Are backup cameras required on new vehicles?
Wondering are backup cameras required on new vehicles? As of May 2018, all manufacturers in the U.S. are required to put a reversing camera on new vehicles. Some insurance companies will actually give you a safety feature discount if your car has a backup camera, as these cameras help save lives.
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Laura D. Adams
Insurance & Finance Analyst
Laura Adams is one of the nation’s leading finance, insurance, and small business authorities. As an award-winning author, spokesperson, and host of the top-rated Money Girl podcast since 2008, millions of readers and listeners benefit from her practical advice. Her mission is to empower consumers to live healthy and rich lives by planning for the future and making smart money decisions. She rec...
Insurance & Finance Analyst
UPDATED: Sep 3, 2024
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Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Sep 3, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
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Are all new cars required to have a backup camera? Yes, beginning May 1, 2018, all new cars sold in the U.S. must be cars with backup cameras. Because cars have blind spots where the rearview mirrors can’t see, having backup cameras required by law adds a layer of protection that ensures you have a full view of your surroundings.
There are many positive benefits to backup cameras, including the potential for auto insurance discounts. If you’re in the market for a new car, read on to learn more about backup camera laws and how they affect you. Then, you can shop around for the best new car insurance rates using our free quote comparison tool.
- As of 2018, backup cameras are required for all vehicles in the US
- There are currently no insurance discounts for having backup cameras installed
- Backup cameras for cars save dozens of lives, especially those of children and seniors
Backup Cameras are Required for New Vehicles
The backup camera law went into effect in May 2018 and requires that every new vehicle has a backup camera and video display. This means that even cars with the lowest auto insurance premiums are now required to have backup cameras.
Learn more: Which cars have the lowest auto insurance premiums?
The goal of making backup cameras mandatory is to save the lives of children and seniors in particular.
Some have criticized the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for not acting sooner, but now that there are backup cameras required by law, there should be far fewer fatal accidents related to reversing a vehicle.
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Backup Camera Auto Insurance Discounts
The short answer is no, you can’t find cheap car insurance with a backup camera. Currently, there are no auto insurance discounts for having a backup camera.
However, you might earn a safety features discount if you have a backup camera because, technically, it does make your car safer, which some companies reward with a discount.
The same goes for anti-lock brakes. Many insurance companies give a small anti-lock brakes auto insurance discount to them. Cars made after 2012 were legally required to come equipped with anti-lock brake systems, so any newer car will have them as well.
Can You Install a Backup Camera on a Car
Can you add a backup camera to a car that doesn’t have one? Are cars required to have backup cameras installed if they do not already have one?
No, you don’t have to have a backup camera on cars built before the law went into effect. But you can install a rear view camera in your car if you’d like.
Backup camera installation in a vehicle that doesn’t have one can be an alternative solution to getting a whole new car. If you already own a car that doesn’t have a backup camera, you should know that backup cameras can be installed on older cars for a decent price. Just look for a car backup camera installation near you and you’d be fine.
However, if you’ve purchased your car in the last few years, it should already come equipped with one. If you don’t know how to use it, ask your car dealer or look up a video on YouTube.
Best Backup Camera for Your Car That Meets Backup Camera Legal Requirements
For those wanting to add a backup camera to their car, these cameras are some of the best models on the market:
- Auto-Vox CS2. Rated best overall
- DoHonest S4. Rated best wireless rearview mirror model
- Auto-Vox Solar1
- LeeKooLuu LK3B. Best for a savvy DIYer
- Garmin BC 30. Best for drivers who use a Garmin GPS Navigator
Do some research and figure out which one would be best back up camera for your vehicle.
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How Backup Cameras Improve Your Line of Sight
The backup camera on many new model vehicles, such as those on Cadillac models 2015 and higher, can help improve the field of vision by 300% compared to a traditional rear-view mirror.
Also, these cameras can eliminate any obstructions in vision caused by pillars, passengers, or seats that typically cause blind spots for drivers when they’re backing up.
Many backup cameras offer high-definition displays designed to increase the line of sight for rear lanes and maximize visibility at night or in adverse weather conditions. Most modern backup cameras also combine high-definition video with rear automatic braking systems, which helps increase safety even more.
A Final Word About Mandatory Backup Cameras
While backup cameras are required on new vehicles, having one won’t get you a discount on your car insurance. However, things change all the time, and comparing quotes can help you save the most money on your car insurance.
Drivers with additional safety features installed on their vehicles, including reversing cameras, should compare auto insurance rates by make and model to get the lowest quotes possible. Use our comparison tool below to get free quotes from local companies near you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are backup cameras required on new vehicles?
Yes, backup cameras are now required on new vehicles in many countries, including the United States and Canada. This requirement is aimed at improving safety by reducing accidents and preventing injuries or fatalities that can occur when drivers are reversing their vehicles.
Why are backup cameras mandatory?
The requirement for backup cameras is driven by the need to address blind spots and improve rear visibility for drivers. Many accidents occur when drivers unintentionally strike pedestrians, objects, or other vehicles while reversing. Backup cameras provide a clear view of the area behind the vehicle, enhancing safety and reducing the risk of such accidents.
When did backup cameras become mandatory?
So, when were backup cameras mandated? In the United States, the requirement for backup cameras on new vehicles was introduced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and became effective on May 1, 2018. This means that cars built after 2018 are required to have a backup camera.
Are all cars required to have a backup camera?
The requirement for backup cameras typically applies to new passenger vehicles, trucks, buses, and multipurpose passenger vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 10,000 pounds or less. However, it is advisable to check the specific regulations of your country or region to determine if backup cameras are mandatory for all vehicles.
What are the benefits of having backup cameras for vehicles?
The benefits of having a backup camera in a car include:
- Increased safety and reduced risk of accidents while reversing.
- Enhanced visibility of blind spots behind the vehicle.
- Improved awareness of pedestrians, objects, and other vehicles in the rear area.
- Prevention of injuries or fatalities caused by backing-up accidents.
- Easier maneuvering in tight spaces or parking lots.
Are rear view mirror cameras legal?
Generally, rear view car cameras that are integrated into a vehicle’s existing mirror or added as an accessory are legal in many states because they are considered safety devices.
Can I put a backup camera in my car?
Yes, you can add a backup camera to a car to enhance the safety of the vehicle. If you want to choose the right backup camera for a car, it’s important to find a backup camera that suits your vehicle type and personal preference.
What car had the first backup camera?
The first car to feature a backup camera was the 1991 Toyota Soarer Limited, sold in Japan.
Can you rely solely on backup cameras?
While backup cameras are a valuable tool for enhancing safety when reversing, it’s not advisable to rely solely on them. Sometimes, the backup camera might not be working due to electrical issues, damage, or system malfunctions, so relying solely on the camera could be a problem.
Can you turn off a back up camera?
In most vehicles, the backup camera is designed to activate automatically when you shift into reverse and turns off when you switch out of reverse. Generally, there isn’t a built-in option to manually turn off the backup camera while it’s needed for reversing due to safety regulations.
Can you use backup camera on a driving test?
Technically you can use a backup camera during a driving test, but can’t use it as your primary line of sight.
Where to a buy backup camera for my car?
You can buy a buy a reverse camera from Amazon, eBay, and other online stores. Retailers such as AutoZone and Advance Auto Parts also stock backup cameras and offer advice on installation.
Do cars that have backup cameras help prevent accidents?
Yes, cars equipped with backup cameras can help prevent accidents, particularly those that occur during reversing maneuvers. The best reverse camera for cars provide drivers with a clearer view of the area behind the vehicle, which is often difficult to see using just mirrors.
Adding a backup camera to a car is a smart investment in terms of safety and convenience.
What are the best cars with backup cameras?
Some of the best cars known for their effective backup camera systems are:
- Honda Accord
- Toyota Camry
- Hyundai Sonata
Nissan Rogue has the backup camera for an SUV.
What are the best backup cameras for trucks?
Garmin BC 35 Wireless Backup Camera is known for its quality and connectivity. This camera wirelessly transmits video up to 45 feet, and can be viewed directly on a compatible Garmin GPS navigator. It’s great for truck drivers who already use Garmin products.
On the other hand, the best backup camera for older cars is AUTO-VOX Solar Wireless Backup Camera Kit. It’s wireless and powered by a solar-rechargeable battery, reducing the need for complicated wiring.
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Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
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Laura D. Adams
Insurance & Finance Analyst
Laura Adams is one of the nation’s leading finance, insurance, and small business authorities. As an award-winning author, spokesperson, and host of the top-rated Money Girl podcast since 2008, millions of readers and listeners benefit from her practical advice. Her mission is to empower consumers to live healthy and rich lives by planning for the future and making smart money decisions. She rec...
Insurance & Finance Analyst
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.