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Standard reversing cameras now the rule, but aftermarket no match for integrated

Be sure to find out if the optional camera you're paying for is the genuine article.

If you're in the market for a new car and it doesn't have a rear-view camera as standard, you'd be right to start asking questions — or considering another model.

Rear cameras are now standard on $14,990 hatchbacks such as the Honda Jazz and the $15,990 Toyota Yaris.

They're even a basic feature on the Toyota Corolla and recently revised Hyundai i30 small cars, which start at $19,990.

They are increasingly as common as Bluetooth and buyers shouldn't settle for less.

Unfortunately, some cars still lack them because they are nearing the end of their model cycle and there wasn't the foresight to make the technology available when the car was released five or so years ago.

But Ford has no excuse with the new model it released this week.

We were disappointed to discover the new Ranger, one of the most hi-tech utes in the world (with optional safety features that other utes don't have such as lane-keeping assistance and radar cruise control) didn't get one of the basics right.

Only one of the 37 models in the Ford Ranger line-up has a rear camera as standard.

In the meantime, be aware dealers across all brands may try to sell you a non-genuine rear camera if the car you're buying doesn't have one as standard.

In most cases "aftermarket" cameras are not integrated into the rest of the car's systems, and customarily only have a 12-month warranty.

If it squeaks and rattles or malfunctions, it's not the car company's fault. It's whoever supplied and/or fitted the non-genuine part.

So be sure to find out if the optional camera you're paying for is the genuine article, or a non-genuine accessory.