“How did I survive without it?” That’s a question that I now ask daily. A smart car buyer doesn’t just dive into a
purchase. Hours and days of research are
required to ensure that you not only pick the right car, but that you are sure
that it has the right options. I have found that it’s actually a good idea to buy more than you think that you need (or want), so that you grow into the car, providing years of happy motoring. Before the recent purchase of my new Toyota , I spent months
researching and assessing both myself, and the myriad of vehicle choices and
their options. As I mulled over what I
wanted, as compared to what I needed, I decided that there was one item that was
mandatory for me: I must have a back-up camera.
According to Edmunds.com, through USA TODAY, “A majority of 2013 model cars and light trucks --
53% -- have a standard backup camera, and 79% have one available, standard or
as an option.” Although temporarily
stalled in governmental red tape, back-up warning systems may soon be required
on all vehicles. I know that with every
car that I’ve owned, it’s been a challenge to see behind. Whether backing or parking, maneuvering
safely has always included guess work and luck.
Now, with the available technology of an affordable camera in a car, the
guesswork is gone making backing much safer.
I love my back-up camera.
How did we survive without it?
PROS:
1) The driver can safely see if someone or something is directly behind the car.
2) You now know when to stop before impact.
1) The driver can safely see if someone or something is directly behind the car.
2) You now know when to stop before impact.
CONS:
1) The camera’s vision is impaired by reflections, either from daytime sun or lights at night.
2) Moisture and road debris can fog or fully obscure the image.
3) The image distorts the perception of depth, making the use of the reference guide bars essential.
Blue = 3 feet, Red = 1.5 feet.
1) The camera’s vision is impaired by reflections, either from daytime sun or lights at night.
2) Moisture and road debris can fog or fully obscure the image.
3) The image distorts the perception of depth, making the use of the reference guide bars essential.
Blue = 3 feet, Red = 1.5 feet.
For me, the pros of safety easily out weigh the cons. I find that I don’t use the camera for
positioning the car. For that, I still
rely on the rear view and side mirrors.
But the back-up camera is essential for seeing obstacles behind the
car and it provides a fool proof guide of when to stop. How did I survive without it?
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