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In modern vehicles, the “Rear View Camera System” is an increasingly common feature. The “Rear View Camera System” in the 2012 Ford Fusion significantly enhances both convenience and safety, particularly for drivers who frequently reverse or park in tight spaces. It provides a clear view of the area behind the vehicle, displayed on the dashboard screen, making it easier to detect obstacles or pedestrians that may be out of sight. This system reduces the risk of accidents by improving visibility and ensuring greater awareness when reversing. This article provides a step-by-step guide on how to use the rear view camera system in your 2012 Ford Fusion L4 2.5L.

How to Use the Rear View Camera System

System Overview

The rear view camera system, mounted on the trunk, displays a video feed of the area behind the vehicle on the rear view mirror or on the center infotainment screen. It offers added assistance to the driver when reversing or parking in reverse.

To activate the camera system, shift the transmission into R (Reverse); a video image will appear in the rear view mirror or on the infotainment screen. The view shown on the screen may change depending on the vehicle's orientation and road conditions.

• + (1) Back bumper
• + (2) Danger zone
• + (3) Caution zone
• + (4) Safe zone

Objects in the danger zone are nearest to your vehicle, while those in the safe zone are farther away. As objects move from the safe zone to the caution or danger zones, your vehicle is getting closer to them.

WARNING:

• The camera system is a supplementary reverse aid and must be used in conjunction with the rear view mirror and side mirrors for complete coverage.
• Objects near the corners of the bumper or underneath it may not be visible on the screen due to the limited coverage of the camera system.
• Reverse at the slowest possible speed, as higher speeds may reduce your ability to react quickly and stop the vehicle.
• Do not operate the camera system with the trunk open.

There may be a delay in the image when displayed through the rear view mirror:

When shifting from R (Reverse) to any other gear, the image in the rear view mirror will stay on for a few seconds before turning off, providing assistance for parking or trailer hookup.

There may be a delay in the image when shown on the infotainment screen:

After shifting out of R (Reverse) and into any gear other than P (Park), the image on the navigation screen will remain until vehicle speed reaches 5 mph (8 km/h), provided the rear camera delay feature is activated, or until any navigation radio button is pressed.

Note: The rear camera delay is set to off by default. To enable or disable the rear camera delay feature, press the “Settings” button on the infotainment screen. For more details, refer to the Navigation System supplement.

Camera Lens

The camera lens is located on the trunk. To ensure a clear and undistorted video image, keep the lens clean. Use a soft, lint-free cloth and a non-abrasive cleaner to clean the lens.

Note: If the camera system image appears unclear or distorted, it may be obstructed by water droplets, snow, mud, or other substances. In such cases, clean the camera lens before using the rear view camera system.

Use in dark environments and at night

At night or in dark environments, the camera system depends on the reverse lamps to generate an image. Therefore, both reverse lamps must be working to ensure a clear image in the dark. If either lamp is not functioning, avoid using the camera system, at least in the dark, until the lamp(s) are replaced and working properly.

System Maintenance

• If the image appears when the vehicle is not in R (Reverse), have the system checked by your authorized dealer.
• If the image is unclear, check for any obstructions on the lens, such as dirt, mud, ice, or snow, etc. If the image remains unclear after cleaning, have the system inspected by your authorized dealer.