Aftermarket Backup Camera and MyLink (2014 Sonic)

[cmgeiser]

incase anyone wanted to know how I got an aftermarket camera to work with the MyLink system here it is in a nutshell -

WARNING - I am not a professional and don't pretend to be if you want to use this method do so at your own risk.

Now let me tell you its a bit flakey but because the MyLink system will switch automatically between sources, when you put the car in reverse the video will display on the screen most of the time again its flakey and remember if you go over 5mph the video will cut out.

1. attach and wire up camera (use the instructions that come with the camera)

2. take the video cable and attach it to an AUX video cable

3. plug the Aux cable into the Aux input in the car next to the USB

4. put car in revers and video will display on the MyLink screen

 

[Stew]

That is really cool! Can you take a pic of the cable you used to go from the camera output the the aux input? And let us know where you got it and a part number!

If that is a simple as it is, a lot people will be thanking you.

 

[Stew]

I just confirmed on my 2013 that the aux input indeed works with video. It actually works all the time, not just reverse (except if you go over 4mph) but a backup camera normally only comes on with the reverse lights.

Guess I'll be getting a backup camera now, thanks.

 

[chrisinnova]

Can you tell us what camera and parts you got and where you purchased them from? I'm thinking this may be my next project. Thanks!

 

[JackGSonic]

It may also be noted that the 2014 models that didn't come with a camera (like mine), do (or should) have a compatible wiring harness. I've confirmed with customer support that it should be possible to get the factory camera installed and a BCM flash to have it work like it should. Much like the Fog Light factory install/upgrade.

 

[cmgeiser]

Cable used was - any Audio / Video AV 3.5mm to 3-RCA Composite Cable will work.

Camera - Belva BARCAM221

 

[cmgeiser]

It may also be noted that the 2014 models that didn't come with a camera (like mine), do (or should) have a compatible wiring harness. I've confirmed with customer support that it should be possible to get the factory camera installed and a BCM flash to have it work like it should. Much like the Fog Light factory install/upgrade.

I have a 2014 LT sedan that came without a camera and I checked all over and called GM (GM said it has to come off the assembly line with one) and I called several different shops in my area and I was told there is no compatible wiring harness but the MyLink radios in the the 2015's at least the ones in the Spark will have a compatible one.

 

[cndctrdj]

This looks like a fun little project

 

[seanp1]

Hey cmgeiser,

Can you fix the pics please?

 

[Anarkii]

Hey cmgeiser,

Can you fix the pics please?

I second this, would love to do this mod but the pics are dead, and dont want to stuff it up being a noob mechanically.

 

[PlayCrackTheSky]

I second this, would love to do this mod but the pics are dead, and dont want to stuff it up being a noob mechanically.

The pics are very basic and have nothing to do with the installation process. It's a very simple install anyway. The pics just show the camera on the tag after install, the cable plugging into the dash, and the screen. They don't really help at all.

Feel free to contact me with any questions you may have.

 

[Balsar]

I got the same answer from GM as others. When discussing the fog light flash with my dealer I added the question regarding a reverse cam. He called GM, their response was, if my car didn't come off the line with a camera, then MyLink doesn't have an input for a camera.

I wanted a reverse cam when I purchased our 2014 Sonic. I tried to buy an LTZ to get the 17" wheels, fog lights and camera but they could not find one anywhere in Southern California. If anyone sorts out if it is true or false if we have a cam input, I would love to install a reverse cam!

 

[krakenredbeard]

They wouldn't make multiple versions of a mylink some with and some without.

That's not good for manufacturing. I'm betting it has the inputs.

 

[etac_owiec]

I have one questions, after my instalation, I see that after using reverse gear I see picture, but when revers is off, my link sat on AUX position. Is normal?

 

[krakenredbeard]

I'd say so. Maybe someone can confirm.

 

[sonic13rs]

I have one questions, after my instalation, I see that after using reverse gear I see picture, but when revers is off, my link sat on AUX position. Is normal?

Yes, after taking out of reverse it goes to aux. You must hit AM, FM or SatRadio. Also at night when turn key off, backup light come on and thus camera.
Note: my backup camera has a mine of its own, it does not always show on screen....:sadbanana: , but when it works its great.