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2013 Prius C 3 reverse - backup camera replacement.

Discussion in 'Prius c Care, Maintenance and Troubleshooting' started by Ponzu, Apr 20, 2024.

  1. Ponzu

    Ponzu New Member

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    Hi
    Newbie. We have 2013 C 3 with non-functioning reverse camera. Original is a Post-market camera installed by dealer when purchased; seems no 'stock' camera on this make. Now, no dealers say they can fix. High-end car audio shop says: "3" is unique; we will need new camera, adapter, and, radio! $900 !! I see there's a 'plug and play' for $90 but I am a doc, and all thumbs with this. any suggestions? Thank you!
     
  2. PriusCamper

    PriusCamper Senior Member

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    Yeah Toyota dealerships won't work on aftermarket products like that. And there's been huge advances in rear view cameras / dashcams that mount in place of your rear view mirror in the past 10 years... These devices that often run on Android were close to $500 a 1/2 dozen years ago are now selling for less than $100. Many have wireless cameras so the install is super easy.
     
  3. Leadfoot J. McCoalroller

    Leadfoot J. McCoalroller Senior Member

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    The c did not have a camera from the factory until the 2018 model year, when it became a federal requirement.

    There are several ways of skinning this cat- you can install the 2018 factory parts, but that is pretty expensive. Cheaper to install another aftermarket camera and troubleshoot its interface to your existing stereo head unit.

    Replacing the whole head unit with aftermarket is a nuke-it-from-orbit solution. Yes, it'll work. It'll probably also get you other good things too. But you can probably restore rear vision video with a smaller reach.
     
    #3 Leadfoot J. McCoalroller, Apr 21, 2024
    Last edited: Apr 21, 2024
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  4. Ponzu

    Ponzu New Member

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    Great.Thank you! I noticed two on web as you mentioned. [unsure why audio shop didn't recommend, tho' I imagine he wanted to "upsell"] "Camera Source and "Reverse Camera" sites. $90. "Backup Camera Kit Compatible with Toyota Entune/Display Audio". ...I doubt I could install. Any thoughts as to what type of shop could do? Again, thank you!
     
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  5. PriusCamper

    PriusCamper Senior Member

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    And soon as you start talking camera, you're gonna want something as new and advanced as possible, simply because of how amazing and affordable the designs are right now...

    And I sure wish there were some honest reviews for rearview mirror dash cam gear... But Wolfbox is spending so heavily in the market they show up as number one in ways that make you think there's no competition.

    IMHO This type of gear is going to be the most ideal way to integrate all the most advance technology into older cars without changing their look too much. Just did some more research and found these links:

    WOLFBOX G900 4K+2.5K Touch Screen Parking Monitoring Dash Cam

    Best Rear View Mirror Cameras

    Best front and rear dash cams in 2024 | Digital Camera World
     
  6. PriusCamper

    PriusCamper Senior Member

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    See links above.... It's a super easy installation. Maybe find an auto detailer or friend or family member to do it for you. It's just hiding wires, not much more than that...
     
  7. Leadfoot J. McCoalroller

    Leadfoot J. McCoalroller Senior Member

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    It is likely you'll still get the best result from an autosound shop, though some independent mechanics could handle this pretty easily as well.

    That first one was probably just an honest attempt at an upsell- either go back and push down on them or try another shop and maybe hold the reins tighter during the pitch.
     
  8. Ponzu

    Ponzu New Member

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    Thanks, Leadfoot. My trustworthy auto mechanic suggested, to my surprise, Best Buy. Indeed, after contacting them, they apparently install backup cameras. An online seller has kit touted to fit our Prius C-3. You're right: tighter reins on a maverick shop's horse makes sense, though I think a camel bazaar metaphor may better fit. Again, I appreciate your knowledge and wisdom. This Prius is my cowgirl's- I'm a chevy and honda guy - and seems all woes are electrical......