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Adding back up cam to 05 Prius

Discussion in 'Gen 2 Prius Accessories & Modifications' started by AlexGault, May 28, 2016.

  1. AlexGault

    AlexGault New Member

    Joined:
    Apr 4, 2016
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    Location:
    Upstate New York
    Vehicle:
    2005 Prius
    Model:
    N/A
    I have a 2005 model, which I bought used a few months ago. I've loved most of the car, but the issue I struggle the most with is the fact that the back is really quite difficult to see out of. I find myself looking all around instead of just back, as I used to do with my 2005 Camry. I have the model without the backup camera, nav, or bluetooth (I don't know if thats base or not, because I still have Smart Key entry)
    I was wondering if its possible to simply get a Toyota camera and install it with the MFD I have installed, or if I'd have to change the MFD as well. If I have to change the MFD, do I have to get a whole new wiring harness or simply switch the unit?
     
    #1 AlexGault, May 28, 2016
  2. The Electric Me

    The Electric Me Go Speed Go!

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    Some people have done it, but they are applying a lot of personal wiring, installation skills that quite frankly I do not have.
    Commercially, for my 2013, the only options I can find that don't include changing out the entire head unit, are the back-up camera's that are built into the rear view mirror. I personally don't like them, so I've lived without.

    I use those convex mirrors...those help me when backing up...at least during the day.
     
    #2 The Electric Me, May 28, 2016
  3. mmmodem

    mmmodem Senior Taste Tester

    Joined:
    Nov 17, 2011
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    Location:
    Bay Area, CA
    Vehicle:
    2012 Prius Plug-in
    Model:
    Plug-in Base
    There were no trim levels on 2005. Everything was just made as options. I have a 2005 with SKS and little else. I looked up the cost to add a stock backup camera and the cost was pretty high. It would probably be cheaper to sell my 2005 and buy another with backup camera built in. I decided to go aftermarket and bought a kit with a camera and screen. Thank goodness I did. The installation is not for the faint of fault. I'm no expert but I've done stereo installs and subwoofer installations so I'm not stranger of to running wires. I looked at the hatchback and how I would have to route the wires and promptly boxed up the back up camera kit. Take some of the plastic panels off the hatch and visualize where you would route the wires for a camera and see if you think you'd still be up to it. Good luck. If you pay for shipping you can have my kit. I can't return t anymore.
     
    #3 mmmodem, May 28, 2016
  4. jjdemu

    jjdemu Junior Member

    Joined:
    Jul 2, 2014
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    Location:
    IL
    Vehicle:
    2004 Prius
    Model:
    N/A

    Another option is look at is getting an android head units that you are able to hook up a backup camera to. You still have to pop plastic pieces off and fish wires through but may be a little easier. Even a kit like mmmodem has could be complicated to install but with patience could be done.
    I been thinking about adding one to my 2004, just have not done it yet.
    What kind of kit is it and what would you be looking for total shipped to 62040 if no other takers, mmmodem.
     
    #4 jjdemu, May 28, 2016
    Last edited: May 29, 2016
    fullylaced1 and Neural Net like this.
  5. AlexGault

    AlexGault New Member

    Joined:
    Apr 4, 2016
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    Location:
    Upstate New York
    Vehicle:
    2005 Prius
    Model:
    N/A
    The problem with those is that 2005 Prii, and indeed all 2nd Gen Prii, can't have their radio headers taken out because tech is routed through it. So to install a different head unit, I'd need to install it in the aux box under the stereo, and there's no room for a screen there unless I do one of those atrocious pop-out single-DIN systems.
    I don't wanna take this far from stock because I have a tendency to switch cars every year, used for used in better condition. Cars for my family aren't usually a long-term item. Installing the backup cam would really be a convenience and value-adding process. Worst comes to worst I'll get a wireless unit that pairs with an in-mirror screen for $200, I just thought it would be nice to cheat the system and add stock features where they previously didn't exist
     
    #5 AlexGault, May 30, 2016
  6. Whitethug

    Whitethug Junior Member

    Joined:
    Sep 2, 2010
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    Location:
    Los Angeles, CA
    Vehicle:
    2005 Prius
    Model:
    V
    An expensive, but cool option is about to released:
    Pearl

    The Rear Vision is $500, woof. But it's pretty cool, requires no wiring, and can be brought to a future car.
     
    #6 Whitethug, Jun 21, 2016
    Daves09prius likes this.
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