Question, I have noticed for other cars you can now buy backup cameras that are integrated in reverse light assemblies. Has anyone seen such cameras for the C5? I do not want to bolt a camera to my license plate, I want it to look more factory if possible.

 

There isn't really anywhere to put one on the reverse assembly that isn't behind the plate or behind the plate frame.

You have a few options though:

A flush mount peep hole camera behind the license plate (you have to drill through reverse housing, plate and maybe body).

A camera integrated into a license plate frame (probably the most integrated look)

A bracket mount camera (what you would think would be the hackiest look)

Personally I didn't want to drill through body/license frame for a flush mount. I don't really like the license frame ones mostly for aesthetics (they always look bulky or make the frame appear uneven/overly pronounced). So I went with the bracket, I only attached it via one of the reverse light screws (slightly off center) and because there is already a hole in the panel there I was able to mount the bracket backwards making it more tucked away. The only problem with this is that I had to use a rubbery (blacked out 'Murica) license frame because it doesn't clear the OEM frame. It's so high up and deep in the bumper that I have to lean over to see the camera (unless the car is really far away at which point it's too small to see anyway car and cam/mount are all black). I have shown off my stereo install to a few people and none of them noticed the backup cam before I pointed it out.

 

Here is a Kenwood backup camera that I installed. It is held in place with 3m tape that was factory installed on the bracket. I did drill a hole in the inside tub, to run the wires to the Kenwood receiver.

 

I really like it! Looks OEM. 2 questions.
#1: Total cost of parts and install.
#2: Will the camera work with OEM Bose head unit?

 

The Kenwood camera, is the CMOS-230,and is $99 from Crutchfield. I do not believe it will hook to the original stereo. I installed an after market Kenwood double din set-up. Do a search under my user name for the install write -up

 

I did the exact same mount for my Pioneer using their Nd-bc8 camera and have enjoyed it for years. It is not as visible as you would think. Especially if you keep it tucked as far in as possible.

 

What are the color codes to the pos & neg wires you hook to in the light pigtail. I haven't disassembled it yet until I have a better idea of what I'll be doing.