Hello everyone,
My 2017 Toyota Tacoma tailgate was stolen a few weeks ago, so I sourced a replacement from a salvage yard. The replacement tailgate is from a newer model year.
Unfortunately, my original tailgate harness was cut during the theft, and the salvage tailgate came with a similarly cut harness. As a result, I had to work with partial wiring on both ends.
Initially, I attempted to connect the newer model camera, but the display only showed a distorted/noise image (“jibberish”). After researching, I found that newer Tacoma cameras may operate on a 12V system, which is not compatible with the factory head unit in my 2017 (which supplies approximately 6V).
To address this, I purchased an OEM camera (part number 86790-04030), which is designed for the 6V system used in my truck. However, since I am still missing part of the original harness, I am currently adapting the wiring using the connector from the newer (12V) setup.
After installing the correct camera, I attempted multiple wiring configurations, but I am still getting the same distorted image.
At this point, I suspect that the issue may be related to differences in pin configuration (pinout) between the two camera systems, rather than just voltage compatibility.
Has anyone encountered a similar situation or successfully adapted a newer tailgate harness/camera to a 2017 Tacoma? Any insight on correct pin mapping or compatibility would be greatly appreciated.