Audi A3 Around View Monitor Review — Enhanced Parking Safety
Service Price
$150+
Estimated price · Actual price may vary by shop
Audi A3 around view monitor installation enhances parking safety with 1080P HD cameras and integrated dashcam. Seamless MMI integration.
Why Your Audi A3 Needs an Around View Monitor
The Audi A3, a masterclass in German engineering, presents a challenge for drivers when it comes to parking. Significant blind spots exist, particularly in the rear quarter panels and below the front bumper, making tight urban parking a source of stress. This is precisely why installing an around view monitor (also known as a 360 camera or surround view system) is highly recommended for the A3. Data from over 1,000 installation locations shows that a combination of an around view system and a dashcam is particularly satisfying for owners of this model.
Understanding the 2D Super View Around View System
The 2D Super View system, as seen in this Audi A3 installation, seamlessly integrates with the car's original MMI infotainment system, preserving the factory user interface. The installation utilizes a 'plug-and-play' wiring method, ensuring no damage to the original wiring harness and allowing for easy removal if needed. The cameras themselves boast 1080P Full HD resolution, offering significantly clearer images than standard backup cameras. Four cameras are strategically placed: front (grille), rear (trunk lid), left (side mirror), and right (side mirror). The front and rear cameras are mounted without drilling, replacing existing mounts to maintain the vehicle's body integrity.
Seamless Integration with Audi A3's Systems
Operation is intuitive: shifting into reverse (R) automatically displays a top-down 360-degree view along with the rear camera feed. Engaging drive (D) switches the view to the front. This transition occurs within 0.3 seconds, ensuring an uninterrupted driving experience. A standout feature is the 'forced call' function; pressing the hazard light button twice quickly brings up the around view display, invaluable in complex parking situations like underground garages. This function is designed to align with the A3's native UI logic for ease of use.
The system also includes Power Assisted Steering (PAS) integration, which highlights the corresponding camera view as you turn the steering wheel. It works in conjunction with the factory Parking Distance Control (PDC) sensors, displaying obstacle distances on the monitor with an accuracy of within ±5cm. Furthermore, the system offers a 'trigger function' that emphasizes the side camera view when the corresponding turn signal is activated, which can be toggled on or off according to driver preference.
Integrated Dashcam Functionality
A significant benefit of the 2D Super View system is its integrated dashcam capability. All four cameras record simultaneously, providing comprehensive footage of any incident from multiple angles—front, rear, left, and right—which can be crucial for accident reconstruction. Recordings are stored on a microSD card (up to 128GB) and utilize loop recording to automatically overwrite the oldest footage when the card is full.
Installation Process:
- Mounting the four 1080P HD cameras in their designated positions (front grille, trunk lid, side mirrors).
- Connecting the cameras to the main control unit using plug-and-play wiring harnesses.
- Integrating the control unit with the Audi A3's original MMI system.
- Configuring the display modes and trigger functions via the MMI interface.
- Testing all functionalities, including automatic view switching, forced call, and PAS integration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does an around view monitor cost for an Audi A3?
The installation featured in this review cost approximately 1,200,000 Korean Won. Typical US pricing for similar 360 camera systems can range from $500 to $1500, depending on the brand and features.
Q. How long does an around view monitor last on an Audi A3?
With proper installation and care, an around view monitor system can last for many years, often matching the lifespan of the vehicle's electronics. Regular cleaning of the camera lenses is recommended to maintain optimal performance.
Q. Is an around view monitor worth it for an Audi A3?
An around view monitor is highly beneficial for Audi A3 owners who frequently navigate tight parking spaces or experience visibility issues. It significantly enhances parking safety and reduces the risk of minor collisions, offering peace of mind.
Q. How is an around view monitor installed on an Audi A3?
Installation involves mounting four 1080P HD cameras on the front, rear, and side mirrors, connecting them via plug-and-play wiring to avoid damaging the original harness, and integrating the system with the car's MMI display. The system is then configured for seamless operation.
Q. What is the best around view monitor option for an Audi A3?
The 2D Super View system offers excellent integration with the Audi A3's original MMI and includes valuable features like a built-in dashcam and PAS integration. For enhanced rear visibility, combining it with a quality 11.3-inch dashcam like the FineDrive LX5 is a highly recommended setup.
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