Do Jeep Wranglers Have a Backup Camera?
Does Jeep Wrangler have backup camera? What should I do if I need a model with no rear camera? These are the most asked questions when it comes to the safety of these off-roading vehicles. Fortunately, every jeep wrangler released after 2018 contains a built-in backup camera that helps you in reversing it.
These cameras are mostly preferred because of their increased field of view, negligible blind spots, high durability, and ability to function properly in extreme atmospheric conditions. This article offers you some insights into whether or not a jeep wrangler has a backup camera along with a few technical details regarding the installation and maintenance of these devices. Also check out the best backup cameras for jeep wranglers.
Does Jeep Wrangler Have a Backup Camera?
With advancements in technology and improvements in the manufacturing industry, cars and jeeps have been equipped with the highest level of safety standards that help you drive safely in multiple terrain types without any underlying concern. Certainly, jeep wranglers have evolved over the years as well. The vehicle was first introduced as a two-door off-roading jeep in the 20th century, however, it was later on transformed into a four-door vehicle alongside the modification of the fueling system and other important components.
The four-door version was capable of off-roading on different types of terrains and was more robust than its predecessor. However, the question remains whether, after all these advancements, present-day Jeep wranglers possess backup cameras or not? But, before we begin the discussion, let’s first have a look at the brief introduction to the backup cameras.
Everything You Need to Know About the Backup Camera
Backup cameras also referred to as rear view cameras are responsible for allowing you to have full access to the vision to the back of your vehicle. Originally, before the introduction of these cameras, rear view mirrors were used for this purpose. These mirrors allowed the drivers to look at the vehicles and other objects behind their cars and drive safely, especially in congested areas.
But, recently these mirrors have been replaced by backup cameras that are located near the windshield and are connected to the screen located under the dashboard of your vehicle. Thus, offering you full access to the view at the back and enabling you to take timely actions whenever required. Almost all the cars manufactured these days come with a rearview camera instead of the rearview mirror and are relatively easier to operate.
Advantages of Having Backup Cameras in Your Vehicle
There are a number of benefits associated with the installation of backup cameras in your vehicle as opposed to the rearview mirrors. Over the years, it has been identified that rearview mirrors often obstruct the view of the driver mainly because of various obstacles present at the back like people, objects, etc. In addition to this, mirrors often become a problem when there is a lot of fog and mist in the surroundings.
This is because these natural phenomena often lead to blurring of the mirror which significantly reduces the visibility to a great extent. Thus, leading to serious accidents in severe cases. However, all these problems can be solved by using a backup camera. This is because these devices are located outside of the car and are not affected by the people sitting in the car. Therefore, you get a large field of view without any obstruction and can drive safely.
In addition to this, these cameras are also not prone to getting foggy due to heavy rain, especially in colder regions, and reduce the chance of accidents to a great extent. Last but not least, the backup cameras are also capable of eliminating the blind spots which is often the issue with most drivers using the rearview mirrors, and help you navigate effectively with utmost accuracy and precision.
Backup Cameras in Jeep Wranglers
Now that I have carefully explained the use and advantages of rearview cameras, it is time to address the basic question of whether the jeep wranglers have backup cameras or not? Well, previously when the vehicle was first introduced in the market, it involved the use of rearview cameras similar to the majority of the other related vehicles.
However, within the past few years, all the jeep wranglers have been integrated with backup cameras. Though some previous models might still use a rearview mirror. On average every jeep wrangler you will see in the market these days will definitely be equipped with a backup camera to help you navigate in a proper manner especially when you are off-roading and it is important to carefully analyze your surroundings before moving ahead.
Maintenance of Backup Cameras
Maintenance of a backup camera is highly important and must be carried out on a regular basis to avoid issues associated with durability and vision. Since the majority of the backup cameras are installed outside of the car, they are constructed with high-quality materials and display exceptional durability. In addition to this, they are also resistant to shattering and will not break easily even when exposed to intense atmospheric conditions.
However, this does not mean that they should not be looked after properly. You should clean them on a regular basis to avoid them getting dirty because of the ice and other debris that might have covered the camera during off-roading. The mud and ice can block the lens and can hinder your view while driving. Cleaning the lens will help you increase visibility and is relatively easier to achieve.
For cleaning, it is recommended to first disintegrate the camera and then wash the camera area with clean water. Be careful not to let the water enter the internal mechanism of the camera. After washing properly, dry the camera with a clean cloth and place it in a dry area for some time before attaching it back to the jeep wrangler.
Installation of Backup Cameras in Old Models
Although the majority of the jeep wranglers you would come across these days are integrated with backup cameras, however, there is a chance you might end up purchasing an old model that does not contain a rearview camera, instead, the vehicle is integrated with a rearview mirror as in the past. What should be done in this condition? Well, the easiest way is to replace the rearview mirrors with backup cameras. However, selecting a suitable backup camera for your vehicle can be challenging especially if you operate a jeep wrangler.
There are a variety of factors that need to be taken into account before making a decision and proceeding with the installation. However, after you have successfully rated the camera on all those factors and have purchased the most suitable one, the next step involves installation. This can be carried out with the help of various installation kits available in the market. The kits are relatively easier to use and therefore, you do not need any technician for the installation of the camera.
In addition to this, the majority of these kits are universal in nature and can be used with different types of vehicles without any performance issues. Sometimes new users find it difficult to organize and install all the wires that come with the backup cameras. Previously this was an issue, however, these days Bluetooth and wireless functionality have offered a perfect solution for this as well.
You can install the camera near the license plate and insert the screen near the dashboard in front of the driver. This offers you easy access to the screen and higher visibility. Then connect your camera and screen with each other using the Bluetooth functionality. But, one thing that must be kept in mind in this regard is that Bluetooth is only functional for small-scale navigation and might not be useful for long-distance traveling.
Another thing that is worth noticing in this regard is that the camera is energy and power-efficient and is powered by the Jeep itself. This means that it is only turned on when you move the vehicle in the reverse direction. Thus, allowing you to see the surroundings on the screen located in front of the driver. Once you have properly reversed your jeep, the camera becomes inactive again and stops using the power from your vehicle. Then, it again turns on when there is a need for reversing and vice versa.
Despite reading all this information, if you are still not confident about installing the backup camera by yourself, you can always seek professional help. This can be carried out in any garage or the showroom from where you have purchased your vehicle. The majority of these garages have professional technicians who can easily install the camera within an hour without any difficulty.
Jeep Wrangler Models with Backup Cameras
This section deals with some of the Jeep Wrangler models that come with a backup camera already installed in the system. The majority of these models were released after 2018 when it became mandatory to install rear view cameras to decrease the number of accidents that occur due to poor visibility and obstructed field of view because of the rear-view mirrors.
Some common examples of such vehicles include Jeep Wrangler Sport S, Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, Jeep Wrangler Sport, Jeep Wrangler Moab, and Jeep Wrangler Sahara. All these vehicles are perfect for off-roading on different types of terrains and do not display poor performance in terms of shock absorption or rearview.
Apart from this, various older models were also updated in terms of fuel injection, comfort, and precision and were also integrated with rearview cameras to help the drivers achieve higher accuracy while driving and reduce the number of accidents to a great extent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Install A Backup Camera Without A Screen In My Jeep Wrangler?
No, there is no point in installing a backup camera without a screen. The basic purpose of the screen is to help you view what the camera is recording. If there is no screen present in the system, you will not be able to view the back of the car and might end up colliding with obstacles while reversing the vehicle. The majority of the rearview camera kits available in the market include screens alongside the cameras, so, you do not need to purchase them individually. Moreover, you can also reduce the overall cost using this technique.
Are Backup Cameras Mandatory?
Yes, it is necessary for US citizens to have a backup camera installed in their vehicle as a standard safety practice against road accidents. Though it is not compulsory, the majority of the authorities recommend using a backup camera to increase the safety of your vehicle. If your vehicle does not contain a pre-installed backup camera, you can install it by yourself using the specialized installation kit that is relatively easier to use and does not require any technical help.
Are Backup Cameras The Same As Rearview Cameras?
Yes, backup cameras and rearview cameras are the two names for the same device and are indeed similar. These are a perfect alternative to the rearview mirrors that were previously used in cars and jeeps to help the driver look at the back while reversing the car. However, nowadays backup cameras are used to capture the view of the back which can be seen on a screen located inside the car. The rearview cameras have revolutionized car safety procedures and offer increased protection against accidents.
Wrapping Up
Jeep wranglers were first introduced as simple vehicles that were suitable for off-roading and featured two doors. However, with the recent advancements, these vehicles have transformed a lot in terms of fuel injection, off-roading precision, engine options, transmission systems, and the use of the rear camera.
Backup cameras were first introduced in 2018 and were installed in almost all models released at that time and after 2018. Some improvements have also been carried out in the older models. These cameras are highly advantageous when it comes to navigation and offer you an increased field of view with reduced blurring or blind spots.
Hi! This is Marcus Adams, an adventurer who has a passion for jeeps. I have been exploring terrains for about 10 years and has trailed on a variety of jeeps. My passion for off-roading has allowed me to learn everything jeeps have to offer. Now, I have turned his passion into a professional project in form of this SMOOTHDRIVES website, where I plan to share my expertise about all kinds of off-roading accessories for jeeps, trucks and SUV’s and provide readers with high-quality content.