2015-2023 Challenger & Charger Backup Camera: Fixing a Black, Blurry, or Flickering Screen

Common Symptoms of a Failing Dodge Backup Camera

When the rear video camera in a 2015-2023 Dodge Challenger or 2022-2023 Dodge Charger begins to fail, the signs are usually obvious on the infotainment screen. Understanding these symptoms can help you diagnose the problem correctly.

• Black or Blue Screen: The most common symptom is a completely black, blue, or blank screen when you shift into reverse. The radio may function normally in all other modes, but it fails to display the camera feed.
• Flickering or Intermittent Image: The video feed may cut in and out, flicker, or work only some of the time. Owners often report that the camera works intermittently, sometimes being fixed temporarily by opening and closing the trunk. This strongly suggests a wiring issue.
• Blurry, Fuzzy, or Washed-Out Image: The camera may still provide an image, but the quality is poor, making it difficult to see clearly. The image might appear dark, grainy, or washed out, especially in low light. While this can be a sign of the camera sensor failing, it can also be caused by a dirty or hazy lens.
• Inverted or Distorted Image: In some cases of electronic failure, the camera might display an upside-down or otherwise distorted image.
• "Check Surroundings" Message Stays On: The screen displays the standard warning message but never switches to the video feed.

Diagnosing the Problem: Is It the Camera, a Fuse, or the Wiring?

Before spending money on a new camera, it's important to perform a few simple diagnostic steps, as the camera itself isn't always the culprit.

1. Check the Fuses

The first and easiest thing to check is the fuse box. On the Challenger and Charger, the relevant fuse box is located in the trunk, near the battery. Check your owner's manual for the specific fuse numbers, but they are often labeled for the camera or park assist module. For the Challenger, fuses F44 and F45 in the rear fuse block are commonly associated with the camera system. Always visually inspect the fuse and test it with a multimeter if possible, as a fuse can be bad without showing a visible break.

2. Inspect the Trunk Wiring Harness

The most frequent point of failure for the backup camera system on these cars is the wiring harness that runs from the car's body into the trunk lid. Years of opening and closing the trunk can cause the wires inside this harness to fatigue and break. This leads to the intermittent flickering and black screens that many owners experience.

3. Check the Camera Connection

If the fuses and wiring harness seem okay, the next step is to check the electrical connector at the camera itself. You'll need to remove the trunk lid's inner trim panel to access it. This panel is held on by several plastic push clips. Once the panel is off, locate the camera's connector, unplug it, check for any corrosion on the pins, and plug it back in securely. A loose connection can cause many of the same symptoms as a failing camera.

Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

While Stellantis (Dodge's parent company) has issued numerous recalls for backup camera issues, they primarily affect other models like the Dodge Journey, Ram ProMaster, and newer vehicles with different radio software.

• 2019 Challenger Software Recall (W30-W37): There was a specific recall for some 2019 Dodge Challenger models where a software error could cause the rearview camera image to remain displayed after the vehicle was shifted out of reverse. This was resolved with a free software update from the dealer and does not cause a black screen.
• No Major Hardware Recalls for This Part: As of early 2026, there are no widespread hardware recalls for the camera itself on the 2015-2023 Challenger or 2022-2023 Charger. The most common failure remains the trunk wiring harness, which is considered a wear-and-tear item.

Buying a Used OEM Video Camera for Your Challenger or Charger

If you've determined the camera itself has failed, a used OEM unit is an excellent cost-saving alternative to an expensive new part from the dealer. Here’s what to look for:

• Verify the Part Number: The most critical step is to match the part number. While several numbers exist, ensure the one you buy is compatible with your vehicle's year and model. See the part number reference table below.
• Inspect the Lens: Check the camera lens for deep scratches, haziness, or signs of moisture intrusion behind the lens. A clear, clean lens is essential for good image quality.
• Check the Connector: Look at the electrical connector pins. They should be straight, clean, and free of any green or white corrosion.
• Ask About the Donor Vehicle: If possible, find out the mileage of the vehicle the part came from. A camera from a lower-mileage car is generally preferable. More importantly, ask if the camera was tested and confirmed to be working before removal.
• Why Used OEM is a Good Choice: A used original equipment (OEM) camera is designed to be a perfect plug-and-play fit. It will mount correctly and connect to the factory wiring without modification. Cheaper aftermarket cameras can have lower-quality sensors, poor low-light performance, and may not be as durable or weather-resistant as the factory part.

Cost to Replace the Rear Video Camera

The cost can vary significantly depending on whether you do the work yourself and the type of part you buy.

Rear Video Camera Replacement Overview

Replacing the camera is a straightforward job that most DIY mechanics can complete in under an hour.

1. Open the trunk and remove the inner trim liner by carefully prying out the plastic push clips.
2. Disconnect the main wiring harness for the trunk lid components.
3. Locate the nuts or screws holding the rear spoiler (Challenger) or trunk finish panel (Charger) and remove them.
4. Carefully lift the spoiler/panel to access the camera. Disconnect the camera's electrical connector.
5. The camera is typically held in place by two small screws. Remove them and the old camera.
🎬 Watch: Step-by-step spoiler removal and camera installation for your Challenger.
6. Install the new camera and reassemble everything in reverse order. No programming or dealer activation is typically required for a direct OEM replacement.

OEM Part Number Reference

Part numbers for these vehicles can supersede over time. The following are known valid numbers for the rear video camera. Always verify fitment for your specific VIN before ordering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)