Trunk Mount Bike Carrier for a 2014 Mazda CX-5 that Will Not Block the Backup Camera

Question:

I am interested in securing a trunk-mounted bicycle carrier for my 2014 Mazda CX-5 SUV. Since I would like to leave it attached all the time, I need to know if it interferes with the back-up camera at the rear of the vehicle. I would prefer a hitch-mounted bike carrier, but it does interfere with the camera. Also, can the rear wipers be used when the carrier is affixed?

asked by: Fred W

Expert Reply:

A couple of things you should know. First, a trunk mount bike rack is not supposed to be left on a vehicle all the time. What could happen is that where the carrier makes contact with the vehicle it can mar or scratch the paint if left on for prolonged periods of time.

The other thing is that depending on where the backup camera is located on your 2014 Mazda CX-9 a trunk mount carrier could still block the view. With bikes loaded it would block the view for sure.

If the camera is right in the middle above the license plate then a rack with a wide stance such as # TH910XT will be the best bet but there is no guarantee that the camera view won't be blocked.

You will not be able to use the rear wiper with any trunk mount carrier installed. The upper arms have to rest on the glass.

To "lock" the carrier to the vehicle you can use the passive security strap, # TH533.

expert reply by: Michael H