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Garmin BC 30 Wireless backup camera

Item # 150BC30

If you're already using a Garmin portable navigator, the BC 30 wireless backup camera makes a great addition to...

If you're already using a Garmin portable navigator, the BC 30 wireless backup camera makes a great addition to...

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26 questions - 54 answers

Item # 150BC30

About the Garmin BC 30

Alexander H.

Great Garmin add-on

If you're already using a Garmin portable navigator, the BC 30 wireless backup camera makes a great addition to your car, RV, or commercial truck. Mount the BC 30 on your license plate or anywhere on the rear of your vehicle, wire it for power, and it'll transmit a video image wirelessly to a variety of popular Garmin portable navigators, giving you a wide angle on what's behind you.
Back-up screen

The Garmin BC 30 provides parking assist guidlines to help you gauge distance when backing up.

Great Garmin add-on

If you're already using a Garmin portable navigator, the BC 30 wireless backup camera makes a great addition to your car, RV, or commercial truck. Mount the BC 30 on your license plate or anywhere on the rear of your vehicle, wire it for power, and it'll transmit a video image wirelessly to a variety of popular Garmin portable navigators, giving you a wide angle on what's behind you.

Your rear view

When you're reversing a fully packed car, RV, or commercial truck, you need confidence and finesse behind the wheel. But even the best backer-upper can benefit from the assistance of a backup cam. With the BC 30, you'll be able to easily toggle between your navigator's map mode and a full color, widescreen view of what's behind you. If you power the camera with a switch supply, the video feed will automatically appear on your Garmin's screen when you shift your vehicle into reverse.

Compatibility

This useful camera works with a variety of Garmin portable navigation units (see Details for compatibility). It also works with all Garmin Drive™, DriveSmart™, DriveAssist™, and DriveLuxe™ models.

Build a Garmin system

The flexibility of the BC 30 camera system makes expansion simple. If you own multiple cars, purchase an additional BC 30 camera and transmitter for each and simply swap your Garmin portable navigator and wireless receiver/power adapter between cars to serve as your display. If you need more than a backup view in your RV or commercial truck, one BC 30 wireless receiver accepts signals from up to four additional BC 30 cameras for side, front, trailer, or even interior views. Then, you can cycle through those custom views on your Garmin portable.

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Product highlights:

  • wireless backup camera system
  • Garmin portable navigator required for display (no screen included)
  • included wireless receiver accepts signals from up to four cameras for multiple views
  • CMOS image sensor with VGA (640 x 480) resolution
  • color video output
  • 140-degree horizontal and 115-degree vertical viewing angles
  • mounting hardware and power cable included
  • warranty: 1 year
  • MFR # 010-12242-10

What's in the box:

  • Backup camera w/ integrated bracket (attached 37" cable terminated by proprietary connector)
  • Wireless transmitter (w/ attached 11.5' power/ground cable and 31" camera cable)
  • 12-volt power adapter/wireless receiver (w/ attached 59" cable terminated by USB Mini-B connector)
  • 2 Screws
  • Hex-key
  • Installation Instructions
  • Important Safety/Product Information sheet
  • Caution note

Customer reviews for Garmin BC 30

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More details on the Garmin BC 30

Russ B.

Product Research

Features

Wireless Backup Camera System: When paired with a compatible GPS navigator from Garmin, the BC 30 wireless backup camera system helps you easily spot vehicles, pedestrians, pets and other hard-to-see obstructions behind your vehicle. A quality backup camera like the Garmin BC 30 can significantly enhance rearward visibility for drivers and, thus, help minimize the risk of "blind zone" accidents whenever your vehicle is moving in reverse.

Note: The Garmin BC 30 wireless backup system is meant as a back-up aid only; never solely rely on the backup camera when backing-up. In addition to using the backup camera, always look behind you to make sure everything is clear when backing up your vehicle.

Compatibility: The BC 30 wireless backup camera is compatible with select Garmin GPS navigators. A software update may be necessary when pairing your compatible Garmin navigation device with the BC 30 backup system. Current compatible GPS navigators include (as of September 2019):

  • Drive Series:
    • Drive 50, 50LM, 50LMT, 51LM, 51LMT-S, 52, 52 & Traffic, 60LM, 60LMT, 61LM, 61LMT-S
    • DriveAssist 50LMT, 51LMT-S
    • DriveLuxe 50LMTHD, 51LMT-S
    • DriveSmart 50LMT, 50LMTHD, 51LMT-S, 55, 55 & Traffic, 60LMT, 61LMT-S, 65 & Traffic, 65 with Amazon Alexa, 70LMT
    • DriveTrack 70LMT, 71
  • nüvi Series:
    • nüvi 55, 55LM, 55LMT, 56, 56LM, 56LMT, 57, 57LM, 57LMT, 58, 58LM, 58LMT
    • nüvi 65LM, 65LMT, 66LM, 66LMT, 67LM, 67LMT, 68LM, 68LMT
    • nüviCam LMTHD
    • nüvi 2457LMT, 2497LMT 2539LMT, 2557LMT, 2558LMTHD, 2559LMT, 2577LT, 2589LMT, 2597LMT, 2598LMTHD, 2599LMTHD, 2639LMT, 2689LMT, 2699LMTHD, 2789LMT
  • dēzl Series
    • dēzl 570LMT, 580LMT-S, 770LMTHD, OTR700
    • dēzlCam LMTHD
  • RV Series:
    • RV660LMT, RV770LMT-S, RV780 & Traffic
Note: The BC 30 will not prevent traffic information from being received; for GPS devices with embedded traffic.

2.4GHz Wireless System: The BC 30's transmitter and receiver operate on the 2.4 GHz ISM radio band. The BC 30 backup camera's wireless transmitter will send footage to the system's wireless receiver plugged into your compatible Garmin GPS navigator mounted up to 45' away. Range varies based on installation; some vehicles may require an extension cable (150BC20EXT, sold separately)

Rugged Camera: The BC 30 camera has a 1/3.7" CMOS image sensor with a resolution of 640 x 480. It has a wide 140° horizontal and a 115° vertical angle. Designed to withstand the rigors of highway travel, the BC 30 camera is IPX-7 waterproof rated, with an operating temperature range of -40° to +185° F. The camera's integrated mounting bracket lets you tilt the camera from 0° to 90° for the best viewing angle.

Auto & Manual Camera View: You can view the camera video at any time by pressing the camera icon on the navigation device screen. You can toggle between the map and the camera video in this manner. You can also wire the camera power to your reverse lights, and the navigator will automatically display the camera every time the vehicle is shifted into reverse, and revert back to navigation mode with shifted into a forward gear.

Guidance Lines: Guidance lines provide an approximate visual representation of the vehicle's path when in reverse. To provide the most accurate reference, you must initially align the guidance lines with the backup camera from your Garmin GPS navigator.

Note: The guidance lines feature is intended for informational and reference purposes only. You are responsible for maintain awareness of your surroundings.

Multiple Camera Setup: You can pair up to four Garmin wireless cameras (150BC30CAM, sold separately) with the BC 30 system and cycle through video feeds from all paired cameras from your Garmin GPS navigator. You can change the order in which the cameras appear, as well as rename each camera.

Mounting & Wiring: The camera comes with an adjustable mount that allows you to mount the camera on a horizontal or vertical surface on the outside rear of your vehicle. The wireless transmitter mounts on the interior of your vehicle (using tape/screws) and hardwires to your vehicle's rear lights, as well as plugs into the backup camera. The wireless receiver is integrated into the 12-volt/cigarette lighter power adapter which plugs into your vehicle's 12V power-port and the microUSB connector on your compatible GPS Garmin device (you will not use the power adapter cable that came with your GPS Garmin navigator).

Note: You should take note of which direction is up when testing the camera view before permanently mounting the camera.

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Customer Q&A

26 questions already asked

Q
Can this be mounted on the front plate and powered via the running lights? I would like to see just in front of my Honda Accord Hybrid because it sits very low and scrapes parking curbs.
william  Dec 14, 2020
3 answers
A
In terms of the wiring, I don't see why it wouldn't. The connection to the lights is simply to power up the transmitter you put the car in reverse. I reckon any light would do. The practicality for a front-mounted camera is a different matter. Even facing downward. Seems it would require constant cleaning to keep the lens clear enough to view.
christopher  Dec 19, 2020
A
It could be mounted on the front plate, But if powered by the running lights all you would have on the GPS display is this view. It would work but I would power it through a switch so you could turn it on and off.
thomas r  Dec 15, 2020
A
Yes
kevin  Dec 14, 2020
Q
will the back up camera work with the Drive smart 61 navagator?
bruce  Jan 22, 2020
1 answer
A
Hi Herbert, thank you for your question. The Garmin BC 30 backup camera is compatible with the Garmin DriveSmart 61LMT-S. If this is the model you have, you will be able to easily use this camera with that unit. Let us know if we can help you out with anything else! You can chat with us online or by phone at 1-800-324-9695.
jessica  Feb 07, 2020 (Staff)
Q
What do I need to install two cameras 1 for truck and 1 for RV. One regular price and 1 add on or what?
donald  Dec 11, 2018
1 answer
A
The Garmin BC 30 wireless back-up camera only works with compatible Garmin GPS navigation units. You can only use one camera with the compatible Garmin GPS units. For personalized assistance and recommendations, feel free to contact us directly by phone or through our online chat service: https://www.crutchfield.com/support/ContactUs.aspx
ryan  Dec 21, 2018 (Staff)
Q
What do I need to install two cameras 1 for truck and 1 for rv?
donald  Dec 11, 2018
1 answer
A
You'll need to pick a spot to mount the camera. A way to route the wire to the back up light. Also a place to mount the transmitter. You'll need some simple tools a connector to splice to the back up light wire and possibly a drill.
michael  Dec 11, 2018
Q
I already have a Garmin GPS navigation system. Can I buy just the camera (and necessary wiring, etc.), to plug into it, without buying the Garmin screen?
greg  Apr 04, 2018
5 answers
A
Yes. BUT, It depends on your model of Garmin. Check the Garmin website to confirm your model.
philip  Apr 04, 2018
A
I bought the camera separate. You have to check your particular model to see it is compatible. You can check on the Garmin site.
raymond  Apr 04, 2018
A
As long as the GPS unit is compatible. You can see a complete list of supported devices on Garmin's support page (Crutchfield won't let me post the actual link).
jason  Apr 04, 2018
A
es I had a Garmin GSP and just ordered the camera and harness. Works finw
william  Apr 04, 2018
A
I bought the BC-30 for my nuvi 2557. It worked well. I believe that this BC 30 only works with certain models of Garmin GPS devices. It is not compatible with my other nuvi. The image is good, but not great. It does provide you with an adequate view of what the camera sees. You also can adjust the guide lines to aid your backing up. It uses blue tooth to transmit the video to the Garmin. I like it well enough as it is certainly better than no rear video view, but if you compare it to larger screens on factory units you might feel it is less helpful.
james  Apr 04, 2018
Q
how to install bc 30 on toyota tundra truck?
glenn  Dec 01, 2017
1 answer
A
I installed it on a Chevy HHR by using the license plate clip that comes with it. The camera cable was routed along existing wiring., the module was located behind the lights in the fender. As for the Tundra, you may not want to mount it on the license plate if its low on the bumper, I would suggest super Velcro to mount the camera. Of course you need a compatible GPS to view.
william  Dec 02, 2017
Q
Has anyone tried to install this camera in their tailgate handle on their truck?
jeff  Sep 17, 2017
1 answer
A
Installed mine on license plate on lift gate on ford escape has never needed adjusted . Don't know how plan to mount, but if you have clearance for fingers to operate the handle it should work
frank  Sep 18, 2017
Q
i have a set of kappa6 speakers #k069712 the 10in whoofers are missing,iwould like to replace them can you help me?
ted  Aug 22, 2017
1 answer
A
Thanks for your question. I would recommend reaching out to an Advisor by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat. They should be able to help answer your question.
kenneth  Aug 23, 2017 (Staff)
Q
Is there a better bracket mount to the tag screws for the garmin BC 30 camera?
jerry  Jul 26, 2017
2 answers
A
I don't know,I'm using bracket that came with the unit on my Ford escape on the lift gate and even with opening and closing of the lift gate I have not had any issues with adjustment or any other problems for over a year
frank  Jul 28, 2017
A
Sorry. I am not sure. Mine worked well with whatever came with the package. All the best. Thanks.
ravindranath  Jul 27, 2017
Q
Would there be any concerns about mounting this system on a 2012 Nissan Frontier pickup? Any suggestions on where to mount the transmitter?
randy  Mar 26, 2017
3 answers
A
returned the BC 30 and bought a YAYA DIGITAL for a chevy 1500 ,works great
morrie  Mar 27, 2017
A
I am not sure on how this vehicle looks like. However, I see no reason why it should not be mounted as long as GPS can receive the signal from the transmitter meaning there is no obstruction between the two. Hope this helps. Thanks.
ravindranath  Mar 26, 2017
A
I hooked it up to a 2014 BMW X3 and Also hooked one up to a 2016 BMW 228i convertible with no problem. You will have to check with Garmin to see if it is compatible with your pickup.
john m  Mar 26, 2017
Q
How long after starting the car, does it take for the image to show up after shifting into reverse?
justwannaknow  Feb 16, 2017
3 answers
A
It takes mine about 2 seconds, works great.
greg  Feb 17, 2017
A
Almost immediately
mohammed  Feb 17, 2017
A
Just in 2-3 seconds .
ravindranath  Feb 17, 2017
Q
What is the amperage draw on the camera when its in use?
lawrence  Feb 08, 2017
1 answer
A
I'm afraid that information isn't provided in our research or the Garmin BC 30 owner's manual. You may want to try contacting Garmin's support directly for more details on that--you can visit their support page at http://support.garmin.com/en-US/ or call them (800-800-1020)
david  Feb 21, 2017 (Staff)
Q
Can the camera image be reversed so that I may use the Camera on the front of my vehicle?
walter  Dec 30, 2016
3 answers
A
I have been looking for a front bumper/grill mounted camera so that when I go off-roading in my 4x4 Tacoma I will know how close I am to a large rock or drop off when making a tight turn-around. The Ford Raptor has include a front mounted camera for a couple years now. Garmin if you are reading, please add to your software the option of reverse switching the image (I can make a switch to turn it on, acting as the Reverse)... Walt
walt  Jan 16, 2017
A
If you mount the camera on the front of your car, then it would show whatever you see ahead......but only when you are in reverse. Not sure why you would want to do thst.
william  Dec 31, 2016
A
Smart question but unfortunately there is not an option for reversal.
ayham  Dec 30, 2016
Q
does it work in low light conditions ? If not do you have any GPS/backup camera combos that will ?
joseph  Nov 27, 2016
2 answers
A
mine works well at night with my backup lights
john  Nov 28, 2016
A
Yes, it does.
ayham  Nov 28, 2016
Q
can bc30 work with nuvi 52?
ronald  Oct 08, 2016
1 answer
A
It's not on the compatibility list at the garmin website and the 52LM shows no such compatibility, so I would say the answer is no.
david  Oct 08, 2016
Q
Can a BC 30 be used with a Kenwood Radio?
jack  Jul 14, 2016
1 answer
A
You need a compatible garmin GPS
john  Jul 14, 2016
Q
Can the Garmin BC-30 backup camera be used with a Garmin Nuvi 2555LMT?
jim  Jun 01, 2016
2 answers
A
I do not believe it will. I'm not permitted to post the link, but go to Garmin BC-30 camera page and look at compatible devices. Bill
william  Jun 01, 2016
A
I believe so but you can make sure at the Garmin web site
juan  Jun 01, 2016
Q
Will this work with any in-dash video receiver such as Kenwood or Pioneer?
defzilla  Mar 18, 2016
1 answer
A
No. It's made for use only with compatible Garmin portable GPS units. You will find the complete list of compatible models by clicking the "Details" tab on the camera's main webpage. I hope that helps! My Bio: http://www.crutchfield.com/Support/Bio.aspx?bio=5
ryan  Mar 21, 2016 (Staff)
Q
Can any Garmins paired with the BC-30 automatically switch to the camera view when the car is in reverse? The BC-30 works with the nuvi 2597 but you must tap the camera icon first.
john  Mar 11, 2016
4 answers
A
No, you'll need to check the Garmin website to find the compatible models.
greg  Mar 12, 2016
A
I have not connected it with any other Garmin so can not say anything on other products.
ravindranath  Mar 11, 2016
A
If the camera gets its power from the backup light circuit, the GPS will automagically switch to camera view when you put the car into reverse. (I think that mode can be overridden, but you want it to work as such.) The downside to this is that you can't use the icon, since the camera isn't powered at all times. It,s one or the other mode.
alan  Mar 11, 2016
A
The camera will automatically come on in reverse with model2689 garmin. Bill
william  Mar 11, 2016
Q
Is there a wireless backup camera for the Nuvi 2972LM?
patrick  Feb 18, 2016
1 answer
A
You will want to contact an Advisor by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat to discuss compatibility with your current gear. They will be able to pull up your Nuvi and see if this will integrate. If it does not, then they will also be able to discuss other options with you.
jeff  Feb 22, 2016 (Staff)
Q
CAN IT BE USED WITH garmin nuvi 2797 ?
cigartom  Nov 20, 2015
2 answers
A
Yes!
norman  Mar 12, 2016
A
I did not use it with nuvi 2797. I would recommend that you talk directly to garmin support
dafer  Nov 22, 2015
Q
is the Garmin BC30 compatible with a Accele LCDP7QUAD monitor?
herman  Nov 08, 2015
4 answers
A
I am not sure, I am using mine with my garmi nuvi #2639 and 55.Really works great with them. Well satisfied and will recommend that camera.
william  Nov 11, 2015
A
I'm not sure about your compatibility question. I do know that the quality of picture from the BC30 is poor. I'm sorry I bought it.
dale  Nov 10, 2015
A
The BC30 transmits its signal via radio (bluetooth I believe) and is not compatible with standard monitors
john  Nov 10, 2015
A
I have no idea sorry.
john m  Nov 10, 2015
Q
Will a Garmin BC 30 wireless backup camera work on my long bed pick-up truck?
linda  Aug 06, 2015
1 answer
A
For details on fit or installation please contact an Advisor by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat. They will be able to pull up your vehicle and give you the details on if this will fit and what you will need for an installation in your vehicle.
kristina  Aug 10, 2015 (Staff)
Q
what gauge wire is it that needs to spliced into the 12v backuo lights ?
tim  Jun 29, 2015
6 answers
A
16 gauge will be plenty. Very low power draw from the Garmin unit
dale  Jul 01, 2015
A
I used the wire that came with the back-up camera. However I did have to replace the back up lights fuse from a 10a to 15a
jonathan  Jun 30, 2015
A
It's roughly 22-24ga. I ended up stripping and soldering with a cordless soldering iron I use for PC work. Even the smallest positap was too big (Honda Civic 2007 was my target car). Install went fine, will be writing a detailed review later. All 8 hours to install, not including research time and time taken to gathering tools. Seriously!
david  Jun 30, 2015
A
IT is small gauge wire. I would guess about 20 gauge
joe  Jun 30, 2015
A
You have to find the backup light wire on your car and that is the wire you splice into I used splice connector that you can get from and auto supply store. So splice the backup camera wire to the backup light wire and it should work. Before you splice try connecting the backup camera wire to your battery and see if the unit works. If everything works then do a permanent connection. Hope this helps you with you installation.
john m  Jun 30, 2015
A
I would recommend you pose that question to the Garman Corporation since they have the specs for their product. I purchased the product brought it to a professional technician and he spent over two hours trying to install the wireless backup camera without success. I spoke to technician and he spent over two hours trying to install the wireless backup camera without success. I spoke to garman customer service and they were unable to provide any assistance. I would not recommend the purchase of this product unless you were willing to spend garman customer service and they were unable to provide any assistance. I would not recommend the purchase of this product unless you were willing to spend 2 hours I'll contact time for the possible installation.
edward  Jun 30, 2015
Q
Why does this unit need a traffic power cord? My GPS 65LMT already picks up traffic and back up camera would only be used while car is in reverse.
hal  Apr 27, 2015
2 answers
A
The traffic cord has a receiver built in to receive the signal from the wireless trasmitter that installs in the back of the vehicle near the back up camera. If you don't use the power cord with the built in receiver, the backup camera will not work with the GPS device as it cannot receive the wireless signal from the camera.
lawrence  Feb 08, 2017
A
Apparently the traffic power cord is used to pickup up the bluetooth link from the camera. My set up would only work with the traffic power cord provided with the camera, not with the power cord that came with the GPS.
edward r.  Apr 28, 2015
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