Troubleshooting No Power To Monitor/Camera When In Reverse

Question:

The system was installed per directions on a 2017 Ford F-350. The camera will not work when truck is in reverse. The backup lights work with the connector installed. Can you help trouble shoot?

asked by: Kevin

Expert Reply:

When using The Hopkins Smart Hitch Backup Camera and Hitch Aligner System # HM50002 both the camera and monitor of the camera receive their power from the vehicle's reverse light circuit. The circuit is accessed when the round U.S. Car connector is plugged into the factory 7 way.

The monitor's cable plugs into the camera assembly which is then routed under the vehicle to the cab of the truck. You can check and make sure there is no dirt or foreign material trapped inside the plug's contacts. Dirt and debris can interfere with the transmission of the 12V power from the camera unit to the monitor. To help prevent this I recommend the application of The Dielectric grease # LT37534 which will help keep moisture, dirt and grease out of the connection.

If that doesn't work you could use a hook probe circuit tester # PTW2993 to see if you're getting any power through the cable to the in-cab monitor. This will tell you if the issue is with the power not reaching the camera or if the camera itself is damaged.

I attached a review video link below.

expert reply by: Noah E