Backup camera option for E82 (aftermarket)

[danix]

I installed this unit off ebay. Item title is "Rear View Camera Kit For BMW 1/3/5/7 Series X3 X5 X6 Z4 E39 E53 E82 E88 M3 E46"

I had installed the type that replaces the trunk handle in an E46 and E39, and they are just OK. I always worry the trunk release part will fail, and result in a bigger issue.

This item I ordered replaces one of the license plate lights with a smaller light plus a camera. The image quality is not amazing and at first the bracket didn't fit well in the car, but then I realized it came without a gasket, so I reused the stock gasket to check and it snapped right into place. I'm going to try to find a new gasket but this should do the trick.

Standard camera wiring (yellow for video plus extra for power/ground). I snaked the video wire under the carpet, along the side and into the trunk, then up and into the trunk grommet/accordion that carries the other wiring. I had to snip off the video connector but it's only 1 wire plus a ground, so easily spliced.

Connected to the android head unit and it works as designed!

Hope this helps.

In summary, perhaps not the best option, but the best option available I could find