To install a rear view camera on a 2012 Honda Civic:
- Mount the camera above the license plate. Drill a hole to route the wiring inside the trunk.
- Connect the camera’s power wire to the reverse light wiring for automatic activation.
- Run the video cable to the front of the car, hiding it along trim panels.
- Tap into the factory wiring behind the i-MID display using an adapter harness. Enable the camera input in the diagnostic menu.
- Test and calibrate the camera angle and guidelines.
Installing an aftermarket rear view camera on your 2012 Honda Civic is a great way to improve visibility and safety when backing up. While it may seem like a daunting task, with the right tools, parts, and instructions, it’s a project that most DIY enthusiasts can tackle in a few hours. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.
What Do I Need to Install a Rear View Camera on My 2012 Honda Civic?
Before getting started, make sure you have all the necessary materials and tools:
- Aftermarket rear view camera compatible with 2012 Honda Civic
- Wiring harness adapter to connect camera to Civic’s factory wiring
- Power drill and drill bits
- Trim removal tools
- Screwdrivers
- Electrical tape
- Zip ties
- Multimeter (optional but recommended for testing connections)
You don’t need any specialized skills, but having some experience with basic car audio/video installation and wiring is helpful. Carefully follow the instructions and take your time to ensure a quality install.
Where Can I Mount the Rear View Camera on My 2012 Honda Civic?
The most common and recommended mounting location is near the center of the rear bumper, above the license plate. This provides the best vantage point for viewing what’s behind your vehicle.
Some cameras mount to the license plate itself, while others include a separate mounting bracket. Make sure the camera is centered and level. Use the supplied hardware and recommended procedures to firmly attach the camera to the vehicle. Ensure the lens is aimed properly down the center and is not obstructed.
How Do I Connect the Rear View Camera to My 2012 Honda Civic’s Infotainment System?
The 2012 Civic’s i-MID display is capable of showing the video feed from an aftermarket rear camera, but it requires tapping into the factory wiring. You’ll need to access the connectors behind the i-MID screen and use a wiring harness to interface with the camera.
First, carefully remove the trim panels to access the area behind the screen. Unplug the factory connectors. Plug the wiring harness in-between the factory wires and the i-MID. The harness should have a yellow RCA video connector for the camera signal.
On the i-MID, go to the “Diag” diagnostic menu by pressing and holding “Menu” and “Select” for 20 seconds. Then go to “Backup Camera” settings to enable the rear camera input. Adjust the guidelines as needed.
What Are the Wiring and Electrical Considerations for Installing a Rear View Camera on My 2012 Honda Civic?
The rear view camera needs to be wired for power and ground in addition to the video signal connection covered above. Typically, you’ll want to tap into the reverse light wiring so the camera turns on automatically when shifting into reverse.
Locate the wiring for the reverse lights near the rear of the vehicle. Use a multimeter to confirm the function of the wires. Then splice into the 12V+ reverse signal wire and the ground wire to power the camera. Solder the connections if possible and seal with electrical tape to prevent shorts.
When routing the video cable from the rear of the vehicle to the front, be careful to avoid any moving parts or heat sources. Use zip ties to secure the cable along existing factory wiring. Hide the cable behind trim panels and weatherstripping as much as possible for a clean install.
How Do I Test and Calibrate the Rear View Camera on My 2012 Honda Civic?
With everything wired up, reconnect the vehicle’s battery and put the car in reverse to test the camera. The video feed should automatically appear on the i-MID display. If it doesn’t, double check the wiring and i-MID settings.
Adjust the physical angle of the camera to optimize the view behind the vehicle. You want it level and pointed straight back. Use the grid line settings on the i-MID to dial in the camera aim and correct any distortion.
To access the grid line adjustment:
- Press “Menu” on the steering wheel controls
- Press and hold “Select” and “Menu” for 20 seconds to enter diagnostic mode
- Go to “Backup Camera” settings
- Select “Yellow Grid Line Adjustment”
- Use the controls to position the grid lines to account for the camera angle
Take the vehicle for a test drive to evaluate the camera performance in real-world conditions. Make sure the image is clear and the grid lines match the actual direction of the vehicle when turning the steering wheel.
Are There Any Additional Features or Settings I Should Know About for My Rear View Camera on My 2012 Honda Civic?
Aftermarket rear view cameras may include additional features like parking guidance lines, night vision, or image mirroring. Check the documentation for your specific camera model to see what features are available and how to configure the settings.
Some cameras allow you to turn parking lines on or off, or even customize the style of the grid. Higher-end cameras may offer settings to enhance visibility at night or in low light conditions. Refer to your camera’s instruction manual for details on what options are available.
What Are Some Common Issues or Troubleshooting Tips for Installing a Rear View Camera on My 2012 Honda Civic?
Here are a few things to watch out for and some troubleshooting advice:
- If the camera works sometimes but not consistently, the power/ground connections may be loose or the wrong wires were tapped at the reverse lights. Double check the wiring with a multimeter.
- A fuzzy, distorted, or black and white image can indicate a weak video signal. Check for damaged wiring or a loose connection on the video cable. Make sure the camera is compatible with the Civic’s video system.
- If the camera doesn’t activate automatically when reversing, the reverse signal wire may not have been connected properly. Use a multimeter to verify you tapped the correct wire that gets 12V+ when the car is in reverse.
- Moisture or condensation behind the camera lens can cause a blurry image. Make sure the camera housing is sealed properly and consider applying an anti-fog coating to the lens.
- Glare from the sun shining directly into the camera can wash out the image. Consider a camera with a glare-resistant lens or adjustable sunshade.
By following these tips and the installation steps carefully, you should be able to successfully install a rear view camera on your 2012 Honda Civic. Take your time, refer to the instructions, and don’t hesitate to consult a professional if you get stuck. With a little effort, you’ll be backing up with added confidence in no time!