Fakra to RCA Video Input Adaptor: Add Camera to Factory Screens

By CEN | Published: 2026-10-30

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to connect an aftermarket reversing camera to your factory screen using a Fakra to RCA adaptor. Step-by-step guide for Ford, Blaupunkt, Mercedes, and similar head units.

Quick answer

A Fakra to RCA video input adaptor lets you connect an aftermarket reversing camera to OEM navigation screens that use a Fakra connector. The adaptor does not activate the camera input—that may require coding or a separate trigger wire.

Why use an adaptor instead of cutting wires

Factory head units like Ford Sync, Blaupunkt, or Mercedes Comand NTG often have a dedicated Fakra video input port. Cutting the factory connector risks damaging the harness and voids warranties. A plug-and-play adaptor preserves the OEM wiring and makes future swaps simple.

The adaptor itself is a passive cable—it only converts the physical connector. If the factory radio does not have a video input activated from the factory, you will need to enable it via diagnostic software (e.g., FORScan for Ford, STAR for Mercedes) or install a video interface module.

Checking compatibility before you buy

Not all Fakra connectors are the same—there are multiple color-coded keys (blue, purple, green, etc.) for different signals. The video input typically uses a blue or purple Fakra plug. Confirm your head unit’s Fakra port color or pinout before ordering.

The CEN Fakra to RCA adaptor (product ID 1914381) fits standard Fakra video inputs found on many Ford, Blaupunkt, and Mercedes Comand NTG systems. If your radio uses a different key shape, you may need a separate adapter for the antenna or GPS.

How to install the adaptor

1. Disconnect the battery: Remove the negative terminal of the car battery to avoid shorting the radio or triggering airbag faults while working behind the dashboard. Wait at least 5 minutes after disconnecting to let the airbag capacitor discharge.
2. Locate the Fakra video input port: Remove the factory radio using trim tools (no metal pry bars). Look for a blue or purple Fakra connector labeled “CAM” or “VIDEO IN” on the back of the head unit. This is the port the adaptor plugs into. If no labeled port exists, check the vehicle’s wiring diagram—some units hide the video input behind a blank plug.
3. Connect the adaptor: Push the Fakra end of the CEN adaptor firmly onto the head unit’s video input port until it clicks. Route the RCA end toward the camera cable location. Do not force the connector—if it does not click, the key shape may be wrong. Common mistake: plugging the adaptor into a Fakra antenna port instead of the video port. The antenna port is usually brown or black.
4. Connect the camera RCA cable: Plug the RCA connector from your aftermarket reversing camera into the adaptor’s female RCA jack. If your camera uses a 4-pin connector, you will need a separate RCA adapter. Checkpoint: ensure the camera’s power and ground wires are connected to the reverse light circuit (or a dedicated 12 V source) before testing the video signal.
5. Test and activate the input: Reconnect the battery, put the car in reverse, and check the factory screen for the camera image. If the screen stays black or shows “No Signal,” the video input may need to be activated via software (e.g., FORScan for Ford, STAR for Mercedes). Do not assume a blank screen means a faulty adaptor—activation is a separate step. Many factory radios ship with the camera input disabled.

Product facts

Fakra to RCA Video Input Adaptor Cable Ford Blaupunkt NX Mercedes Comand NTG: CEN Fakra to RCA adaptor converts the Fakra video input on OEM navigation units to a standard RCA female port. This lets you plug any aftermarket reversing camera with an RCA output directly into the factory screen without cutting or soldering wires.
Fakra to RCA Video Input Adaptor Cable Ford Blaupunkt NX Mercedes Comand NTG