We had assumed that plastic thing was to prevent people from stealing spare tires from the dealers. We’ve read that it’s a serious problem nowadays. Andy says even though the latch broke it still is solidly on the Jeep…it has to be pried off.
So he didn’t think we needed to replace it, but I was curious and spent a long time Saturday trying to see if we could get a replacement. The first thing I learned was it is not there to keep the tire from being stolen. Spare tire locks are completely different.
So what the heck was the plastic thing for? I found a site that had all the parts for our Jeep and it turned out it’s a camera cover. They’re inexpensive so I bought a couple. I’ll let you know if they fit.
As usual, life is one adventure after another.
April 15, 2024
Well I never, why is there a camera there and why would you want to cover it? what does it take a photo of? these questions are your mission if you choose to take it. don’t let me lose sleep for two long before I get the answers
It’s a camera that lets you see what’s behind the car as you back up. They’ve been required on nnew cars since 2018. It doesn’t take pictures, it’s connected to a screen on your dashboard. See https://www.caranddriver.com/car-accessories/g44411856/best-backup-cameras-tested/
Well isn’t that interesting. Now I have so many questions. Why would you need a camera there? Why would you cover it if it was there? How does it work? And just so many more…lol
It’s for seeing what’s behind you as you back up. The cover protects the camera from mud and dirt. See https://www.caranddriver.com/car-accessories/g44411856/best-backup-cameras-tested/
I am laughing at Sandra’s comment. Does the jeep.have the back up.camera?
They’ve been required on all new cars since 2018.
I was going to ask the same thing as Sandra, Ann and Rose!
6+ months after the fact, I’m still not used to using the back-up camera feature on my Taos — and opt instead to look over my shoulder.
🙂
Why would a camera cover be on a wheel?
The camera is behind the wheel. The cover is to protect it from dirt and mud.
Well, that is interesting. Is there a backup camera in there?
They’ve been required on all new cars since 2018.
That must be there to film what you run over!
😀
thanks everyone for your thoughts and Jean’s sleuthing to obtain the answer!
I certainly learned a lot!
glad you let me know you answered because I got a lot of laughs reading everyone’s comments and your replies.
Yes, a lot of neat comments. They show it was a good thing to write about. 🙂