Troubleshooting Mercedes GLA Reverse Camera Not Functioning
When the reverse camera on a Mercedes GLA stops working, the cause is usually small: a dirty lens, a frayed wire or loose connector, a blown fuse, or a display that is not getting power. Check them in that order. Only replace the camera once the display, wiring and fuses are ruled out.
The GLA's camera sits by the license plate and switches on every time you select reverse. It has a 120° viewing angle, so everything behind the car can be seen without distortion. If you're having problems with your reversing camera system, the good news is that most faults can be fixed quickly and easily.
TL;DR
- Hazy or grainy picture: the lens is dirty; wipe it with a soft cloth.
- Black-and-white, flashing or static picture: a frayed wire or bad connection.
- No picture in reverse, or the screen stays off: check the installation, wiring and power to the display.
- "No Signal": check the fuses and power cords (normally below the trunk panel), then the camera itself.
- The camera covers a 120° viewing angle from its spot by the license plate.
- If this is not your case, read the Mercedes MBUX complete guide.
Table Of Content
- Where do you start?
- Why is the reverse camera image blurry or grainy?
- Why does the camera show black and white images instead of colour?
- Why does the camera not come up when in reverse?
- What does a No Signal message mean?
- Conclusion
1. Where Do You Start?
When you're dealing with a challenging problem, you may feel as if you don't know what to do next. When it comes to problems with your backup camera, the first thing you need to figure out is how much control you have over the situation. If your backup camera issues appear overwhelming or beyond your abilities, seek assistance from a mechanic.
If you're a DIYer, knowing how the car's electrical system works helps a lot. Here are the problems you are likely to meet with your Mercedes GLA rearview camera and how to fix them:
| Symptom | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Hazy or grainy image | Dirt, dust, moisture or mud on the lens | Wipe the camera with a soft cloth |
| Black-and-white image, flashing or static | Frayed cable or defective connection | Check every wire and connector; repair damage |
| No image when reverse is engaged | Kit installed or configured wrongly, or loose wiring | Check the installation handbook and the wiring |
| Display does not turn on at all | Damaged display or not enough power to it | Check the display's connection and power supply |
| "No Signal" message | Blown fuse, frayed or disconnected power cord, or a camera that needs a reset | Check the fuses and power cords below the trunk panel, then inspect or replace the camera |
Camera and parking settings are under Settings > Assistance > Camera & Parking (see MBUX tips and tricks), and the operator's manual for your GLA is on Mercedes-Benz USA's owner's manuals page.
2. Why Is the Reverse Camera Image Blurry or Grainy?
The purpose of a rear vision camera is to capture the action behind the vehicle in the best possible clarity. There may be dirt on the camera if the display isn't presenting a clean, high-quality image and instead gives you a hazy or grainy image. Due to their proximity to the ground, cameras acquire dust, wetness, and mud. To remove any debris or dust, wipe the camera with a soft cloth.
3. Why Does the Camera Show Black and White Images Instead of Colour?
A black-and-white image can be displayed due to frayed cables or defective connections. You likely have a frayed wire or a defective connection if your display is flashing or giving you black and white static. Make sure your system's wires and connectors are all linked and, if necessary, fix any damage.
4. Why Does the Camera Not Come Up When in Reverse?
Reversing cameras begin recording as soon as the reverse gear is engaged. If the image does not appear right away, there is an issue somewhere in the system. There are a few options available to you:
- Check the supplier's handbook to make sure the kit is installed and configured correctly.
- Check the wiring: if there are any loose or badly connected wires, the picture may not reach the screen.
If your display won't turn on at all, it's most likely a display issue rather than a camera issue. It could be that the monitor is damaged or broken, or that it is improperly connected (you have to ensure that you're sending the necessary amount of electricity to the display).
5. What Does a No Signal Message Mean?
Your camera could be sending you this notification for a variety of reasons. If it's a Wi-Fi camera that was previously working, the camera likely has to be reset. Check the wiring and power cords as well, as a wire or a cord may have frayed or become separated.
Check your fuses and power cords for the camera (which are normally placed below the trunk panel of your car). It's possible that a fuse blew or that a wire frayed and became disconnected. (With these kinds of problems, this is generally the best-case situation.)
If you have a wired backup camera, the issue is more than likely wiring. Checking your fuses to make sure everything is connected (and not blown) and following the cabling and wires from the camera to the display should uncover the issue.
NOTE: If the display is turning on and there isn't any indication that there is a signal after trying all the above troubleshooting procedures, then the problem could be with your camera. Examine it for damage and, if required, replace it.
6. Conclusion
These are just a handful of the problems your rear vision camera system could encounter. The majority of these issues aren't too complicated and can be resolved with some easy checks and upkeep. If the issues remain, you'll probably need a new reversing camera system.
If the camera drops out together with other extras such as the PDC sensors and an "auxiliary battery malfunction" message, read Mercedes-Benz auxiliary battery malfunction, since those extras run off the auxiliary battery.