This procedure covers the diagnosis, removal, and replacement of the backup camera on a 2016-2021 Honda Civic 1.5L Turbo, including testing and calibration verification.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Backup camera assembly × 1 — Use OEM Honda part 39530-TBA-A01 or equivalent
• Tailgate trim clips (if broken) × 5 — Use OEM specification
• Camera grommet/seal × 1 — Usually included with camera assembly

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 3 minutes
3. Clean tailgate area around camera to prevent debris from entering during disassembly
4. Take photo of camera wiring routing for reference during reinstallation

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove tailgate interior trim panel
   Open the tailgate fully. Using trim panel removal tools, carefully pry out the lower trim panel starting at the bottom corners. Work your way around the perimeter, releasing all retaining clips. Remove the trim panel and set aside, noting any clips that may have remained in the tailgate.
2. 2

   Access camera connector
   Locate the backup camera wiring harness behind the trim panel. The connector is typically positioned on the driver's side of the tailgate. Peel back any protective tape or sound deadening material to access the connector fully.
3. 3

   Disconnect camera electrical connector
   Press the release tab on the camera connector and carefully pull the connector apart. Do not pull on the wires themselves. If connector is corroded or difficult to release, spray with electrical contact cleaner and wait 30 seconds before attempting again.
4. 4

   Remove camera mounting fasteners
   From the exterior of the tailgate, locate the camera assembly above the license plate. Remove the two Phillips head screws securing the camera housing to the tailgate. These screws are typically covered by a small trim piece that clips into place.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
5. 5

   Extract camera assembly
   Gently pull the camera assembly straight out from the tailgate. The wiring harness will feed through the tailgate opening. Carefully guide the connector and wiring through to avoid snagging. Remove the rubber grommet/seal from the tailgate opening and inspect for damage.
6. 6

   Inspect and prepare new camera
   Compare new camera assembly with old unit to verify correct replacement part. Inspect the camera lens for protective film and remove if present. Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the electrical connector terminals on the new camera to prevent corrosion. Ensure rubber grommet is properly seated on the new camera body.
7. 7

   Install new camera assembly
   Feed the camera wiring harness through the tailgate opening from exterior to interior. Ensure the rubber grommet seats properly in the tailgate hole to create a weatherproof seal. Align the camera housing with the mounting holes, ensuring the camera orientation is correct (lens facing rearward and level).
8. 8

   Secure camera mounting screws
   Install the two mounting screws and tighten to specification using a torque wrench. Do not overtighten as this can crack the camera housing or deform the tailgate sheet metal. Verify camera sits flush against tailgate and grommet seal is not pinched.
   Torque spec

   Cover Screws10 Nm (8 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Route the camera harness according to the reference photo taken during disassembly. Connect the camera electrical connector, ensuring it clicks firmly into place. Gently tug on both sides of the connector to verify it is fully seated and locked.
10. 10

    Reinstall interior trim panel
    Replace any sound deadening material or protective tape that was removed. Position the tailgate trim panel and align all clips with their respective holes. Press firmly around the perimeter until all clips are fully seated and the panel is secure. Verify panel gaps are even and consistent.
11. 11

    Reconnect battery and initialize system
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal and tighten to specification. Do not overtighten the terminal bolt as this can damage the battery post. Turn the ignition to ON position (do not start engine) and wait for all systems to initialize, approximately 30 seconds.
    ⚠Ensure battery terminal is clean and free of corrosion before reconnecting; poor connection can cause electrical system faults
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Verify all trim panels are properly seated and clips are engaged
2. Check camera lens is clean and free from fingerprints or debris
3. Ensure camera grommet is properly sealed to prevent water intrusion into tailgate
4. Verify no tools or parts were left inside the tailgate cavity

Verification

• Start the vehicle and shift transmission into Reverse while monitoring the infotainment display
• Verify backup camera image appears on screen within 1-2 seconds of shifting to Reverse
• Check camera image quality is clear with no distortion, proper color, and correct orientation
• Verify backup guide lines appear correctly on the display (if equipped)
• Test camera in various lighting conditions if possible (bright sunlight, shade, low light)
• Inspect camera mounting area from exterior to ensure weatherproof seal is intact
• Check for any warning lights or camera-related error messages on instrument cluster
• Perform a test drive with several reverse maneuvers to confirm consistent camera operation

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