Driving an RV comes with unique challenges—especially when it comes to rear visibility. Most RV drivers want to keep an eye on what’s behind them, not just when reversing but while cruising down the road.
The CAR8000 Jensen is a popular multimedia head unit that supports a backup camera, but by default, it only displays the rear view when the vehicle is in reverse. In this article, we’ll explore how to keep the backup camera on while driving an RV using the CAR8000 Jensen unit.
This complete guide will walk you through how the system works, various methods to override the default camera behavior, safety tips, and a comparison of the options available.
Understanding the CAR8000 Jensen and Its Camera Behavior
The CAR8000 Jensen is a modern multimedia receiver often installed in RVs and large vehicles. One of its core features is the support for a rear-view or backup camera. This camera feed typically activates only when the vehicle is placed in reverse gear. It does this by relying on a special signal wire known as the reverse trigger wire, which connects to your RV’s reverse light circuit.
However, this default behavior can be restrictive for RV drivers who want to maintain constant visibility of the road or tow behind them. That’s why many look for ways to keep the backup camera feed active during normal driving conditions—not just when reversing.
Why Keep the Backup Camera On While Driving?
Here’s why RV owners commonly want the backup camera view on at all times:
- Continuous Rear Visibility – Helps monitor traffic, tailgaters, or towing equipment.
- Improved Driving Awareness – Especially useful when changing lanes or navigating narrow roads.
- Increased Safety – Prevents accidents from blind spots and rear-end surprises.
- Monitoring Pets or Bikes – Many RVs carry bikes or pet trailers behind, so watching them in real-time is helpful.
Methods to Keep CAR8000 Jensen Backup Camera On While Driving RV
There are a few different approaches you can take to enable the CAR8000 Jensen camera to stay on while you drive your RV. Each has different levels of difficulty, effectiveness, and legality.
1. Manual Activation via Touchscreen
The simplest method is using the “CAMERA” button available on some Jensen units, including the CAR8000. If your backup camera is powered by an ignition source (so it’s always receiving power when the engine is running), you may be able to manually activate the camera feed by tapping the camera icon on the touchscreen.
This method:
- Doesn’t require rewiring.
- Only works if the camera has power via ACC (Accessory).
- Might deactivate automatically when other functions are used (like navigation or media).
It’s a great starting point but not ideal for those who want the camera to display automatically and persistently during driving.
2. Reverse Trigger Override Switch (Recommended Method)
A more advanced and popular method is to install a toggle switch that manually sends a 12V signal to the reverse trigger wire on the CAR8000. This simulates the vehicle being in reverse, forcing the head unit to display the camera feed—even while driving forward.
Here’s how it works in practice:
- The reverse trigger wire is usually purple/white.
- You splice a switch between a 12V source and the reverse trigger wire.
- When you flip the switch ON, the head unit thinks the RV is in reverse and activates the camera display.
This solution is:
- Permanent until switched off manually.
- Simple to control on the fly.
- Reliable and does not interfere with other functions.
Make sure to install the switch securely and label it clearly for safety and maintenance purposes.
3. Grounding the Parking Brake Wire (Alternate Method)
The CAR8000 also has a parking brake detection wire, often used to lock or unlock certain features when the vehicle is in motion. Some RV owners choose to ground this wire permanently, which can trick the head unit into thinking the vehicle is parked. In some cases, this unlocks the ability to view the camera freely.
However, this method:
- May violate safety lockout features.
- Could interfere with other functions.
- Is less reliable for keeping the camera feed active.
It’s better suited for enabling video playback or adjusting settings while moving rather than keeping a backup camera feed live.
Step-by-Step Guide to Install a Reverse Trigger Override Switch
Here’s a simple guide to help you safely install the override switch for the CAR8000 Jensen in your RV:
- Identify the reverse trigger wire from the stereo wiring harness (usually purple/white).
- Find a 12V accessory source, such as the fuse box or cigarette lighter circuit.
- Install an on/off toggle switch between the 12V source and the reverse trigger wire.
- Secure all connections using electrical tape, wire nuts, or solder.
- Test the camera feed: Flip the switch and confirm that the camera view appears on the screen even when not in reverse gear.
- Label the switch so future users or service personnel understand its function.
Safety and Legal Considerations
While it’s technically possible to keep the camera feed active while driving, there are a few important considerations:
- Distraction Risk: A constant video feed could be distracting if placed directly in the driver’s line of sight.
- Local Laws: Some regions have laws restricting video displays visible to the driver while the vehicle is moving.
- Camera Mounting: Ensure the camera is securely mounted and has a clear, unobstructed view.
It’s best to consult local vehicle regulations and always use camera feeds responsibly.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your camera doesn’t display as expected, check the following:
- Ensure the camera is receiving power from an ignition (ACC) source.
- Confirm the reverse trigger wire is properly connected to the switch.
- Inspect fuses, ground points, and camera cable integrity.
- Test the camera separately by applying 12V to verify functionality.
Comparison Table of Camera Activation Methods
| Method | How It Works | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Touchscreen “CAMERA” button | Manual trigger via head unit menu | Easy, no install needed | Doesn’t stay active consistently |
| Reverse trigger override switch | Sends 12V to reverse trigger wire | Reliable, simple to control | Requires basic wiring |
| Grounding parking brake wire | Bypasses safety lockout | May unlock all features | Can be illegal or unsafe in some cases |
Real-World Experiences from RV Users
Many RV users in forums and online groups have shared their DIY methods for solving this visibility issue:
- One user mentioned: “I wired a switch to my CAR8000’s reverse signal wire—now I can flip it anytime and see behind me.”
- Another wrote: “I grounded the parking brake wire and can now access the rear camera full time. Works great but not for everyone.”
These shared solutions show that the CAR8000 Jensen keep backup camera on while driving RV approach is not only doable but commonly done by DIY RVers.
Final Thoughts
If you want to maintain a full-time rear view in your RV using the CAR8000 Jensen, you have several methods at your disposal—from manual activation to wiring a dedicated switch. The best balance of safety, usability, and simplicity comes from installing a reverse trigger override switch. Just remember to follow proper wiring protocols and stay within legal limits for your area.
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