Left Coast Geek

so our 2016 E350 Wagon (212.288) backup camera has this big fuzzy glare blurring out the upper left corner at night.

I've taken a eyeglass lens cleaner tissue to the camera, carefully wiped adn polished, still happening. I haven't figured out what is glaring in the way of the camera.

Senecat

Post a pic

Left Coast Geek

Senecat

Polish with fine compound. If no change then I would say moisture got inside/inbetween one of the lens layers and deposited minerals or dirt or something? It almost looks like the effect can also be seen on the bottom of the screen along the bumper line.

DFWdude

I'm not sure I would do anything with this... you could do more harm than good.

I don't get a perfect picture at night, either. But I don't expect it, considering the license plate light doesn't offer much light, and the wake of air back there collects dust, dirt, rain water, etc.

Senecat

Camera module probably easy and cheap enough to just replace anyway. I'll look it up.

Senecat

A2078200897

CaliBenzDriver

LCG,
Could your backup cam be upset by the license plate lights in some conditions ??

Do a quick test with masking tape covering the plastic light lens - Compare how contrast plays up picture definition.

Do you see any recuring DTC in your RFK??

ygmn

I agree with above looks like license plate light is shining onto camera.

Cover up all rear lights and try again.

Maybe too much shiny chrome reflecting light from cars rear lights.

Does this happen everywhere? like maybe there is a light on a pole near this parking spot that happens to shine directly onto camera?

Left Coast Geek

It's consistent everywhere, that same white glow in the left side, especially upper left.

I'll try some tape, I have some Black masking tape I can use.

Senecat

It's not the plate.