A reverse camera helps a lot while driving. You cannot park conveniently if your camera is not working. You should not worry if your Pioneer backup camera is not working and shows a black screen.
Because this guide will teach you how to fix it. There can be a lot of reasons behind this issue. So, we have to try different solutions.
However, I will not take too much time. Because I have found easy and quick remedies. Let us start troubleshooting.
Tip#1. Test the View
Tap the “Camera View” icon located on the stereo screen. It will show you the live image. It is a way to confirm that the reverse camera is working correctly.
Next, put the car in reverse gear and look if any image is displayed. Maybe the gear wires are installed wrongly.
Tip#2. Connect Properly
It is a common thing to plug in a switch and forget to press the power button. It recently happened to me.
I plugged my laptop into the power outlet and after two hours knew that the power supply was OFF. So, make sure your car camera is connected to the video feed and plugged into the AUX port.
Tip#3. Check Obstruction
Something may be obstructing your camera lens. Therefore, it cannot capture the image and the screen is black.
Likewise, a mud splash, sticky object, or debris can block the lens. Hence, you should check and clean the lens properly. Use a clean microfiber cloth or wet baby wipes.
Tip#4. Ensure Sufficient Power
A low battery or poor power supply also causes this issue. Check the power of your car stereo. Put fresh batteries if it has replaceable ones.
Connect to a constant power supply such as H/U. You may need to install a relay to solve the issue.
Tip#5. Blown Fuse
A fuse is installed to protect the system from damage. It trips the circuit breaker in emergency situations. In some cases, the fuse blows out. Hence, the car stereo cannot receive signals from the camera.
Therefore, you have to check the fuse box and install a new fuse. The fuse box is located under the dashboard or in the engine area.
Tip#6. Reset Pioneer Camera
Resetting can fix all the issues. The black screen or failure to work may be due to software problems. Here is how you reset the Pioneer backup camera;
Wired Reverse Camera
- Turn ON your Pioneer car camera.
- Locate the reset pinhole at the back of the camera.
- Insert a paperclip or hairpin into the hole.
- Press and hold it for 10 seconds or until the LED lights turn OFF and flash red. This indicates the reset process is completed.
Wireless Wifi Camera
- Take an Ethernet cable and connect your Pioneer backup camera to the Wifi device.
- Turn ON the camera and reset it.
- Insert the paperclip into the “reset” pinhole.
- Press and hold it for 10 seconds or until the process is completed.
Tip#7. Secure Connections and Cables
Check the wiring diagram in the user manual. Make sure the system is installed correctly. Loose connections or faulty cables are the major causes.
The wired camera uses two wires. One is used for powering up and the other is for transmitting video signals to the car stereo.
Trace the signal cord and make sure it is plugged securely into the stereo. Unplug the cable from the stereo and plug it back firmly.
Tip#8. Check Voltage
Measure the voltage between the negative and positive terminals. It should be connected to a +12V power supply. A voltmeter or multimeter can be used for this purpose.
Also, inspect both cords. The wires may be damaged, broken, or worn out. So, you have to replace the faulty wires.
Otherwise, the signal transmission will be blocked. Moreover, make sure your reverse camera is installed and grounded correctly.
Tip#9. Check the Car Stereo
The backup camera is connected to the car stereo. Its screen displays the input images. If the stereo is faulty, there will be no image. Check if your car head unit or stereo comes ON.
Check its other functions and features. If all else works fine, the camera is faulty. However, if the stereo display does not respond to other commands, it needs to be troubleshot.
Tip#10. Enable the Reverse Image
The problem can be in the settings. The reverse image is locked or disabled. That’s why the display is showing a black screen while reversing the car.
- On the stereo, press and hold the “Mute” buttons for 2 seconds.
- Access the menu and then “Camera Settings”. Go to the “Backup Camera Input”. Turn ON the backup camera.
- Go to “Reverse Gear Settings” and then “Camera Polarity”.
- Set the polarity to the “Battery” instead of ground.
- Also, check other settings and enable the necessary features.
Tip#11. Check Hardware Defects
A defect in the hardware is another cause of the black screen. The lens may be broken or the stabilizer is faulty. Likewise, there can be some other damaged components.
Moisture, rain, or a shock can damage the parts. Just observe the camera to find out the apparent faults. Consult a professional technician to repair or replace the part.
Tip#12. Contact Pioneer
Generally, wiring and power issues cause a black screen and the camera stops working. So, you have to double-check all these things.
Contact Pioneer or a nearby technician if nothing helps. A professional can diagnose the root cause and can repair the damaged parts.
FAQs Regarding Backup/Reverse Camera
Following frequently asked questions will help you further in fixing your vehicle camera.
How long can a car backup camera last?
A good quality backup camera can last more than 10 years. Proper maintenance and care can increase its lifespan further. However, within a decade, it may get outdated. Because newer models with more advanced features are released continuously.
Are the backup and rear-view cameras the same?
A backup camera is used while parking the vehicle. It comes ON when the car is put in reverse gear. While the rear-view camera can be turned ON at any time. It displays what is behind your car.
Do backup car cameras always record footage?
They are designed to assist the driver in parking. They activate while the vehicle is put in reverse gear. So, they do not record always.
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Concluding Words
As you learned, fixing the Pioneer camera that is not working or showing a black screen is very easy. Apply all the troubleshooting remedies to fix the issue. Keep following for more updates.
