October 2007
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Previous Ratings Autos backup systems
This report was first posted in October 2004. Many of the products tested then are still available, though in some cases there have been minor changes in the product name or features that would not affect performance. In the summer of 2007, we updated this story to reflect current availability and pricing. An all-new test was posted in October 2007, using an updated test methodology. We feel the information and results from both tests are valuable, but caution that the results are not directly comparable. Backup systems are typically marketed as parking aids, not safety equipment. But our tests show that the camera models can also help drivers avoid backover-accident injuries and fatalities. A likely reason for backover injuries is that minivans especially, but also SUVs and pickups, are popular vehicles for families with children and they have large rearview blind spots. Consumer Reports measures the blind spot of each vehicle we test. See our report on The Dangers of Blind Spots to see which vehicles have the biggest blind zone. HOW TO CHOOSE Aftermarket companies offer three types of backup systems: rearview cameras, sensor systems, and wide-angle lenses. Use Types to decide which type best suits your needs. For all camera and sensor systems, we recommend professional installation. No matter what type of system you choose, consider these things when deciding on a specific model: Know how the device mounts on your vehicle. Camera and sensor systems that are mounted on the vehicle's bumper or bodywork might require drilling. They might not be the best choice if you lease your vehicle. If you have a hitch, you can consider a model that mounts in the trailer-hitch receiver. But you would have to remove the system to use your hitch. Other camera and sensor models mount on the license-plate frame. But some states prohibit frames because they can obscure some printing on the plate. Within types, features vary. That is especially true with the sensor models we tested. The ultrasonic systems were generally the most sensitive, but their performance was adversely affected by rain, snow, or other inclement weather. The microwave-based sensor systems we tested were not affected by weather but are less sensitive as a group. They also don't warn the driver unless the vehicle or the object behind it is moving. The display quality of the camera-based models varies. We have found that the image quality often tracks with price, although even the better units often can't match the display of the larger screens on some carmakers' systems. Most of the system displays turn on when the vehicle shifts into reverse. The AutoMan combines a camera with sensors, so we tested each system independently; it is listed with camera systems in the Ratings. All the systems we tested are potentially useful. They're a good complement to looking around the vehicle before entering, but no substitute for checking the rear window and rearview mirror just before and while moving in reverse.
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