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Backup vision - help please

2K views 26 replies 13 participants last post by  Ryans_JK 
#1 ·
So I just tinted my JKUs windows as dark as I could - Add that with my awful backup lights and I'm pretty much blind when backing up at night.

What should I do?

1. Brighter aux reverse lights?

2. Wired backup camera? Do I have to have dealership unlock my stereo unit for this?!

3. Wireless backup cam with separate monitor?

Which is least headaches? Most cost effective?
 
#2 ·
I will be installing the Brandmotion 9002-8838 back up camera hopefully this weekend and will then take it to a dealer to flash the computer. I can update afterwards. Total cost going this way will be about $280.00. You can buy the complete kit that Brandmotion offers 9002-8847 (i think) but it usually runs almost $500.00 but you don't have to take it to the dealer.
 
#4 ·
The most cost effective would be to add a couple of LED backup lights. I purchased these from Ebay for less than $40, and wired them into my backup lights. Easy, cheap mod that made a world of difference.


 
#16 ·
I put a hole in the top corner of my 10 Anniversary bumper so they would not get ripped of wheeling. I learned that lesson because I smashed the L bracket and 7 pin trailer plug to pieces already on rocks. I cut a hole in the bumper and have recessed it since.

I installed the switch on my Rugged Ridge A-Piller switch pod running a fuse to an LED switch, switch to a relay in the engine compartment, relay to lights. Used the bumper as a ground, found that it interferes with the radio when on. Turned out to be a good feature because I remember to turn them off, since they are not tied to any OEM lighting source. Said another way, they are independently powered from the battery.

A tip: I added a 10 fuse holder, as I have added 5 additional switches and 5 relays for lighting and accessories. It helps keep the wiring safe and clean.
 
#7 ·
I just tied them into the hot wire on the drivers side and grounded them to the frame since they are so small. My 50 inch LED bar came with a harness that included a relay but I figured these wouldn't need it. So far, no issues at all. The best cheap mod I've made to the JKU!
 
#10 ·
Just to mention that the backup lights come driven by a relay from the factory, thru a 20A fuse. Especially if you go with something that is LED, it should be able to safely drive just about any backup lights you could install.
Not to mention that the reverse lights are only burning for very short periods of time.
 
#9 ·
I did Cree led back up lamp replacement bulbs, and don't forget the rear seat headrest fold down mod!

I did the camera in the center of my spare tire mount, and used Navtool to bypass the dealer.

Jeep On
Steve
 
#18 ·
I don't want to upset any one but I find it almost insulting that you can pay >40K for a new 2017 and not get a back up camera. Then to not even have it as a option, then have the dealers rip you for a simple flash to make the radio and camera work. I wonder if the '18's will have a camera or will it be a $400 option. Sorry, it's past my bed time.
 
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#20 ·
For once, I have to agree with a mandated safety feature. Backup cameras make a lot more sense than TPMS. I mean, if you're too stupid to notice you have a partially flat tire you are to stupid to notice an idiot light on the dash. Everyone I know with a backup camera loves it!
 
#22 ·
I went with a NAV-TV unit similar to Navtool. You can get the Nav-TV unit bundled with the Brandmotion camera for $600. I then got another $25 camera off of Amazon and have both front and rear cameras for $625. The front camera is pretty awesome on the trail. I can turn on the front camera and leave it on while I'm crawling along.
 
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