Anytime/front rear camera system

I’ve upgraded my head unit to a Sony AV8500 which already has multiple composite camera inputs ready to go. As such, I’m not sure I need all the adapter harnesses that come with the kit if I want to add a front camera. (Rear camera is already anytime with the Sony). Am I interpreting that wrong, or do I just need to get a camera and run the wires?

 

Won't you need multiple cameras and wiring for each camera to plug into your Sony?

P.S. you will love your front camera, it should have come oem.

 

The Sony has three camera inputs, CAM1, CAM2, and rear. So theoretically I just need to run a line to the back of the head unit and tap into power.

 

Correct.

Because I still have the oem deck, I used the anytime backup camera kit, which also came with the front camera, and a dual switch on the dash. But when I throw it in reverse, it automatically goes to back camera overriding the switch. Genius!

I'll assume your Sony will do the same.

 

Link to the head unit? Looking to replace my stock one soon

 

It’s fantastic!

https://www.crutchfield.com/S-tS6vv...654cvOrfhAHF_3cip-aNsrSR7q-vR0qQaAhujEALw_wcB

 

The Sony behaves as OEM when you put it in reverse, but there’s also a button on the touchscreen to activate the cameras whenever you want.

The main thing that has me scratching my head is that all I’m finding is entire kits. Not sure if just the camera is available.

 

If I'm hearing you right Dan, you will need to invest in a front camera if it doesn't come with the Sony. And if so, better inquire if the wiring comes with it.

 

Aha! Trail Grid Pro to the rescue:

https://trailgridpro.com/products/front-camera-9500es?_pos=1&_sid=e2556e924&_ss=r

 

Just to update, the Trail Grid Pro camera worked great. The hardest part was getting the camera wire through the firewall. It took maybe an hour, but that was with frequent breaks to go inside to warm up since it decided to drop into the 20's this week.