[hiker74]

I've noticed on some threads that the 2013 Outback has the same rear view mirror as some higher end cars i.e. Lexus. My gears were turning today and was thinking...if the Lexus has a front and rear camera for a full surround view in the mirror monitor, could the Outback be upgraded to include a front camera as well? This would help with parking as well as safety. Seems like it would be an easy upgrade?

 

[lashlee]

Though I didn't try too hard when I installed my aftermarket radio to find the signal wires at the mirror for the rear camera, the mirror doesn't seem to offer a secondary input. You could break down the signal wire for the back up camera, add a splitter, front camera and manually switch between. Or you can do the simple thing and get a upper end Kenwood that offers a front and rear camera input. I know it's much more expensive but much easier than the hassle of what I listed above.

As a side note, I've not used the front camera input but I plan on fab'ing up a bracket and mounting a camera so that I can keep tabs on my daughter in the back seat. No more mirror into mirror to see what she is doing in her car seat!!

 

[hiker74]

I also saw a square "plug" on the front bumper similar to the plugs you see on base model cars inside the car for power door locks etc, so I wonder if there is a harness in there for a camera. I will do some research. It could be a port for a giant "laser"...channeling Austin Powers

 

[seeren]

I also saw a square "plug" on the front bumper similar to the plugs you see on base model cars inside the car for power door locks etc, so I wonder if there is a harness in there for a camera. I will do some research. It could be a port for a giant "laser"...channeling Austin Powers

Behind that thing is where you screw in the tow hook.

 

[lrjet55]

How would you mount it where it doesn't get road grime or bugs?

 

[Latigo]

How would you mount it where it doesn't get road grime or bugs?

Yes. I installed one on my 300C when I put an SRT8 bumper on it so I wouldn't accidentally smack the lip when pulling into parking spots (not really a concern with the OB). But it will get dirty with rain, snow, or a well placed bug.

 

[hiker74]

Yes. I installed one on my 300C when I put an SRT8 bumper on it so I wouldn't accidentally smack the lip when pulling into parking spots (not really a concern with the OB). But it will get dirty with rain, snow, or a well placed bug.

I haven't thought about that. With the wet snowy winter we are expecting here probably not a great idea

 

[Latigo]

Meh, just keep a wet wipe handy. I also put a little extra silicone around the camera edges just in case.