How to Add a Backup Camera to Your Truck

Adding a backup camera to a truck is a great way to improve visibility and safety when backing up. It can be particularly helpful if your truck has a large blind spot, or if you frequently tow a trailer. In this blog post, we’ll cover the benefits, they different types of cameras and the basic steps to add a backup camera to your truck.

There are several benefits of adding a backup camera to a truck:

1. Improved visibility: A backup camera can provide better visibility of what’s behind the truck, including people, animals, and other vehicles. This can help prevent accidents and make backing up safer.
2. Easier parking: A backup camera can make parking easier, especially in tight spaces or when backing into a parking spot. This can reduce the risk of collisions with other vehicles or objects.
3. Reduced blind spots: Many trucks have large blind spots, which can make it difficult to see what’s behind them. A backup camera can help reduce blind spots and improve overall visibility.
4. Increased safety: By providing better visibility and reducing blind spots, a backup camera can increase safety for both the driver and other road users. This can help prevent accidents and reduce the risk of injury or property damage.
5. Resale value: Adding a backup camera can increase the resale value of a truck, as it is a desirable feature for many buyers.

Overall, adding a backup camera to a truck can improve safety, make driving and parking easier, and increase the value of the vehicle.

Types of Backup Cameras

There are several types of backup cameras available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

1. License Plate Cameras: This type of camera is mounted on the license plate frame and provides a wide-angle view of the area behind the truck. It is easy to install and does not require any drilling or cutting.
2. Tailgate Handle Cameras: This camera is mounted on the tailgate handle and provides a view of the area directly behind the truck. It is discreet and blends in with the truck’s design, but may not provide as wide of a view as other camera types.
3. Universal Cameras: This type of camera can be mounted anywhere on the truck, such as on the bumper or roof. It provides a customizable view of the area behind the truck, but may require more installation work.
4. Wireless Cameras: These cameras transmit the video signal wirelessly to a monitor or display screen in the truck. They are easy to install and do not require any wiring, but may have limited range and signal interference.

Here are the steps to follow to add a backup camera to your truck:

Step 1: Choose a Backup Camera System

Before you can install a backup camera, you’ll need to choose a camera system. There are a wide variety of backup camera systems available, from basic systems with a single camera to more advanced systems with multiple cameras and additional features like night vision and parking sensors.

When choosing a backup camera system, consider factors like your budget, the size of your truck, and your specific needs. You can purchase a backup camera system from our list of options.

Step 2: Gather Tools and Materials

Once you’ve chosen a backup camera system, you’ll need to gather the necessary tools and materials to install it. Depending on the specific camera system you choose, you may need the following tools and materials:

• Drill
• Screwdriver
• Wire cutters/strippers
• Electrical tape
• Wiring harness
• Camera mount

Step 3: Mount the Camera

The first step in installing your backup camera is to mount the camera itself. Most backup camera systems come with a camera mount that can be attached to the rear of your truck. Choose a location for the camera that provides the best visibility when backing up.

Once you’ve chosen a location for the camera, use a drill and screws to attach the camera mount to the truck.

Step 4: Install the Wiring Harness

Next, you’ll need to install the wiring harness for the backup camera. This harness typically includes a power wire, a ground wire, and a video cable that connects the camera to the monitor.

To install the wiring harness, run the wires from the camera mount to the front of the truck. You may need to drill holes in the truck to run the wires through. Use wire cutters and strippers to connect the wires to the appropriate power and ground sources in your truck.

Step 5: Connect the Camera to the Monitor

Once the wiring harness is installed, you can connect the camera to the monitor. This is typically done using a video cable that runs from the camera to the monitor.

Connect the video cable to the camera and run it along the wiring harness to the front of the truck. Then, connect the other end of the video cable to the monitor.

Step 6: Test the System

Before finishing the installation, test the backup camera system to make sure everything is working correctly. Turn on your truck and put it in reverse. The backup camera should turn on and display the view behind your truck on the monitor.

Make any necessary adjustments to the camera or wiring before finishing the installation.

Step 7: Finish the Installation

Once you’ve tested the backup camera system and made any necessary adjustments, finish the installation. This may involve securing the wiring harness in place and hiding any exposed wires.

With the backup camera installed, you can enjoy improved visibility and safety when backing up your truck. Just be sure to follow any maintenance instructions provided with your backup camera system to keep it working properly.

Video Walkthrough

We have a walkthrough of a build we did for a 2020 Wrangler where we added a digital rear view mirror backup camera.