate, the Swift system instead mounts via a magnet onto your tailgate so you can point it exactly where you need to see. Selling for just under $300, the company advertises it as being perfect for when you need to hitch your truck up to a trailer – no more guessing when it’s time to line up the receiver on your hitch.
Swift Trailer Hitch Camera
The Switch Hitch Trailer Camera can also see in the dark, and it comes with a 2.5 inch color LCD screen for monitoring. With a 300 foot range, it conceivably has uses beyond a backup camera, as it is probably perfect for surveillance…or keeping an eye on a load while driving.
Mito License Plate Backup Camera
The Mito License Frame Backup Camera is priced in the same neighborhood as the Autero unit (a little less than $250), but it doesn’t include an LCD screen. Instead, the camera, which is integrated into a license plate frame, is designed to be wired into an existing screen, such as a DVD navigation unit or an in-truck entertainment system. The Mito has a very sharp resolution and broadcasts in full color. Since it lacks both night vision and an LCD display, the Mito is not quite as attractive as the Swift or the Autero; but those who want to keep their camera installation as clean and hidden as possible will likely appreciate the license plate frame approach.
Each of these backup cameras can save you from a whole lot of hassle and heartache while reversing your truck. For those who live in an urban environment, a backup camera will most likely pay for itself the first time you are forced to back your Tundra out of a tight parking space thanks to the inconsiderate actions of other drivers. These cameras are one more tool to help you keep your cool out on the road.
Filed Under: Toyota Tundra Accessories
Thanks for the reviews. I am now considering the first option above. What I like best is the wireless capability and it can be moved into any vehicle of choice. I’ve tapped a motorcycle while backing up in my SUV not even knowing it was behind me b/c I was on an incline and couldn’t see in rearview OR side mirrors.
I already installed an OEM one. It’s good enough for me to hook up the boat on the first try all the time. Nothing can beat that constantly going to check to see where you’re at and guessing. Another reason I like the OEM it hooks straight up the what’s already prewired. I know it isn’t wireless or can be used in any vehicle but my wife’s car an 07 Prius already has her backup camera with her nav unit. Not to mention the camera in the handle makes a great angle of view to hook up.
I love both the wireless and compatibility feature. I checked the install instructions and there isn’t much to do but wire it to the reverse lamp. Even I can do that without help. 🙂
The funny thing TXTee when I installed the camera I didn’t disconnect the battery. Yes the picture was upside down. It was getting dark so I said I will take care of it tomorrow and when I checked it again to see the pic the picture was perfect. So even I can mess it up and come out right.
Glad that one worked out….I wouldn’t mind getting it because it’s very difficult with a long bed and dark tint. But I’m skeptical about putting any money out right now with such uncertain times. I’ll let you know my final decision though. Thanks for the reminder to disconnet power. 😉
Just yesterday a dad backed his SUV over his 4 year old daughter. She didn’t make it. Now they should make this mandatory on all vehicles to avoid such a lost.
Mickey – I think you make an excellent point. The costs are low enough now that including one of these in every vehicle would save us all money in the long run from needless insurance claims and avoidable injuries, not to mention the personal losses.
Jason the worse part when he noticed what he did he step out and went to her and she stated it wasn’t his fault…….
I don’t think it should be mandatory although it is unfortunate a child was killed. I can even count on it being installed and people still not using them properly. Look how many accidents occur looking straight ahead/ 🙁
TXTee – That’s a good point too – people still run things over in plain sight. If only people paid attention when they were driving…
Jason we can only try and do our best at it. Still just sad about the little girl and even saying it wasn’t daddy’s fault. That’s very touching.
I don’t have one in my truck yet but I’m considering it. I can back my truck up pretty much anywhere using just mirrors but like stated before you put a motorcycle behind you or even a short car and it makes it difficult to figure out how close you are without getting out, might be a great investment.