Feb 32 min read

Backup Camera added to 1999-2006 Chevy Silverado Pickup

Updated: Feb 6

Chevrolet, Chevy backup tailgate backup camera — 2003 Chevy Duramax tailgate backup camera

This is my review of a backup camera I added to a 2003 Chevy Silverado Duramax. I purchased all the products from Amazon. To be honest, this is my girlfriend's truck, and it's one of her most prized possessions. Now, her truck has a canopy on it, and what was quickly discovered was that backing up at night was a nightmare. After witnessing her hit a few concrete bollards, it became apparent that something had to be done. Since the rear bumper needed replacement, and we also pulled an RV at the time, hooking up was unbearable even with assistance.

I connected this backup camera to a Kenwood double din receiver that plays CDs/DVDs, and it's very nice if you're into old-fashioned things like that. I know I've dated myself, but I enjoy a CD on a long trip with the RV, girlfriend, and dog loaded up for an adventure. If you don't like CDs and would prefer a CarPlay receiver instead, my recommendations for both and a stereo install kit are provided at the bottom of the article.

The purple wire – I know this won't mean anything until you have this product in your hot hands, but the purple wire allows me to activate the camera on the head unit, allowing me to see what's behind me while driving down the road or observe how a trailer or item in that trailer is traveling. I don't have to be in reverse to use this function. Not all backup camera wiring has this capability, but it's nice to have if you want to use it.
The wire with parking guide functionality – you can choose to cut it, resulting in backup lines, or leave it attached, and they won't appear. The Kenwood head unit installed in the truck can project its own lines, and they are more than satisfactory.
Regarding the bezel, if you read the reviews, many don't like that it isn't flush like the OEM one. It has rubber bumpers on the back that keep it pushed up from the tailgate and comes with two different sizes – a smaller, less thick bumper and a thicker one. My girlfriend removed the bumpers altogether, and it fits flush with no wiggling.
Wiring to the head unit: This is where you find out how skilled you are at getting the wiring from the back of the truck to the front. All I can say is to use zip ties and stay away from any moving parts. Pick a taillight to splice into for the backup camera, and also tuck excess wiring in there as well.

The only downside is that removing the tailgate now involves an extra step – you have to unplug the camera. The location where you access that plug is up to you. I recommend installing the camera-to-wiring plug in a dry location.

Here is a picture of the double din stereo for reference: