I have encountered a frustrating situation in my attempt to purchase and have installed an aftermarket reverse camera system in my 2012 Audi A4 Avant. My first calls were to local Phoenix, AZ area Audi dealers. Each advised that one could not be installed in my Audi because of the complexity and engineering of the OEM Nav-MMI equipment.

Next, I contacted ten area auto repair shops, five custom auto shops and twelve car audio vendor-installation shops. Many told me that they would take on a 2012 Audi aftermarket installation. Others simply never called me back as they said they would after our initial phone call.

Although I do not want to accept the fact that the Nav MMI system screen in the dash of the 2012 A4 cannot be used to display an aftermarket backup system’s video, I have run out of options.

I do not want to employ a system that displays the video on a mirror attached to the Audi’s mirror or to have a small video screen mounted to a place on the dashboard. Nevertheless, this looks to be the only present solution.

I would appreciate suggestions.

 

I would have been astonished if any aftertmarket system could use the Audi MMI display - there is no provision for an external video feed in these as far as I know.

Does it have to be a camera? There are backup warning systems that use ultrasonic transducers and deliver a series of beeps to the driver. I have such a system (factory) on my current car (Saab 9-3) and it works quite well, I know there are aftermarket versions, and you have much more flexibility as to where the receiver/sounder is placed.

 

sbl, yes I know of those systems. In fact, I had one in a former car. It would not meet my needs.

I live among "old" people like myself in a gated community. No one here thinks anyone has the right of way except them. Thus, no one looks when walking in front of a garage while a car in backing out.

I really want to be able to see better when I back out especially at night. The aftermarket system I had in Lexus SC430 had a wide backup lens and it saved me counless times from squashing another old fart like myself.

I am spoiled having put in a great aftermarket system in my Lexus SC430 and want a similar one in my audi.

 

So, why did you not buy the Audi system in your car?

 

"So, why did you not buy the Audi system in your car?"

I ordered my A4 Avant WITH a backup system. Two days afterI got out of the hospital, the Avant arrived at the dealership and I picked it up. There was no backup system in it. Although the dealer was contrite and apologized, the car still was minus the backup system.

Circumstances at that exact time about my IMMEDIATE need for a car that could hold a wheelchair for my wife who was scheduled to leave the hospital the next day influenced my thinking about the amount of time needed to search the country and obtain an Avant with a camera system. My Lexus SC430 (that I subsequently sold for funds to buy the Avant) would not hold a wheel chair. So, I accepted the AVant minus a backup camera system.

Even though my Avant does not have the camera system, it fits our needs and feeds our desires for a fine car. I am not sorry that I bought it; only, that it did not arrived as I had ordered it.

 

Have you considered backing in to the garage?

 

Sorry to hear that but I think you should be more aggressive with the dealer and/or AoA. You ordered (and paid for) a feature which was essential to you and they messed up. A refund for it (which I am sure you got) is simply inadequate.

 

sbl, that is not a bad idea. I have done that with other cars in other garages.

Unfortunately, it would not be advantageous at present because of the exhaust fumes would envelope freezer, washer, dryer and the entry door to our house that are all located immediately behind the car if the I backed into the garage.

Thanks anyway. It is a good suggestion.

 

kal, I did have a spirited meeting with the dealer. Yes, I did receive a monetary adjustment. Nevertheless, I accepted the Avant and now am attempting to find, buy and have installed a backup system.

 

you have a real heart on for that backup camera. it's not a freaking dump truck or hummer. jeez. if you can't see with your mirrors then you must really suck at reversing. take a driving course.