On March 31, 2014, the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) finalized regulations meant to reduce automotive “backing accidents”. According to the federal agency, backing accidents result in 15,000 injuries a year and 210 deaths. The regulation sets a 2018 deadline for rearview monitoring technology to be standard on all passenger vehicles sold in the United States.
Even without the 2018 federal regulation, today they are becoming more and more common. For the 2014 model year, 46 percent of vehicles sold in the United States include back-up cameras. Considering a car with one now, here’s what you need to know about how they work and how effective they are.
No longer a high-ticket item
NHTSA estimates that adding back-up cameras and displays that comply with the new 2018 regulations will cost manufacturers $132-$142 more per vehicle, or $43-$45 for vehicles with an existing screen that can display the required image. Perhaps in anticipation of the mandatory-equipment regulation, rearview systems are migrating down from manufacturers’ top models and trim levels.
Back-up cameras do help prevent accidents
In one recent study, close to 57 percent of drivers in vehicles equipped with back-up cameras avoided backing over a stationary object that had been placed behind the vehicle when they weren’t looking. This is a smaller object that wouldn’t be seen in side or rearview mirrors. Picture a small child.
Adding a back-up camera is fairly easily
You don’t need to buy a new car to get a back-up camera. Many retailers sell aftermarket backup camera systems. A complete setup with a camera, transmitter and display typically runs $100 to $300. Installing a back-up camera on an existing car isn’t very difficult. Some require only a screwdriver, while others require a drill to mount the camera into a rear bumper cover. Some aftermarket camera makers post videos on their Web sites to help DIYers with step-by-step set up instructions. Many auto parts retailers can do installations for you, in addition.
They require a small amount of maintenance
Whether they’re factory installed or aftermarket equipment, rearview cameras don’t need much more maintenance than a periodic wipe-down to clear away accumulated grime from the camera lens. In heavy rain or snow, it is suggested that you check before you drive off to make sure the lens isn’t obscured..