Backup Camera in rainy conditions

[CaptainAmericaRob]

Has anyone noticed the backup camera lens get too easily blurred by water droplets in rainy conditions? I certainly have. My previous trucks, 2019 Ranger and my 2015 F150 XLT didn't really much of an issue.
Looking at the two F-150 tailgates side by side, you can see how, on the previous gen, the camera lens is a bit more covered from above. I think it makes a huge difference.

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[Blueshound]

I think it's about the same as my prior vehicle, a Mazda CX5. The droplets and blurring are definitely easier to see because the 12-in screen is so darn big.

 

[travisN000]

I had a Chevy Colorado previously.. I think it was similar, but the screen quality (size, resolution, and brightness / contrast were all far worse).

My wife's Ram backup cam just quits working in the rain... it looks like the old analog TV's that would get that horizontal tearing distortion, but of course every time it sits in the dealer's shop it works fine.

 

[OnceAnEagle]

I had a Chevy Colorado previously.. I think it was similar, but the screen quality (size, resolution, and brightness / contrast were all far worse).

My wife's Ram backup cam just quits working in the rain... it looks like the old analog TV's that would get that horizontal tearing distortion, but of course every time it sits in the dealer's shop it works fine.

My wife's 2020 Escape did the same thing and even when not raining. Recall replaced it and no more issues.

 

[machz]

My ram was just as bad as my f150 in the rain/snow.

 

[EatDirtFartDust]

The backup camera in our Lincoln MKZ is the same way. It's like the shape of the car pulls every bit of water and rain right into the camera lens.
If she hasn't had a car wash in a while, we at least have to wipe dirt off the camera lens every few days.

 

[Pedaldude]

It's basically the shape of most vehicles and especially a pickup. The wake of turbulent air reverses all the dirt/grime as well as the filthy road slurry during wet and slushy driving.

Spraying off the camera lens will keep it from getting fogged up from tiny scratches. Then a microfiber cloth to clean up the water.

 

[Bandito]

If it helps, I read many of the same complaints about the previous generation’s backup camera too. Because of where it needs to be positioned to get the right view, I don’t think there’s much that can be done other than to add a larger and uglier housing around it and then recess it in there further. Not a very elegant solution.

 

[CaptainAmericaRob]

the picture quality is awesome... it's just the raindrops on the lens that's my issue. I didn't have this issue on my Ranger.
I have an idea for a solution... if I can work it out, I'll post pics, if anyone's interested.

 

[Bandito]

Im not sure what may be available, but similar to the anti fog treatments you can get for glasses, you may be able to find a hydrophobic treatment that will help shed the water drops. Just a thought.

 

[Whoskyle]

Someone can make a 3D printed cover lol

 

[ryanc111]

Im not sure what may be available, but similar to the anti fog treatments you can get for glasses, you may be able to find a hydrophobic treatment that will help shed the water drops. Just a thought.

I'll bet you could solve this with a quick application of RainX. I use it on my windshields prior to the winter (which reminds me, it's time to apply it) and it makes a huge difference keeping them clear in the winter. Even more so on my wife's Jeep since the windshield is more vertical.

 

[CaptainAmericaRob]

I'll bet you could solve this with a quick application of RainX. I use it on my windshields prior to the winter (which reminds me, it's time to apply it) and it makes a huge difference keeping them clear in the winter. Even more so on my wife's Jeep since the windshield is more vertical.

I have some, i'll try it.
thanks

 

[GolfR]

I'll bet you could solve this with a quick application of RainX. I use it on my windshields prior to the winter (which reminds me, it's time to apply it) and it makes a huge difference keeping them clear in the winter. Even more so on my wife's Jeep since the windshield is more vertical.

I've tried it and no dice. The problem seems to be the water droplets that hang from the lip at the top.

 

[EatDirtFartDust]

I'll bet you could solve this with a quick application of RainX. I use it on my windshields prior to the winter (which reminds me, it's time to apply it) and it makes a huge difference keeping them clear in the winter. Even more so on my wife's Jeep since the windshield is more vertical.

Why haven't I thought of that?! I have Rain-x in my garage.

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