4 Bonus Features You'll Certainly Like to Have in Your Reversing Camera in Australia

Picture quality, image sensor, camera type, waterproof and dustproof rating—there are some of the most important factors you should consider when shopping for a reversing camera in Australia. But if you want to get something extra from your car's camera system, there are certain features you should also look into. Here are some of them.

Extra Reversing Camera Features You Should Look Into

1. Automatic system switching

Unless you want to manually switch your camera on and off when reversing, this feature is something that you should look for when buying a reversing camera for your car. Automatic system switching basically allows the camera to turn on automatically every time you put your vehicle on reverse. Many rear view camera systems don't have this feature so it would give you a huge convenience and would be much safer for you if you buy one that automatically switches on.

2. Mirror image capability

Another extra feature you should look for when buying a reversing camera kit is mirror image capability. This allows the camera system to produce a mirror image through the camera and monitor so you can see the same type of image that you would normally see when you look at a rear view mirror. Another bonus is if the camera system lets you choose between a "normal" and "mirror" image and allows you to
flip or rotate the image on your monitor.

3. Audio capability

If you have a larger vehicle, like van or a caravan for instance, it helps to get a camera system that has the ability to pick up audio from your surroundings. Such camera systems are equipped with a microphone so when someone is helping you back your vehicle, you can easily hear his or her instructions. A camera system with audio capability can also be quite useful when you need to monitor the interior of a trailer, like when you're transporting people or animals.

4. Electrochromatic rear view mirror

Also known as a "mirror monitor," an electrochromatic rear view mirror replaces your car's standard rear view mirror and serves as the actual monitor for your reverse camera system. Thanks to its compact size and mounting position, an electrochromatic rear view mirror can be a definite advantage if you have limited space in your car's dashboard.

If a caravan reversing camera system doesn't specifically list the features discussed above, then it's very likely that they don't have any of these capabilities. As such, be sure to check the description of the camera you're considering buying before making your purchase.

Common Problems with Reversing Camera and How to Fix Them

Sometimes, even the best reversing camera can experience problems from time to time. But before you panic and decide to get rid of your existing camera for good, you might want to try to fix it first. After all, not all problems with reversing cameras are serious and warrant an immediately replacement. If your camera system is behaving oddly, here are some troubleshooting tips to help you out.

Quick fixes for common camera problems

1. Fuzzy and grainy images

Fuzzy and grainy images are among the most common problems with car camera systems. Surprisingly, they are the easiest to solve. If you're having a hard time seeing clear images on the screen, it is very likely that the lens is just dirty. To solve this problem: remove all the dirt and mud that have accumulated on the camera's lens. To do this, use a clean cloth to wipe the camera lens clean. Make sure the cloth is lint-free to avoid scratching the lens.

2.  Unresponsive camera system

A typical reverse camera kit switches on automatically when the you the vehicle in reverse. If yours doesn't come on even when you put your car's transmission in reverse gear, there's a chance that you have a blown fuse. In most cases, the fuse box is located under the dash board or steering wheel. There are also instances that it's in the glove box. To be sure, check your car owner's manual. When you find the fuse box, you'll see that it has a list of the fuses and their uses. Identify the one for your reversing camera and then replace it.

3. The camera system switches on but you can't see anything

If the whole camera system automatically comes on when you put the vehicle in reverse, but the camera itself seems not to be working, a loose connection might be the culprit. If you're using a wired reverse camera system in Australia, the wiring can come loose. To fix this problem, trace the wires coming of out of your camera and monitor and see which of them is loose. Secure the wire and test your camera system.

If all else fails...

If none of these quick fixes are working for you, then it's time for you to consider getting a replacement, especially if your camera system has been around for quite some time. But before you do, make sure you determine first if you need to replace the monitor, the camera, or the entire system. For example, if the monitor doesn't switch on at all, then it's the only one that needs to be replaced. But if it shows a black image, you may need to replace the entire car reversing camera system.