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If you own a BMW X3 made prior to 2018, your luxury crossover might not feature a rearview camera. Fortunately, you can easily retrofit this bestselling SUV with a BMW X3 backup camera. Use this guide to find the model with the features you need for a safer drive. We review the most popular choices along with recommendations from researchers at Autoweek and Car and Driver. These cameras meet National Highway and Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) requirements for durability, viewing angle, and response time.
What Is a BMW X3 Backup Camera?
As the name suggests, a backup camera allows you to see behind your vehicle when you put your car in reverse. Because this safety feature has been shown to dramatically reduce reversing-related collisions, the NHTSA requires all new cars manufactured in the United States after 2018 to have integrated rearview cameras. Benefits of adding an aftermarket camera to your BMW X3 include:
- Significantly reduced risk of reversing accidents, including collisions with pedestrians.
- Improved image quality.
- Added features such as night vision, parking guidelines, and split-screen images.
- Better safety when towing a trailer or vehicle.
- Expanded rear view for better visibility.
- Easier parking.
- Recording features that provide documentation if an incident occurs.
Types of BMW X3 Backup Cameras
BMW X3 drivers must choose between wired or wireless backup cameras. The eRapta ERT03 1080P Wireless Backup Camera with Monitor is one of the highest-rated choices in the wireless category, with thousands of five-star buyer ratings on Amazon. It features a 4-by-3-inch high-definition monitor that provides a stable wireless signal without the disconnects common with Bluetooth cameras. You’ll appreciate the durable waterproof camera construction, easy installation, and crystal-clear night vision feature.
If you prefer a wired camera, try the Fookoo Ⅱ HD Wired Backup Camera System Kit, 1080P Reversing Monitor. It features a sizable 7-inch screen with the option to upgrade to a 9-inch or 10-inch version along with a roof-mounted camera, high-quality CCD sensor, parking guidelines, and lifetime 24-hour tech support. This camera for your BMW X3 also comes with an 18-month replacement service if damage or defects occur. It includes a remote and everything you need for simple home installation.
Other common types of BMW backup cameras include:
Mirror and Dash Cameras
These cameras feature a monitor that attaches to the X3’s dashboard or rearview mirror along with a separate camera to mount on the bumper. Some models integrate the camera within the monitor rather than as a separate element. The AUTO-VOX T2 Backup Camera Kit OEM Rear View Mirror Monitor is one of the top rearview camera models on Amazon, with nearly 1,000 positive buyer ratings. It offers a clear, crisp image, LED lights for enhanced night vision, and an IP69-rated waterproof camera. The replacement rearview mirror matches your X3’s existing mirror for a factory appearance and installs with a single wire.
License Plate Cameras
License plate cameras mount behind the car either as a frame around the license plate or with a separate strap. These cameras offer an extra-low viewing angle. In this category, we recommend the Pixelman HD Backup Camera, which features a 170-degree wide-angle lens and waterproof metal housing. This model also offers easy home installation with just two brackets. It comes with a three-year warranty, 30-day money-back guarantee, and dedicated customer support.
Individual Cameras
Individual cameras are small units without a display or mounting hardware. These cameras often require professional installation.
How to Choose a BMW X3 Backup Camera
Check customer reviews to learn about the quality of various backup camera models. For example, the AUTO-VOX CS-2 Wireless Backup Camera Kit has nearly 3,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. It offers a stable digital signal that pairs the mounted camera with a 4.3-inch digital monitor. The 110-degree angle offers exceptional parking accuracy, and the waterproof camera has the durability to resist extreme weather.
The monitor’s suction cups offer a secure mount on your SUV’s dashboard or windshield. AUTO-VOX offers 24-hour customer service support, a 30-day money-back guarantee, and a one-year warranty on this product.
The DoHonest wireless backup camera is another selection with thousands of positive customer ratings. This model features a 5-inch monitor, a digital wireless transmission signal for a stable and interference-free picture, easy license plate installation, waterproof camera housing, and crystal-clear 1080p high-definition images. Customers can access 24-hour customer support from professional technicians, a 45-day money-back guarantee, and a two-year warranty.
You might also want a model that offers more than one option for mounting your camera. For example, the RAAYOO L002 HD 170-Degree Wide-Angle Universal Car Front/Side/Rear View Camera comes with both flush mounting and bracket mounting hardware. This Amazon’s Choice award winner boasts more than 3,000 five-star ratings. Fans love the expansive picture the high-definition wide-angle lens provides, the removable guidelines, and the ability to toggle from a front to rear image. This wired camera requires a 12V power outlet and comes with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee, a one-year warranty, and access to 24-hour customer support.
If you prefer a larger monitor, consider the AMTIFO A6 Wireless Backup Camera HD 1080P Kit with Stable Digital Signal, which has hundreds of positive Amazon ratings. This camera kit comes with an 5-inch monitor you can switch between standard or split-screen view at the push of a button, 1080p HD resolution, removable guidelines, easy DIY installation, and a two-year warranty. Thanks to digital wireless technology, you’ll get an excellent interference-free picture.
How to Install BMW X3 Backup Cameras
Disclaimer: The guidelines in this story are general and not meant to replace instructions for your specific vehicle. Please consult your owner’s manual or repair guide before attempting repairs
Each camera has its own installation requirements depending on the model you select. However, most BMW X3 backup cameras are designed for DIY installation. You can also have your camera installed by your trusted mechanic or BMW dealer.
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