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2005 Outback Backup Camera Install Questions

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9.3K views 5 replies 3 participants last post by  freeskier44  
#1 ·
Hey everyone.
I ordered a license plate backup camera from Ebay and before it arrives I want to clear some questions I have up.

I have a Pioneer AVH-P4200 installed and I need to know where the reverse wire is that I need to hook it up to. (So it can detect my car is in reverse)

I also need to be pointed to where a constant 12v wire (even when my lights are off) is towards the back of my car. I want the camera to always have power so I can view it up front anytime.

Last thing, do I need to fuse the backup camera? It doesn't come with a fuse and the camera only draws 60mA

Thank you everyone! Any comments or help is very appreciated.
 
#2 ·
All I can add is, possible constant power could be the dome light above. This is what my 2012 mod is, not sure about ur 2005. I just tapped onto the rear backup light for camera reverse power. Easy to pull a wires from front dome light to rear dome light, then feed through existing door harness flex tube/ down the side rear window to plate area. All rear door trim must be removed, worst part is the outside handle screw cover cap! To run reverse from radio area, you will be better off going down through floor area, but no idea how easy it will be to fish to back ceiling area, to access the rear door? Front side window trim has air bags in it, and really no room either for extra wires. (Not to mention the special replacement mounting clip needed, each time the trim is "cut off") The camera will have a loose set of wires, these are for the "led lits", to lite up the license plate/ not stated in the instructions. The camera power has the jack on it. I used a relay to control the led lights, to power on only when headlights are on, and reverse mood. Just extending the life of them, but had to mount the camera to the left of plate, just like oem, because I chose to leave the camera led lites unpowered, when not in reverse. After thought, I may have just used it as intended, to replace one license plate lite. Used a 3 amp fuse, concern is to protect wire and not camera.
 
#4 ·
If the camera only draws 60mA, you could go with the smallest fuse you can find (1A, 500mA, 250mA, or smaller if they have it).

Since your Pioneer won't display the picture without you turning the key at least to Accessory, I recommend using +12V Accessory to power the camera. That way it won't help to drain your battery 24x7.

Don't 2005 models have a rear accessory outlet? That would be a great place to tap. Otherwise, find the 2005 wiring diagrams and see if there's anything else with +12V Acc. lurking in the rear.