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Personalize and Enhance Your Jeep Wrangler with These Upgrades

Jeep Upgrades

Few vehicles on the road have a more recognizable profile than the Jeep Wrangler. The popularity of the Wrangler and the multitude of upgrades available for every aspect of its features and performance have created a dedicated segment in the aftermarket industry. It’s time to take a look at some of the most popular upgrades available for this versatile off-roader.

Jeep Wrangler Audio Upgrades

Though great for car stereo shops, Wranglers have never come with what would be considered a genuinely premium audio system solution. The accoutrements of the first-generation YJ were, frankly, sparse. It had a single DIN-sized radio in the dash and 4×6-inch speakers on the sides of the dash. Now, radio upgrade options are endless, with AM/FM receivers that include Bluetooth wireless audio streaming and hands-free calling. Likewise, support for MP3 and FLAC digital media file playback from a disc or USB memory device is found on almost every source unit option. To extract the most from this decidedly basic platform, you are going to need to add a subwoofer of some kind. A set of 4×6 speakers will never make any reasonable amount of bass.

Jeep Upgrades
American Radio in Sanford, Florida, installed this 8-inch Stinger Elev8 radio in the dash of this Jeep.
Jeep Upgrades
Extreme Audio in Midlothian, Virginia, installed one of Alpine’s Jeep-specific i209-WRA multimedia radios in this Wrangler. The iDatalink Maestro interface included with the kit allows vehicle information to be displayed on the screen.

Fast-forward to the latest JL chassis Jeep, and we’ve got room for 6.5-inch speakers at the bottom of the dash and the overhead soundbar. The touchscreen Uconnect audio system with its large 8.4-inch display does an admirable job of providing the connectivity most people want. Fortunately, companies like iDatalink and PAC make great interfaces that will let your installer add high-quality amplifiers directly to this radio so you can create an amazing audio system.

It’s worth noting that the speakers in the JL-chassis Jeep have shrunk in size compared to those of the JK-chassis predecessor. To fit those 6.5-inch drivers, you’ll need to have your installer mount a set of replacement speaker pods from a company like Metra.

Jeep Upgrades
Metra offers speaker pods that will let your installer add 6.5-inch speakers to the dash of your 2018+ JL Wrangler or 2020+ Gladiator.
Jeep Upgrades
Apicella Auto Sound in Stony Point, New York, created these masterpiece dash pods for a client’s Wrangler.

Subwoofers and Custom Audio Upgrades

For those serious about adding realism and detail to their listening experience, you’ll want a subwoofer. The options are, as always, nearly endless and range from truly mild to impressively wild. A subwoofer upgrade not only adds bass to your music, but it also alleviates the need for the smaller speakers to try to reproduce these frequencies. The result is that the entire audio system will sound better and play louder.

Jeep Upgrades
Alpine’s SBV-10WRA subwoofer enclosure is designed to fit under the passenger seat of 2007 through 2018 Wrangler Unlimited Jeeps.
Jeep Upgrades
JL Audio has Stealthbox subwoofer system solutions for two-door and Unlimited Wranglers from 2007 to the current models. The SB-J-JL4DDRV/10TW1-4 shown here fits 2018+ Wranglers and is available in driver and passenger side applications with 2- or 4-ohm 10-inch subwoofers.
Jeep Upgrades
The team at Reference Audio Video in Great Falls, Montana, created a custom subwoofer solution in this Jeep using DD Audio subwoofers.

Jeep Backup Cameras

With the big spare tire hanging off the back of your Jeep, seeing what’s behind you when parking or maneuvering isn’t always easy. Adding a backup camera is a wise solution to reduce the risk of an accident. Thankfully, the aftermarket has dozens of options to add a camera and, if needed, a monitor to your Jeep. All the systems work automatically, so the camera image is displayed as soon as you put the transmission into reverse.

Jeep Upgrades
Brandmotion offers its FVMR-8866 camera and FullVUE rearview mirror kit for 2007 through 2018 Wrangler JK Vehicles.

Jeep Lighting Upgrades

If you’ve got an older Jeep, then you’ll likely want to look at upgrading the headlights so you can see safely once the sun starts to set. There are dozens of 7-inch round replacement headlight assemblies available, and you can choose from LED or HID bulb solutions. Integrated LED accent lights are also an option.

Jeep Upgrades
Westminster Speed and Sound in Westminster, Maryland, upgraded this 2016 Wrangler Unlimited with a set of JW Speaker headlights.
Jeep Upgrades
Heise offers these replacement Jeep Wrangler fog lights that are a direct drop-in upgrade for most 2007 through 2018 Wranglers. The lights feature three 10-watt Cree LEDs and RGB LED accent rings.

If you’re planning an off-road adventure, well, there’s no end to how many lights you can add to the front, sides, bottom and back of your Jeep. Of course, a high-output LED light bar on the front bumper or roof is one of the most potent single-light options to let you see down the trail and what’s around you. We suggest working with your installer to develop a plan that will provide the right lights for your vehicle. You’ll also want to consider how you’ll control those lights. Many companies make bespoke switch panels for Jeeps, or the shop you are working with may be able to create something specific for your needs.

Keep in mind that the same way that speakers, amplifiers and subwoofer can look similar on paper, the performance of lighting upgrade options vary dramatically. As always, if something looks like too much of a good deal, you are likely sacrificing something in terms of performance or durability.

Jeep Upgrades
Available in sizes from 10 to 50 inches, the ADAPT light bars from Rigid Industries can dynamically change the beam pattern from a 90-degree flood to a long-range spot pattern to suit the driving conditions.

Window Tint Adds Style and Comfort

If you live in an area that’s extremely hot during the summer, having the windows of your Jeep tinted with a heat-rejecting film is a great idea. Depending on the film you choose, some can block as much as 65% of the infrared heat energy from the sun. Of course, window tint also reduces glare, so it’s easier to drive when the sun is coming in from the side of your vehicle. Finally, there’s no denying that a nice tint job can make your Jeep look fantastic!

Jeep Upgrades
Driven Sound and Security in Marquette, Michigan, tinted the windows of this 2016 Wrangler Rubicon with high-performance 3M window film.

Winch and Compressor Upgrades

If you’re planning on adding a high-current device like a winch or an air compressor, drop by your local specialty mobile enhancement retailer. Nobody in the automotive aftermarket understands how to maximize the performance and reliability of these devices better. They’ll make sure the system has properly sized power wire and safe short-circuit protection devices. Likewise, they’ll ensure that the control switches are easily accessible and wired properly. Many shops can even source winches from Warn, Rough Country and Smitty Built and compressors from VIAIR and ARB.

Jeep Upgrades
Viair’s High Speed 2on2 air compressor system lets Jeep owners inflate tires up to 40 inches in diameter in a matter of minutes.

Bumpers, Side Steps and Body Accessories

If you’re shopping for a new front or rear bumper for your Jeep, or a set of side steps or rock sliders, your local stereo shop can likely help you out. If you’ve added larger wheels and tires or a lift kit, you may want to inquire about a solution like the AMP Research PowerStep or PowerStep XL motorized running boards. These convenient steps make getting in and out of your vehicle easy. They extend down when the door opens, then retract up close to the rocker panel a few seconds after you close the door. Once they’re retracted, you’ll have lots of ground clearance for the trails. Mobile enhancement specialists are the right choice to integrate the wiring for these steps into the electrical system of your Jeep so that the system is reliable.

Jeep Upgrades
Amp Research PowerStep motorized running boards are a perfect upgrade to make entering or exiting your Jeep easier and safer.

Wheels, Tires and Suspension

Though not available from every shop around the country, many retailers offer a wide selection of wheel and tire upgrades, along with lift kits to transform the look and performance of your Wrangler. Upgrading to a larger-diameter tire will add clearance under the front and rear axles so that you can climb over logs and rocks without drama. Suspension upgrades can improve articulation and increase approach and departure angle to make getting in and out of even the craziest of trails more fun.

Jeep Upgrades
Precision Audio in Bainbridge, Georgia, installed 33-inch Toyo Open Country tires and a 2.5-inch lift kit on this 2015 Wrangler Sahara.

Upgrade Your Jeep Wrangler Today!

Whether you need a new set of speakers in a TJ or want a concert-quality audio system in your new JL Wrangler, your local mobile enhancement retailer can help. Take your Jeep for a drive today and see what upgrades are available to make your commute or trail adventure more entertaining and fun.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Filed Under: ARTICLES, Backup Safety, Car Audio, RESOURCE LIBRARY

Product Spotlight: Momento M7 Dash Camera

Momento M7

Protecting yourself against fraud and false accusations while driving is easier when you have a dashcam system installed in your car or truck. Momento, the collision avoidance and safety technology brand from Firstech, has just introduced a new and revolutionary video recording solution – the M7, also known as the MD-7200. This new dash camera system increases the camera’s recording resolution, adds support for up to two additional cameras, and includes a unique radar-based motion sensor for parking mode.

Momento M7
The heart of the new Momento M7 is a QHD dashcam that includes a color LCD touchscreen for easy control and configuration.

Dashcam Video Features

The M7 is a super-compact dashcam system with a body measuring just over 2 inches wide, 1.5 inches tall and a mere 1.14 inches deep. The camera includes a windshield mounting bracket with the power, rear camera and interior camera connections built in for a tidy installation. The GPS receiver is also built into the base to have a clear view of the sky to provide as much accuracy as possible.

Momento M7
The mounting bracket includes rear and interior camera connections as well as the power connection and GPS antenna.

A compact color LCD touchscreen is on the rear of the body. Your installer can configure the camera settings quickly and easily through the menu, and you can view videos right in the vehicle without needing a computer or smartphone.

Momento M7
The color touchscreen will display the forward or rear camera image and includes an intuitive menu system.

The integrated forward-facing camera features a QHD (Quad HD) 2560-by-1440-pixel image sensor. That’s an increase in detail of 1.78 times what’s offered by 1080p sensors. As we’ve mentioned numerous times, image sensor resolution is crucial for capturing vital information like license plates and other identifying marks. Low-light and high-contrast video performance are a key part of what separates good cameras from great ones. The 5-megapixel image sensor in the M7 benefits from class-leading light sensitivity, exceptional noise reduction in dark conditions and seamless dual-exposure HDR to ensure that every detail is captured with the utmost clarity. It’s designed around a native 16:9 aspect ratio.

A key feature of the M7 is that the system comes out of the box with a high-performance rear camera. Many competing solutions have secondary cameras as an optional upgrade. Momento felt it was just as important to capture what was happening behind the vehicle as in front. The rear camera has a 1080p sensor, and the mounting bracket can be adjusted for perfect coverage out the back window of a sedan, hatchback, SUV or pickup truck.

Momento M7
The M7 system includes a 1080p rear camera.

The optional IC6 (known formally as the MD-IC6) vehicle interior camera is also 1080p and includes infrared emitters so everyone and everything inside the vehicle will be visible in the recording, even when it’s dark.

Finally, the M7 system includes a 64 GB microSD memory card, so there’s nothing extra required before your installer gets to work. Of course, a power harness is also included, so your installer can wire the camera system into the power and ignition sources for seamless operation.

Eco Mode Parking

Most modern dashcams have a function called Parking Mode. When the camera system is stationary for a short time (usually a few minutes), it stops storing video on the memory card. Most cameras continue to monitor what’s happening around the vehicle, and then they store a video file when the image sensor detects that someone or something has moved. Parking mode operating requires roughly 240 to 250 milliamps of current draw from the vehicle battery. This amount of current can drain the battery significantly after just a day or two.

The new Momento M7’s Eco Mode doesn’t use the image sensor to monitor motion. Instead, the M7 has a built-in radar sensor, as you’d find in a commercial building security system. When the radar sensor detects motion, the M7 starts to store video again. The benefit of this design is that the radar sensor motion detector draws less than 30 milliamps of current. Unless someone is circling your car constantly, that’s a massive reduction in current consumption that translates into less draw from the vehicle battery.

Momento M7
An integrated radar sensor monitors the area in front of your vehicle for motion while in parking mode.

Just as with Momento’s previous flagship dashcam, the M6 or MD-6200, during regular driving, the integrated accelerometer can trigger an alert recording that captures 15 seconds before the trigger and 15 seconds after. In addition, you can start a manual event recording by tapping on the REC button in the lower right corner of the touchscreen should you witness something abnormal during your driving adventures.

Easy-to-Use Desktop Software

You can download the M7 PC or Apple viewing software directly from the Momento website to easily navigate videos stored on the card with your desktop computer. The software will also allow you to view the front, rear or interior video feeds along with vehicle speed and location information. The location information is overlaid onto Google Maps data to see exactly where the vehicle was headed. Finally, data from the three-axis accelerometer is also shown on the screen, so braking, sudden steering inputs or an impact are also visible.

Upgrade Your Protection with the Momento M7 Dashcam

If you’re looking for a premium dash camera system with a high-resolution image sensor, support for multiple cameras and the latest in power-saving parking mode monitoring, visit a local authorized Momento retailer and ask about the new M7 dual-camera dashcam with radar. You can find a retailer near to you using the online dealer locator on their website. Also, be sure to follow Momento on Facebook, Instagram and to keep up with their latest news and product releases.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Filed Under: ARTICLES, Backup Safety, PRODUCTS, RESOURCE LIBRARY Tagged With: Momento

Popular Toyota Truck Upgrades for Better Sound, Safety and Style

Toyota Truck

Upgrading and personalizing pickup trucks and SUVs like the 4Runner, Tacoma and Tundra can make them not only look great but can increase their functionality. The truck accessory industry is a multi-million-dollar business that includes everything from wheels and tires to tonneau covers, custom lighting, sound system upgrades and remote car starters. Let’s look at just a few of the more popular options available for Toyota Truck owners.

Get Better Sound in Your Toyota Truck

Even if you’ve opted for a premium JBL sound system in your truck, your local specialty mobile electronics retailer can dramatically improve the way your music sounds. One of the easiest upgrades is to add a custom aftermarket subwoofer system to your vehicle. While Toyota and JBL do an adequate job on the mids and highs, no factory-installed sound system can produce the impact and low-frequency extension available from a premium upgrade.

Toyota Truck
The new ARC Audio SW-Series subwoofers can produce impressive bass from compact, low-profile subwoofer enclosures.

Your local car stereo shop can design and construct a custom subwoofer enclosure that will fit under the rear seat or against the back wall of a pickup truck. Dozens of companies offer shallow-mount subwoofers that deliver huge output from impressively compact enclosures.

Toyota Truck
If you own an 2007-’13 Tundra CrewMax, the SB-T-TUNDCMAX/13TW5v2 Stealthbox from JL Audio is a great way to add deep, rich bass to your sound system.

Full Audio System Upgrades

If your truck or SUV didn’t come with a premium sound system, or you want to take things to the next level, upgrading the speakers and adding an amplifier and digital signal processor can make a huge difference. Premium speakers let you crank your music to much higher levels with a dramatic reduction in distortion and improved clarity.

Toyota Truck
The MLK 1650.3 Legend speakers from Hertz feature distortion-reducing technologies such as a copper shorting ring in the woofer motor for improved clarity.

A high-quality amplifier will let you listen to your music at concert-like volume levels. Some basic factory-installed radios can only produce 18 to 20 watts of power per speaker. A local car audio shop can easily quadruple that power to let your music come to life!

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, if you have chosen to upgrade your car stereo, including a digital signal processor in the system is crucially important. When configured properly, a DSP will enable your installation technician to fine-tune the frequency response of the system to ensure that it delivers smooth and natural sound while offering a realistic listening experience in terms of imaging and staging. In fact, many car audio enthusiasts will add an amplifier with an integrated DSP before upgrading the speakers in their vehicle.

Toyota Truck
The DSP Ultra from Helix includes 12 channels of equalization with advanced features to ensure that your system will sound detailed and realistic.

Add-On Navigation Systems

If your Toyota is a little older, add-on navigation system upgrades are available from such companies as NAV-TV. These upgrades can be integrated with the factory-installed color display in the dash to provide detailed turn-by-turn directions to addresses all across North America.

Toyota Truck
The NAV-TV NTV-KIT598 add-on navigation system works with 2014-2016 Tundra, Tacoma and Sequoia models with a 6.1-inch display.

Another option for adding navigation to your vehicle is to replace the radio with a modern multimedia receiver with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. These smartphone integration technologies allow you to use the voice recognition features of your phone with Google Maps or Waze.

Of course, you can also make phone calls, listen to and send replies to text messages or choose from about a dozen streaming audio and podcast services, all using voice commands.

Toyota Truck
The Sony XAV-AX8000 multimedia receiver features an amazing 8.95-inch touchscreen display that mounts just in front of the dash.

Backup Cameras and Safety Systems

Upgrading the safety features on your Toyota is a great way to improve your safety and the safety of those around you. One of the most popular upgrades is a backup camera system. These camera systems let you see everything behind your pickup or SUV to make sure you don’t run over any toys or bicycles when parking or maneuvering. Many options are available to display the camera image, including a new rearview mirror with an integrated screen, a factory-installed color display in the dash of the truck or a new multimedia receiver.

Toyota Truck
The Momento MR-1000 rearview mirror includes a 4.3-inch color LCD screen that can show a backup camera image.

Remote Starters Add Comfort

Whether you live in the North and want to warm up your truck on a cold winter day or have to battle the heat and humidity of Texas, Arizona or Florida and want to cool your truck off, a remote car starter is a great upgrade. You can choose from starter options that work with the key fob that came with your vehicle, upgrade to a long-range two-way remote control, or even add a module that works with your cell phone to let you start your vehicle from anywhere that you have access to the Internet.

Headlight and Off-Road Lighting Upgrades

If the lights on your vehicle aren’t bright enough, consider an LED or HID headlight upgrade. These bulb replacements can dramatically improve how far you can see at night, making driving much safer. Be sure to work with your retailer to choose a lighting upgrade that is perfectly compatible with the lens design on your vehicle.

Toyota Truck
A high-quality HID upgrade offers the most light output to ensure you can see clearly once the sun sets.

If you take your truck off-road and need to bring some daylight to a dark evening’s adventure, LED light bars and spotlights are a great addition. These can be mounted along the top of the roof, to an existing front bumper or an on upgraded, fabricated bumper with a built-in winch mount. Rearward-facing work lights are another popular option for people who tow trailers with their Toyotas.

Truck Accessories

Many shops offer such truck accessories as tonneau covers, custom bumpers, side steps and toolboxes that can add style, functionality and protection to your truck. Likewise, floor liners and seat covers are also great options to help keep the interior of your truck looking like new.

Personalize Your Toyota Truck Today!

Whether you’re after added comfort, safety, functionality or enjoyment, your local mobile enhancement specialty retailer can help make your Toyota perfect for your needs. Drop by a shop today to see just what they can offer!
This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Filed Under: ARTICLES, Backup Safety, Car Audio, Lighting, RESOURCE LIBRARY

Popular Porsche Audio System and Accessory Upgrades

Porsche Upgrades

When it comes to cars that offer a unique driving experience, few can match the pride of Stuttgart’s Porsche. As amazing as these cars are, specialist mobile enhancement retailers can help make them significantly better in terms of audio systems, safety solutions and electronic upgrade accessories. Let’s look at some of the most popular accessories available.

Porsche Audio System Upgrades

Whether your Porsche rolled off of the assembly line with a radio from Becker, a Bose audio system or one of the amazing Porsche Connect systems with a 12-inch glass touchscreen, you can make that audio system sound better. Automakers walk a balance between delivering features that consumers want and controlling the cost of the vehicle. Premium speakers and subwoofers, when powered by a quality amplifier, can transform a commute to work into a musical experience that rivals world-class recording studios and premium home audio systems.

Porsche Upgrades
Ralph’s Radio in Vancouver installed a Kenwood mutlimedia receiver in this 2010 Boxster S.

Your local specialist mobile enhancement retailer can also upgrade the technology in your car. If your Porsche didn’t come with Bluetooth hands-free calling, a new radio can fix that in a flash. If you are a true road warrior and want to send and receive text messages or make phone calls using the Apple CarPlay or Android Auto voice recognition systems, a new multimedia receiver is a the way to go.

You Can Never be Too Safe

Depending on the vintage of your Porsche, it may not have come from the factory with a backup camera system. This simple and elegant technology is standard issue on most new vehicles because it not only helps to prevent accidents, it can save lives. Kids playing in the driveway behind a Macan or Cayenne may not be visible in the rearview mirror. A high-resolution camera mounted on the tailgate or rear bumper will automatically show an image of anything and everything behind the vehicle.

In many instances, the camera can be integrated into the factory color display in the dash. If your vehicle doesn’t have a color screen, a replacement rearview mirror with an integrated display is a great option.

Porsche Upgrades
Extreme Audio in Mechanicsville upgraded this 2013 Boxster with a backup camera using an interface from Nav-TV.

A dashcam is another great option for adding safety to your vehicle. Whether you witness an accident or are involved in one, a dashcam automatically records everything that happens as soon as the vehicle starts. Premium solutions add rear-facing cameras and include cloud-based connectivity to let you access the camera remotely.

Radar Detector and Laser Defense Systems

With as much as 690 horsepower on tap and 0-60 times well into the two-second range, going too fast by accident is a genuine reality for Porsche owners. Even a base-model Macan will reach 60 mph in just over six seconds, and that’s no slouch. If you have a habit of letting your speed creep up, adding a radar detector and laser defense system is a worthwhile investment.

Porsche Upgrades
Certified Autosound and Security in Chilliwack, British Columbia, molded the control panel from an Escort MAX Ci 360 into the center console of this 2018 911 Turbo S.

Radar detectors are tuned to monitor the area in front of and behind your vehicle for specific radio-frequency signals produced by police radar guns. Even at long distances, you’ll get a warning that radar is in use and have enough time to check your speed and proceed safely.

Porsche Upgrades
K40 Laser Defusers mounted in the front Grille of a 2019 Porsche 911 GTS by Westminster Speed and Sound.

Police forces across the nation are switching to lidar systems because of their speed and accuracy. A police laser (lidar) gun can target a vehicle and take a speed reading in less than half a second. This impressive speed makes it impossible for you to react. A laser defense system transmits a scrambled signal back to the police laser gun and prevents it from taking a reading. Once you are certain you are driving at a safe speed, you can cancel the transmission and allow the officer to take another reading. Executed properly, you’ll be allowed to carry on with your drive.

Porsche Security Systems and Vehicle Tracking Solutions

Sadly, Porsches are highly sought-after by criminals. In some cities, a car can be stolen and in a container on its way overseas in less than an hour. Nobody wants to walk out their front door to find their pride and joy missing. A security system, especially one with a two-way remote control, will alert you when someone is tampering with your vehicle. Most security systems include shock sensors but you can upgrade with glass breakage sensors and tilt/motion sensors. A tilt sensor is a great way to prevent wheel theft.

Porsche Upgrades
Vehicle tracking and control systems like DroneMobile from Firstech help ensure that you are always in touch with your vehicle.

If you fear that thieves will simply ignore the sound of an alarm siren and don’t care if you come out of the office or your home to stop them, then you may want to look into a vehicle tracking solution. A small module that combines GPS locating can show you the position of your vehicle to within a few yards, right on the screen of your smartphone. In a time where thieves carry all manner of deadly weapons, it might be safer to let them take your car, then call the police and let them retrieve the vehicle.

Window Tint and Paint Protection Film

Many mobile enhancement retailers offer window tint and paint protection film installation services. Having your windows tinted can dramatically improve the appearance of your Porsche while helping conceal items stored inside. Premium ceramic window films block up to 60% of the UV energy from the sun to help keep the interior of the vehicle cool.

If you take your Porsche to the track, protecting the front of the vehicle from stone chips and rubber debris can be a full-time job. Having paint protection film installed on the vehicle serves as a protective layer between these objects and the fragile paint on the vehicle.

Porsche Upgrades
This 911 is fresh off the track and covered in grease, tire rubber and the remnants of slow-moving bugs.

Paint protection film is a thin but incredibly strong urethane that absorbs impacts and prevents scratches. In fact, some of these films have self-healing properties that can absorb small scuffs and scrapes to keep your Porsche looking like new.

Upgrade Your Porsche Today

Hundreds of options, from simple amp and speaker upgrades to elaborate audiophile-grade sound systems, are available to enhance your Porsche. WeatherTech Floor mats, radar detectors, power USB plugs and much more are available from your local specialist mobile enhancement retailer. Drop by today and find out what they can do to upgrade your Porsche.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Filed Under: ARTICLES, Backup Safety, Car Audio, Radar Detectors, Remote Car Starters, RESOURCE LIBRARY, Window Tint

Pre-Owned Vehicle Backup Camera and Safety Systems

Backup CameraBack over accidents are responsible for more than 200 deaths and 12,000 injuries each year. The US Congress passed a law in 2008 that would enact measures to use technology to prevent accidents like these. After years of delays, the US Department of Transportation finally announced that new cars must come with a backup camera.

But what if you own or have recently purchased an older vehicle? Can you add a backup camera to an older car, truck or SUV? You most certainly can! In this article, we’ll explain how several different accident prevention and safety systems can make parking and maneuvering your vehicle safer.

What is a Backup Camera System?

Backup CameraIn the simplest of terms, a backup camera system includes a video screen within view of the driver that displays an image of the area behind the vehicle when the transmission is in reverse. The camera on the back of the vehicle will be mounted in a location that lets the driver detect objects or people that are normally blocked by the trunk or hatch. In essence, a backup camera system is like having a spotter behind your vehicle telling you if there is anything in your way.

All backup camera systems that have been integrated into the vehicle properly function without any input from the driver. The wiring in the car provides a signal to the camera system as soon as the transmission selector is put into reverse. There are no switches or buttons to press.

The image displayed on the screen mimics that of your rear-view mirror regarding left-right orientation. When looking at the screen, objects on the right of the screen are the right side of the vehicle and vice versa. As we are used to this perspective, it makes using a rear vision camera system much safer.

Rear Vision Camera System Integration

Backup CameraMost factory-installed cameras are mounted above the license plate on a car or in the handle or tailgate emblem of a truck. Aftermarket camera solutions are available to mimic these installation locations. Many vehicles like the Mercedes Sprinter, Ford F-150 and GMC Silverado and Chevy Sierra have aftermarket solutions that look identical to factory offerings. The cameras are water resistant and carry an IP66 (or higher) dust and water intrusion rating. This IP rating means that the cameras can withstand going through the car wash or exposure to the everyday challenges Mother Nature throws their way. Universal cameras are available in surface and flush mount applications. Your mobile enhancement retailer can help you choose the right style for your application.

Camera Quality

Just as when you go shopping for a video or still camera, lens and image sensor quality play a significant role in determining the quality of the image you will see. Inexpensive cameras from the local auto parts or big box store may not respond quickly to changes in image brightness and often can’t handle high-contrast situations. Higher quality cameras offer more resolution to help you see small or narrow objects behind your vehicle.

Video Image Display Options

There are four popular options available to display the camera image inside your vehicle. As we mentioned, all of these displays operate automatically without the need for any input from the driver.

1. Factory Color Display

Backup CameraIf your car or truck came with a color display for the factory radio or infotainment system, there are many companies that offer premium integration modules that allow the image from the backup camera to be displayed on this screen. Using a factory screen is the most integrated of solutions and truly mimics a factory-installed system.

Many interfaces have additional camera inputs for forward-facing and blind spot monitoring camera options. Talk to your retailer to find out what is available for your application.

2. Replacement Rearview Mirror with Integrated Display

Backup CameraIf your vehicle doesn’t have a color screen, another popular option to display a camera image is a replacement rearview mirror that features an integrated color display. When the camera is not in use, the mirror looks normal and will show you what is happening behind your vehicle. When you put the transmission in reverse, a compact LCD screen shines through the mirrored surface to display the camera image. While typically small in size (around 4 inches diagonally), they work very well and are quite popular.

3. Aftermarket Multimedia Radio

Backup CameraA popular upgrade for older vehicles is to replace the radio with an aftermarket unit that includes a color display. You can choose from simple AM/FM multimedia receivers costing only a few hundred dollars up to state-of-the-art systems with integrated navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration and even vehicle integration and control options. These systems typically include at least one camera input to show what is behind your vehicle. Some will overlay information from factory-installed parking sensor systems for increased safety.

4. Stand-Alone Monitor

Backup CameraIf none of the above options suit your application or you require a larger screen, then consider having a stand-alone monitor installed in your vehicle. Commercial applications such as tow trucks, snow plows, garbage trucks, recycling trucks and delivery vehicles often choose a stand-alone monitor. The image is large, and the unit can be placed in a convenient location.

Additional Safety System Options

As we mentioned, the addition of a forward-facing camera is another popular option for large vehicles like 1-ton trucks where it is difficult to see curbs or even other vehicles over the large hood. In most applications, a button or switch would activate this forward-facing camera for parking purposes. These cameras are also great for making sure these large vehicles are parked as close as possible to the wall in a parking garage to reduce how far they stick out into traffic.

Backup CameraMany luxury vehicles combine a parking sensor system with a backup camera. The advantage of adding parking sensors is that they are an active safety device. You don’t need to remember to pay attention to them – they alert you to the presence of an object. Parking sensor systems can be installed in most cars, trucks and SUVs. Many solutions include options for forward-facing sensors.

Find out More About Rear Vision Cameras Today

If you’ve ever had a close call, or simply want to avoid the risk of damage to your vehicle or injury to a bystander, visit your local mobile enhancement retailer today. You’ll be able find out what options are available to add a backup camera system to your new or used vehicle.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Filed Under: ARTICLES, Backup Safety, RESOURCE LIBRARY

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