Parking sensors

gtabaz

SO i was thinking about installing parking sensors because backing up in the z is incredibly inconvenient Does anyone know how i can go about this and what are the proper materials i need to get this project done? Thanks for the info!

bigdog1250

Most people install backup cameras... especially due to the blind spot, so they can see car's coming. Sensors are less helpful and likely more of a pain in the *** to install.

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370ZilverZ

Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. This back-up camera is combined with sensors and is perfect for the Z IMO. I have it and it works great.

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BMW Z4

Guard Dad

I have a backup camera and it displays on the Pioneer audio system, very helpful.

My wife's Volvo XC60 crossover has a backup camera plus rear AND front sensors (with a graphic display) in combination they REALLY make a difference in close quarters maneuvering. Amazon has quite a selection of affordable DIY sensor kits but I've yet to pull the trigger. I really ought to act on this since I've nearly hit my Stillen front lip/splitter on curbs a couple of times. Based on my experience with the Volvo you can get spoiled by the sensors such that when I'm in the Z I'm a bit paranoid about curbs and parking bumpers.

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2010 Brilliant Silver, Base w/Sport Package, AT7, Katzkin leather, upgraded audio and lots of Dynamat and a bunch of small stuff.

axmea?

You will need to decide on the sensor first. They appear to look the same to me but a good one will have front and rear sensors with audio and visual alerts. Installation is straight forward. You do not have to remove the rear bumpers to install the sensors. If you decide to have sensors for the front you will need to figure out the best place to put them. Placing two sensors would not look bad on the black bar across running on top of the opening (where the front plates go). Placement of the other two front sensors is not as tacky on a black Z but will definitely look bad on PW's, Yellow's, Silver, and GM --- that's just my opinion. The brain goes inside the car of course and will need to tap power from a source with sufficient amperage. Always a good idea to have it's own fuse. You can check the fuse box to use a spare spot or simply use an in-line fuse. The small speaker for audio alerts can be placed anywhere hidden under the dash or under your steering column. The module for visual alert can be placed on top of your steering column or on ceiling just in front of the driver's side.

Do not forget, you will need to tap the power source that is triggered when the car is put in reverse. Otherwise, the darn thing will alert you each time someone comes within the operating range of the sensors. If you decide on front sensors and you come too close to another car while in traffic, it will engage so you need a switch for the front when you need it. The switch for the front is not for the power for the module but for the sensors. It's not that difficult to do.

Pretty labor intensive if you ask me but I think it is worth the mod. It is less intensive if you are only doing the back up.

I have a G37 with the Nav/Touring and comes with the sensors, camera, and display. It works flawlessly. I have the Nav/Touring in the Z but it does not have sensors so I can see what I'm backing into but does not have the audio alert which I thought was pretty lame.

370ZilverZ

The Alpine system that I posted above, also has a add-on front camera option wich ties in together using the same switch to select views that the rear one does. Great for saving your spoiler from curb dings.

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