Do Jeep’s Have a Backup Camera?

Jeep Wranglers are American icons known for their go-anywhere design. In years past, when the Jeep Wrangler was simply a small two-door vehicle and easy to see all around the vehicle drivers did not consider the need for a backup camera.

Today with the addition of the four-door Unlimited edition Jeep Wranglers, more and more people would benefit from a rearview camera. This is why one of the most frequently asked questions among new Jeep Wrangler owners is, do Jeep Wranglers have a backup camera. So, do they? I did a little research and here is what I found.

Do Jeep Wranglers Have Back Up Cameras? Yes, all Jeep Wrangler models have a backup camera. With the recently passed laws, all new vehicles need back up cameras as a compulsory feature. In accordance with that, the new 2018 Jeep Wrangler update comes with a high-quality backup camera as a standard feature. For models released prior to the update, back up cameras are not included.

With this said, there are plenty of add-on backup cameras available. Aftermarket rear-view cameras are no slouch when it comes to safety and convenience.

Options exist for every price bracket, from cheap yet reliable models to the high-cost high-resolution options that ensure you get every bit of sensory information possible.

Want to know more? Through my research, I discovered a lot more about backup cameras for Jeeps and you may find this information helpful.

Why should I install a backup camera for my Jeep Wrangler?

This is one of the most commonly asked questions among new Jeep Wrangler owners. A backup camera is a modern innovation in the automobile industry and is a godsend for newbie drivers who might not be fully confident in their abilities.

So why should one own a Jeep Wrangler with a backup camera?

We’re of the opinion that all drivers should have back up cameras, and should think of getting them installed at the first possible opportunity.

What are back up cameras?

As you might have guessed from the names, these are simple wide-angle cameras that attach to the rear end of any vehicle, which is then linked to a screen easily visible by the driver. This serves as an alternative to rear-view mirrors, which explains the use of the name rear-view cameras by certain manufacturers.

Certain states in the US have enforced laws that require new vehicles to have back up cameras installed by default.

This has led to the recent abundance of rear-mounted video cameras in modern cars, trucks and of course, Jeep Wranglers. While rear-view mirrors have been the norm for upwards of centuries, they aren’t failproof.

Drivers can certainly relate to the existence of blind spots, and the rear-view mirror is one of the major causes of accidents in light vehicles.

What are the advantages of back up cameras?

With rear-view mirrors, you can’t see what’s behind your car if it obscured by the rear window. For sedans and coupes, this might seem less significant, but the statistics show a staggering amount of accidents and fatalities due to this major flaw.

With back up cameras, the problem is alleviated with an elegant solution. Instead of relying on the limited cone of vision of rear-view mirrors, back up cameras expand the field of view.

This is thanks to the fact that the cameras are situated outside your vehicle. With the blind spot issue solved, there are also further benefits.

During rainstorms or misty mornings, back up cameras provide clear vision where a rear-view mirror would otherwise be blurred. Beginners benefit the most with back up cameras, as the screen adds special driving aids that can be of help to everyone.

Most back up cameras have on-screen guidelines, which are extremely helpful in parking and maneuvering. For anyone who’s misjudged distances while driving, this is a feature that you never knew you needed.

Add the industry standard rear sensor beeps, and drivers finally have a sufficient amount of perception to make split-second decisions.

So, since we’re a site about Jeep Wranglers, let’s talk about back up cameras in Jeep Wranglers.

How do I install back up cameras?

Installing third-party backup cameras might seem complicated, but most kits come with detailed instructions that even kids can follow.

The best part about DIY kits is that they work regardless of your vehicle, meaning something that works for a sports car is just as likely to work for your Jeep Wrangler.

The most popular aftermarket back up cameras do away with convoluted wiring, and instead work with wireless data transfer, imagine Bluetooth on a smaller scale.

All you need to do is install the camera near your license plate, and install the screen that comes with the set near the driver’s seat.

The cool thing is that the camera draws power from your Jeep’s back up light, meaning it only powers up when you go in reverse.

For the non-tech-savvy (or wire-klutz), there is always the option of professional help. Most garages have installation services on demand and can have a backup camera installed in less than an hour.

If you’d rather go with the rear-view cameras tailored for your Jeep Wrangler, companies make authentic OEM cameras that match Jeep’s own specifications closely, and you can even find these used in licensed Jeep dealers and garages as a modification option.

Which Jeep Wranglers models come from the factory with a backup camera?

As we’ve discussed, only Jeep Wranglers released after the 2018 update come with back up cameras installed by default. This means any of the 2018 or 2019 models comes right off the production line with backup cameras installed.

This includes the Jeep Wrangler Sport, Jeep Wrangler Sport S, Jeep Wrangler Sahara, Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, Jeep Wrangler Moab, and all associated variants.

For owners of older models, this update might be worth considering, as it comes with significant improvements in both performance and comfort, with increased fuel efficiency and handling being the main marketed selling points.

This was the first update in 3 years, with the last significant update coming in the 2015 Jeep Wranglers.

This rear-view camera feature was continued in the 2019 update, remaining as a highlight feature thanks to its distinctive look, with the camera concealed in the spare tire slot.

What are the 5 best back up cameras to put on a Jeep Wrangler?

What about the owners of older Jeep Wrangler models? Well, we’ve covered this previously, and aftermarket parts are the best option for those looking to add a backup camera to their Jeep Wranglers.

As a refresher, all Jeep Wranglers and their variations released before 2018 do not come with installed rear-view cameras.

Yet the aftermarket parts come in such a myriad of options that it might feel daunting. Fortunately, we’re here to guide you through the best choices.

Alpine HCE-TCAM1-WRA T-CAM Spare Tire Rear-View Camera and Light System:

At the top-tier, uncompromising end, we have the custom Jeep Wrangler backup camera and light system combo from Alpine.

Alpine is well known for its high-quality lights, and this camera looks right at home with the spare tire.

This design is shared with the official 2018 update, meaning you get as close to the real deal as possible with this. [Amazon Link]

Crux CCH-01S Rear-View Camera:

A top seller on Amazon and eBay, this camera is easy to install and integrates with aftermarket radios with support for video input.

If you’re fortunate enough to have a Jeep Wrangler that has a screen-equipped radio, this integrates perfectly with minimal effort.

For those with traditional radios, further installation of a supported screen might be necessary. [Amazon Link]

Back Up Camera and Monitor Kits:

These are extremely popular all in one combinations that fit on any vehicle without much issue.

The screens and cameras are easily attachable with included tools, and slot right into your Jeep Wrangler. The backup camera draws power from your reverse lights, and the screen attaches to your 12v fuse box or cigarette lighter point depending on the model.

Unlike the custom and OEM models, you don’t even need to wire the camera to the screen, as they connect wirelessly to provide low-latency operation.

Rear-View Mirrors with Backup Monitor:

Another popular alternative is the attachment monitors which clip right onto your rear-view mirror.

Despite what you might think, these screens don’t obscure your vision, as they are coated with the same reflecting surface that makes up your mirror. The magic happens once you go in reverse.

This triggers an overlay which shows you the camera’s viewpoint. If you’re hoping to add as little clutter as possible to your Jeep Wrangler, these are the way to go.

Multi-View Back Up Cameras:

For those looking for maximum situational awareness, the flexibility and adaptability of a multi-view camera is hard to resist. These cameras come in different configurations.

The most basic form comes with zoom control for pinpoint accuracy, and more advanced models allow you to remotely rotate the rear-view camera with convenient controls.

These premium products even find their way into Jeep Wranglers with included rear-view cameras, a testament to their quality and integration.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are back up cameras a must?

  • You don’t need to have back up cameras installed, though it is recommended. The US government has passed laws requiring all new vehicles produced after May 2018 to have back up cameras installed by default, but people owning cars manufactured before this cut off period are allowed to drive without any restrictions. However, it must be said that statistics show that back up cameras do result in a reduced risk of accidents. As the saying goes, better safe than sorry, and we recommend that all Jeep Wrangler owners add on a rear-view camera for road safety.

• Can I install a backup camera without a screen in my Jeep Wrangler?

  • You will need to get a dedicated screen to get rear-view camera functionality. Fortunately, many rear-view camera sets come with bundled screens, especially those designed to work with any car, truck or SUV. For those looking for customizability, you can choose from the large variety of aftermarket screens, as most rear-view cameras work with standard AV connectors.

• How can I use a backup camera effectively?

  • Practice makes perfect. Using a backup camera may feel unnatural at first, especially if you’re used to using your mirrors. However, the transition feels really smooth, as the added situational awareness makes a huge difference in parking situations. With time, you’ll get used to rear-view cameras.

Closing Thoughts

After discussing the pros of back up cameras, we’d like to recommend that you get this simple upgrade for your Jeep Wrangler if it doesn’t have a rear-view camera installed.

The difference it makes is significant, and as the saying goes, better safe than sorry. If you’re on the fence, we hope that this gives you a push in the right direction.