DIY: Rear-View Camera under $200
Member
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 192
Likes: 4
From: NYC | NJ | FL
X4M, G80 M3
Hey folks I have a 2011 C300 w/ Command APS but no RearView Camera =\
What's the best method to get RV-Cam retrofitted as smooth as possible?
I been reading here but haven't seen anyone mention a new wireless rearview camera i saw on ebay.
Any tips on folks 08-11 cars ? Since I know the 12+ is probably different
Thx
What's the best method to get RV-Cam retrofitted as smooth as possible?
I been reading here but haven't seen anyone mention a new wireless rearview camera i saw on ebay.
Any tips on folks 08-11 cars ? Since I know the 12+ is probably different
Thx
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 1,130
Likes: 101
From: Belgium
W205
i think the only option on the 5" screen with PFL's is this veyron module (i'm using it on the COMAND)
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=261072105243&fromMakeTrack=true
my 3 cams are connected on that and it works great
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=261072105243&fromMakeTrack=true
my 3 cams are connected on that and it works great
Newbie
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
09 Mercedes C300
Has anyone tried this type of camera?
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mercedes-Benz-C-Series-Backup-Rear-View-Camera-Monitor-/400240759634?pt=Car_Audio_Video&hash=item5d30355352&vxp=mtr
If so, is there a difference it the output of the light. I mean is one side dim compared to the other.
Thanks in advance.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mercedes-Benz-C-Series-Backup-Rear-View-Camera-Monitor-/400240759634?pt=Car_Audio_Video&hash=item5d30355352&vxp=mtr
If so, is there a difference it the output of the light. I mean is one side dim compared to the other.
Thanks in advance.
Member
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 192
Likes: 4
From: NYC | NJ | FL
X4M, G80 M3
i think the only option on the 5" screen with PFL's is this veyron module (i'm using it on the COMAND)
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.d...MakeTrack=true
my 3 cams are connected on that and it works great
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.d...MakeTrack=true
my 3 cams are connected on that and it works great
Member
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 110
Likes: 0
2016 C300 4Matic Sport
BU Camera for less than $50!
Has anyone tried this type of camera?
Mercedes Benz C Series Backup Rear View Camera Monitor | eBay
If so, is there a difference it the output of the light. I mean is one side dim compared to the other.
Thanks in advance.
Mercedes Benz C Series Backup Rear View Camera Monitor | eBay
If so, is there a difference it the output of the light. I mean is one side dim compared to the other.
Thanks in advance.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/121040805929...84.m1497.l2649
For less than $50 you'll get backup camera with Guidelines (turned on in the engineering menu). See the pic attached. It's a PITA to run the cable to the front, but I ran mine at the same time that I ran new speaker/battery/amp/sub cables to the trunk for my audio upgrade.
Another recommendation is to put the camera in the default location and screw the assembly into the trunk lid mounting location making sure that you dab some primer onto the holes that were drilled for the screws. It doesn't have to be perfect as it's hidden by the trim piece.
K
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 2,119
Likes: 272
'13 GLK350 4matic,'10 C207,'15 GLA250,'07 Honda Odyssey, '18 GLE 43, '24 EQS 580
This is my next mod but I am looking for a camera that does not have the guidelines as it is way off a ugly. I like how the oem looks which is no guidelines. Does anyone can share a link where to get a camera without built-in guidelines?
Last edited by shotgun_banjo; Sep 20, 2013 at 12:27 PM.
Member
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 110
Likes: 0
2016 C300 4Matic Sport
Not a Camera Issue
The guidelines though are not a function of the camera. These are turned on or off in the Engineering Menu.
I hope this helps.
K
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MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 2,119
Likes: 272
'13 GLK350 4matic,'10 C207,'15 GLA250,'07 Honda Odyssey, '18 GLE 43, '24 EQS 580
The cameras I see at ebay all have built-in guidelines. I tried ordering the hammer camera but they don't ship to Canada. I like the guidelines but not from the built-in feature of the camera. That is the reason why I like to buy one that doesn't have a guideline as I know we can turn it on via engineering menu.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 2,119
Likes: 272
'13 GLK350 4matic,'10 C207,'15 GLA250,'07 Honda Odyssey, '18 GLE 43, '24 EQS 580
Just found a camera without guideline but now I am having trouble finding the right fakra cable. That link is gone by the way.
Member
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 110
Likes: 0
2016 C300 4Matic Sport
Member
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 134
Likes: 6
From: Connecticut
2013 C300 4MATIC Sport with P1, Bi-Xenon headlights, Navigation with backup camera, Sport Plus
Guys/Gals,
I am in the middle of collecting everything I need to get the backup camera installed and although I have read many threads and pages on the install I am still confused about which FAKRA cable to buy. Looks like there are lots of options but I want to get something that is going to make the job of connect the camera to the video in the most easiest and professional.
This is what I found on ebay which seems to be the right cable and also what someone recommended:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/110991103181...84.m1423.l2649
I want to confirm if this is the right FAKRA cable for my 2010 C300 4MATIC with MultiMedia Package and the iPod connector in the glovebox. I am not sure if I will have to unplug something from the back of the radio to connect this since I have the iPod connector already but I would rather have everything work as it does today and be able to connect the backup camera too. So maybe that requires buying a different cable...if so, please recommend.
I also have the option to get the FAKRA cable in any length I want. By default it comes in 8" long. Is that good enough or should I get it longer so that I can route it into the glovebox?
I know this topic has been discussed to death so I appreciate the help!
Ken
I am in the middle of collecting everything I need to get the backup camera installed and although I have read many threads and pages on the install I am still confused about which FAKRA cable to buy. Looks like there are lots of options but I want to get something that is going to make the job of connect the camera to the video in the most easiest and professional.
This is what I found on ebay which seems to be the right cable and also what someone recommended:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/110991103181...84.m1423.l2649
I want to confirm if this is the right FAKRA cable for my 2010 C300 4MATIC with MultiMedia Package and the iPod connector in the glovebox. I am not sure if I will have to unplug something from the back of the radio to connect this since I have the iPod connector already but I would rather have everything work as it does today and be able to connect the backup camera too. So maybe that requires buying a different cable...if so, please recommend.
I also have the option to get the FAKRA cable in any length I want. By default it comes in 8" long. Is that good enough or should I get it longer so that I can route it into the glovebox?
I know this topic has been discussed to death so I appreciate the help!
Ken
Newbie
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
C300 Sport 4Matic
Ken,
This the one I used. http://www.midcityengineering.com/vi...-rca-connector and it looks like your ebay link is for just about the same product.
It is a simple plug and play mod.
It's a Fakra to RCA cable if you are just googling around.
This the one I used. http://www.midcityengineering.com/vi...-rca-connector and it looks like your ebay link is for just about the same product.
It is a simple plug and play mod.
It's a Fakra to RCA cable if you are just googling around.
Member
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 134
Likes: 6
From: Connecticut
2013 C300 4MATIC Sport with P1, Bi-Xenon headlights, Navigation with backup camera, Sport Plus
THank you for that info! Was there something already plugged into the video input for you? I have have the iPod adapter and am wondering if i should get the splitter so i can connect the other item as well if the AUX is already being used.
Ken,
This the one I used. http://www.midcityengineering.com/vi...-rca-connector and it looks like your ebay link is for just about the same product.
It is a simple plug and play mod.
It's a Fakra to RCA cable if you are just googling around.
This the one I used. http://www.midcityengineering.com/vi...-rca-connector and it looks like your ebay link is for just about the same product.
It is a simple plug and play mod.
It's a Fakra to RCA cable if you are just googling around.
Newbie
Joined: Aug 2011
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
C300 Sport 4Matic
No, it will just plug in; I also have the iPod adapter and you do not need a splitter.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 2,119
Likes: 272
'13 GLK350 4matic,'10 C207,'15 GLA250,'07 Honda Odyssey, '18 GLE 43, '24 EQS 580
You can't do a splitter as you need to always go the engineering menu and turn off the backup camera and turn on the Aux video everytime not to mention turning off the car and waiting for a minute or two for the command to reset.
What camera are you planning to buy?
What camera are you planning to buy?
Member
Joined: Jul 2013
Posts: 110
Likes: 0
2016 C300 4Matic Sport
Guys/Gals,
I am in the middle of collecting everything I need to get the backup camera installed and although I have read many threads and pages on the install I am still confused about which FAKRA cable to buy. Looks like there are lots of options but I want to get something that is going to make the job of connect the camera to the video in the most easiest and professional.
This is what I found on ebay which seems to be the right cable and also what someone recommended:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/110991103181...84.m1423.l2649
I want to confirm if this is the right FAKRA cable for my 2010 C300 4MATIC with MultiMedia Package and the iPod connector in the glovebox. I am not sure if I will have to unplug something from the back of the radio to connect this since I have the iPod connector already but I would rather have everything work as it does today and be able to connect the backup camera too. So maybe that requires buying a different cable...if so, please recommend.
I also have the option to get the FAKRA cable in any length I want. By default it comes in 8" long. Is that good enough or should I get it longer so that I can route it into the glovebox?
I know this topic has been discussed to death so I appreciate the help!
Ken
I am in the middle of collecting everything I need to get the backup camera installed and although I have read many threads and pages on the install I am still confused about which FAKRA cable to buy. Looks like there are lots of options but I want to get something that is going to make the job of connect the camera to the video in the most easiest and professional.
This is what I found on ebay which seems to be the right cable and also what someone recommended:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/110991103181...84.m1423.l2649
I want to confirm if this is the right FAKRA cable for my 2010 C300 4MATIC with MultiMedia Package and the iPod connector in the glovebox. I am not sure if I will have to unplug something from the back of the radio to connect this since I have the iPod connector already but I would rather have everything work as it does today and be able to connect the backup camera too. So maybe that requires buying a different cable...if so, please recommend.
I also have the option to get the FAKRA cable in any length I want. By default it comes in 8" long. Is that good enough or should I get it longer so that I can route it into the glovebox?
I know this topic has been discussed to death so I appreciate the help!
Ken
The Polish cable works well and is nice quality. The right angle is important as listed above in my original post. You do have to unplug the video side of the iPod/iPhone adapter as the backup camera plugs in the same location. The cable run to the back of the car is a PITA but you can run it to the back of the radio so the cable length isn't all that important. Agree with previous post that you have to choose either AUX or Back Up Camera in Engineering menu so mine stays on Back Up Camera all of the time. You want to identify SRVC (as I recall) and then enable SRVC Guidelines all in the Engineering menu to get the guidelines. I used an inexpensive Chinese camera but I'm very pleased with the result. I also like the camera in the factory position and replaced both license plate lights with White LEDs and this provides good illumination for the camera at night.
I bought this camera:
Good luck! (not that you'll need it)
Last edited by KCaudell; Oct 31, 2013 at 04:28 PM.
Member
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 134
Likes: 6
From: Connecticut
2013 C300 4MATIC Sport with P1, Bi-Xenon headlights, Navigation with backup camera, Sport Plus
You can't do a splitter as you need to always go the engineering menu and turn off the backup camera and turn on the Aux video everytime not to mention turning off the car and waiting for a minute or two for the command to reset.
What camera are you planning to buy?
What camera are you planning to buy?
I bought this camera off of ebay mostly for the fact that its cheap and seems to have the highest resolutions out of the all that I saw: http://www.ebay.com/itm/151135310905...84.m1439.l2649
Member
Joined: Sep 2013
Posts: 134
Likes: 6
From: Connecticut
2013 C300 4MATIC Sport with P1, Bi-Xenon headlights, Navigation with backup camera, Sport Plus
Thank you for that info. So i was thinking about getting a longer FAKRA cable and routing the wire from the back of the radio into the glove box and then connecting it to the camera wire coming from the trunk in the glove box so that in the future if I have to replace anything I don't have to take the dash out again. Is that do able? I was thinking a 24" FAKRA cable would be long enough for that.
Also in regards to unplugging the video side of the ipod/iphone adapter. I will loose the ability to play video from an ipod i guess?
I bought the same camera if not similar to you...cant go wrong with a $17 camera even if it needs to be replaced a few times over the life of the car.
Thanks for the help!
Also in regards to unplugging the video side of the ipod/iphone adapter. I will loose the ability to play video from an ipod i guess?
I bought the same camera if not similar to you...cant go wrong with a $17 camera even if it needs to be replaced a few times over the life of the car.
Thanks for the help!
The Polish cable works well and is nice quality. The right angle is important as listed above in my original post. You do have to unplug the video side of the iPod/iPhone adapter as the backup camera plugs in the same location. The cable run to the back of the car is a PITA but you can run it to the back of the radio so the cable length isn't all that important. Agree with previous post that you have to choose either AUX or Back Up Camera in Engineering menu so mine stays on Back Up Camera all of the time. You want to identify SRVC (as I recall) and then enable SRVC Guidelines all in the Engineering menu to get the guidelines. I used an inexpensive Chinese camera but I'm very pleased with the result. I also like the camera in the factory position and replaced both license plate lights with White LEDs and this provides good illumination for the camera at night.
I bought this camera:
Amazon.com: HAMMER MB C/E Class Car Rear View Camera Waterproof Wide Night Vision Special Offer: Car Electronics
Good luck! (not that you'll need it)
I bought this camera:
Amazon.com: HAMMER MB C/E Class Car Rear View Camera Waterproof Wide Night Vision Special Offer: Car Electronics
Good luck! (not that you'll need it)
Super Member
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 710
Likes: 15
C63
hey guys. i believe i bought all the stuff needed to do this, but then never actually went through with trying to install it. if anyone wants all the parts, let me know and i can ship them over to you (i think i remember where i put everything and hopefully all the stuff is still there).
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 2,119
Likes: 272
'13 GLK350 4matic,'10 C207,'15 GLA250,'07 Honda Odyssey, '18 GLE 43, '24 EQS 580
for those who are still thinking of buying the ebay cams. I have a few pointers for you.
1. Go buy the ebay cam....worth it.
2. Make sure to remove the old weather strip gasket of the old license plate bulb cover and reuse it to have a proper seal and secure fit
3. Make sure that the cables for the cam is not on the bulb's way. If it is, remove the screws of the housing and re-route the wires as shown.
4. I find it easiest to wire the power to the #71 fuse (just tap) and just unbolt the ground nut and tie the camera ground wire and re tighten it again (no soldering, no cutting, no use of add a fuse)
5. It will be easier to install back the trim piece while the camera is not yet secured as you will have a hard time placing the chrome trim back.
The ebay cam that I bought is even clearer than my GLKs oem cam so don't be afraid to buy them. This is how it shows during night time....not bad. You don`t really lose all of the light of the bulb.
1. Go buy the ebay cam....worth it.
2. Make sure to remove the old weather strip gasket of the old license plate bulb cover and reuse it to have a proper seal and secure fit
3. Make sure that the cables for the cam is not on the bulb's way. If it is, remove the screws of the housing and re-route the wires as shown.
4. I find it easiest to wire the power to the #71 fuse (just tap) and just unbolt the ground nut and tie the camera ground wire and re tighten it again (no soldering, no cutting, no use of add a fuse)
5. It will be easier to install back the trim piece while the camera is not yet secured as you will have a hard time placing the chrome trim back.
The ebay cam that I bought is even clearer than my GLKs oem cam so don't be afraid to buy them. This is how it shows during night time....not bad. You don`t really lose all of the light of the bulb.
Last edited by shotgun_banjo; Nov 9, 2013 at 12:40 AM.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Apr 2013
Posts: 1,130
Likes: 101
From: Belgium
W205
i used to have one like that but i didn't like it + its not in the center.
here are my 2 cams in the back (1 in the bumper and one above the licence plate) and the front cam (under the licence plate)
here are my 2 cams in the back (1 in the bumper and one above the licence plate) and the front cam (under the licence plate)
Newbie
Joined: Oct 2013
Posts: 1
Likes: 0
From: Philadelphia, PA
2010 C350
Thanks for the installation tips and pictures! I'm trying to find a camera without the guidelines. Most found on ebay have them. Also, some are NTSC and others are PAL. Does it matter which one to buy? Which camera and fakra cable did you get?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 2,119
Likes: 272
'13 GLK350 4matic,'10 C207,'15 GLA250,'07 Honda Odyssey, '18 GLE 43, '24 EQS 580
Since I have the media interface on the car I want the flexibility of having the aux video with the backup camera (I need to go to the engineering menu and turn off the backup cam and turn on the aux video) if ever I need to use the input which will be rare so I decided to buy this fakra cable:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/RCA-female-to-Fakra-E-male-to-Fakra-E-female-RG174-15cm-/380423282406?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item5892fe9ee6
Doing this I will have both input without removing the command again. I was thinking of buying a video switch but I got really cheap and I will not really use the aux input. If I have to use the aux input it will just be two minutes to get it back anyway so no big deal. I did not have any problem with this cable even if it is not 90 degress.
The camera I bought is this one:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/CCD-Car-Rear-view-Reverse-Backup-Parking-Camera-for-Mercedes-Benz-C-E-S-CLASS-/140873439858?pt=US_Rear_View_Monitors_Cams_Kits&hash=item20ccb61a72
Always ask the seller if they can give you a camera without guides. I have both and somehow I like the one with the built-in guide line because I can really inch my way unlike the oem guideline which is really for the GLK.
