Often referred to as the “Chevy invisible trailer” feature, this groundbreaking camera technology will change the way you look at trailering forever. So how does the new Chevy Silverado truck see through a trailer?
Thanks to available camera packages that allow for up to 15 different viewpoints*, Chevy’s Transparent Trailer View can make the trailer behind your truck appear invisible simply by measuring certain dimensions, mounting a Chevy accessory camera on your trailer, and properly calibrating the system. Ride along with Vern Eide GM in Mitchell as we explore the Transparent Trailer View feature.
Visibility issues were always inevitable when towing large objects, until now. Chevy’s Transparent Trailer View allows the driver to virtually see through a conventional hitched box or camping trailer as if it were invisible.
Provided that your truck has been properly equipped and the system is compatible with your trailer, Transparent Trailer View will combine different camera angles of the area behind your truck and trailer, and display this virtual image on your infotainment screen. No longer will South Dakota drivers have to depend solely on their mirrors for help.
Before we make whatever you’re trailering invisible (virtually, of course), you will have to set up Transparent Trailer View. You will need a properly equipped truck, a compatible trailer, and tools to install the accessory camera. Make sure you have the following things listed below before you get started:
Perform the following steps to set up Transparent Trailer View on your properly equipped Chevy truck:
1. Install the Accessory Trailer Camera. To enable Transparent Trailer View, you will need to mount the accessory trailer camera in a specific area on the back of your trailer. Click on the more button to see detailed instructions.
The ideal position to mount the camera lens is:
Mount the camera. Then, route and secure the wiring harness on the outside of the trailer. For routing guidelines, read the camera installation instructions provided at purchase.
Connect the camera to the connector at the trailer hitch. It should be connected to the rear trailer camera port.
2. Enter the trailer’s dimensions into your Trailer Profile. Via the home screen of your truck’s infotainment system, tap the trailering icon to enter your compatible trailer’s exact dimensions into the Trailer Profile. Click on the more button to see detailed instructions.
From your trailer profile screen, select Towing Assistance Setup › Transparent Trailer › Yes, Get Started
Follow the prompts on screen to enter the seven required dimensions (round up to the nearest inch or centimeter), using the diagrams to find the right place to measure. You’ll be asked to enter:
Once all dimensions are entered, select “Save and Continue.” Then, begin the calibration steps detailed in the next section.
You can also use the myChevrolet or myGMC Mobile App3 to enter your trailer’s dimensions on your compatible smartphone if you have active connected services4. This way, you don’t have to go back and forth between the trailer and the infotainment screen with measurements. Then, you can sync your profile information between the truck and the mobile app.
3. Calibrate Transparent Trailer View. The final step is calibrating the Transparent Trailer View system. This process will confirm the dimensions you entered in step #1 to create an accurate view of what’s behind the trailer. To complete the calibration and set up, ensure the trailer is attached, your Trailer Profile is active, and simply drive forward in a straight line. Click on the more button to see detailed instructions.
Calibration begins automatically, but you can monitor the progress by tapping the CAMERA app icon on your infotainment system Home screen.
2 App functionality and features vary with vehicle equipment and trim level. Data connection may be required. Some features require active service plan and working electrical system.
3 Available on select Apple and Android devices. Service availability, features and functionality vary by vehicle, device and the plan you are enrolled in. User terms apply. Device data connection required. See onstar.com for details and limitations.
4 Connected services vary by vehicle model and require active service plan, working electrical system, cell reception and GPS signal. Does not include emergency or security services. See onstar.com for details and limitations.
Source: https://my.chevrolet.com/how-to-support/recommended/transparent-trailer
