Today’s midsize and full-size Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks already have fantastic tech features, from HD backup cameras to trailer assist systems to even surround-view options on higher-end trims.
But there’s one upgrade that can help improve your visibility behind you from a higher level and provide a lot of convenience when backing up to your 5th Wheel RV; the third brake light camera.
Whether you use your truck for work, play, or pleasure, this simple upgrade can give you a vantage point that is unmatched behind your tailgate, and above all, one that can be added without the expensive trim level package the factory makes you buy to get.
1. Improved Rear Visibility from a Higher Angle
The included rear (tailgate) camera provides a low ground-level view, ideal for lining up to docks or reversing with a trailer.
However the location also severely restricts how much you can look around, either beyond the bumper or over the bed rails.
A third brake light camera, positioned high above the back window, provides a wide, top-down view that is blind spot-free and gives you a safer view of what’s behind your truck.
This is especially helpful when:
- Your tailgate comes off or gets replaced (flatbeds, campers)
- You pull RV’s or fifth wheel trailers that require lining up to a fifth wheel hitch or pop-up goose neck ball in the bed of the truck.
- You need to monitor your surroundings beyond what the backup view provides
Think of it as adding a drone-like view of your truck’s rear area, always ready when you need it.
2. Real-Time Cargo and Hitch Monitoring
For Silverado and Sierra owners who load their tools, equipment, or supplies in the bed of the truck, the third brake light camera functions as a cargo monitoring system.
Suspended above your bed at the top area of the cab, it allows you to see:
- If your cargo shifts while driving
- If straps or covers have become loose
- Your gooseneck/fifth wheel hitch will slide easier into position.
Although the tailgate camera on the higher end trim levels will turn on through the touchscreen while in forward motion, the lower end models only active in reverse. Adding a third brake light kit will allow for activation anytime through the supplied HD Rear View Mirror.
MVI can also make displaying on the factory screen possible using one of our factory integrated camera modules. We do offer 3 different versions to accommodate IOR 7” or 8” Infotainment Systems as well as the 8” IOS / IOT systems with our 2 Camera Input Module.
MVI can also get creative and supply a camera that will work with our Intellihaul 2.0 and Intellihaul 3.0 camera kits. Adding this as an option on Intellihaul kits would eliminate the use of one of the other cameras, though.
For basic onscreen display with our 2 camera input module can be seen in operation here: Front and 2nd Rear Camera Module Operation
To see an example of utilizing an: HD Rear View Mirror for Anytime Rear View Display
3. Seamless Integration with Factory Systems
This modification is ideal for the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra models from 2019 to 2026 because of the very limited options out there for adding a third brake light camera solution.
MVI does offer a great solution for the 2014 – 2019 (old body) models as well and that can be found Here: 2014 – 2019 Third Brake Light Camera
The majority of third brake light camera kits are made to replace the current brake light housing. However, with MVI’s focus on preserving the factory appearance while adding high-definition camera display, we keep the factory light in place and add a perfect fit mount that goes just underneath the factory light and the trucks metal skin or fiberglass rear spoiler.
When used with the proper camera interface, the camera will:
- Connects directly to the original equipment manufacturer’s radio for factory infotainment display
- Can be pulled up anytime by micro toggle switch, steering wheel button or on-screen interface (depending on system used).
- complements current surround or rear cameras to provide multiple views.
That means no clunky add-on screens or dangling cables, just a clean, OEM-quality install that looks and feels factory-made. Here’s an install video shown on a older model truck if you are into DIY upgrades. DIY 3rd Brake Light Install
4. Added Safety Beyond the Rear Camera
Only the higher trim newer body style trucks offer the tailgate handle camera to be viewed while moving forward, leaving the lower trim levels and the older body trucks only able to view while in reverse; making it helpful for parking but useless for real-time awareness.
Conversely, a third brake light camera offers continuous visibility, which makes it a crucial safety element for:
- Changing lanes or merging while having a small back view
- Pulling a trailer or RV, or simply monitoring the load being hauled in the bed.
When modifications like bed caps, campers or tonneau covers folded up, obscure the view of the rearview mirror, having a specialized brake light camera guarantees that you can still see.
5. Ideal for Modified or Work Trucks
The OEM backup camera’s view is commonly obscured for owners who regularly remove their tailgates, install utility beds, or transport long items that require the tailgate to be down.
Without having to move or alter the original system, adding a third brake light camera restores and enhances visibility.
It’s the ideal improvement for:
- Commercial and fleet trucks
- Farm and construction trucks
- RV configurations and towing
- Off-road and overland construction
The Bottom Line
Although the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra models from 2019 to 2026 have good rear cameras, a third brake light camera adds even more visibility, security, and versatility.
Backing up is very critical to have vision behind you for safety reasons. Being able to see more of your truck’s surroundings, including the trailer you tow, the goods you carry, and the blind spots you can’t ignore is essential.
One of the best additions you can make to your contemporary GM vehicle is a third brake light camera, which offers HD clarity and seamless factory connection
