Troubleshooting Your Reverse Parking Sensors

If your vehicle has reverse parking sensors that are not performing the way they should, there are several different reasons why they can't be used to help you avoid obstructions when backing up your vehicle. Some problems are simple to troubleshoot and correct, while others can be more challenging to track down and remedy. This article will provide you with useful information you can use to find the problem with the reverse parking sensors in your vehicle and make corrections as needed.

Problems Due to Faulty Installation

Many problems with reverse parking sensors are not caused by defective parts or a malfunctioning system. No, most problems with reverse parking sensors are due to faulty or improper installation. Many installation problems are related to the incorrect placement of the sensors.

For example, if you put the vehicle in reverse and the sensors cause the system to begin beeping continuously — even when there is no obstruction behind the vehicle, this is usually an indication that the sensors are positioned and installed incorrectly. In this case, the sensors are probably installed too close to the ground. Most reverse parking sensors need to be placed about 18 to 24 inches above the gound in order to work properly.

When the sensors are too close to the ground, they pick up the ground surface and cause the monitor to beep or buzz as if there were something behind the vehicle. To correct the problem, just choose another location a few inches higher on the rear of the car.

Aftermarket Sensors and Luxury Cars

Although many luxury cars come with built-in reverse parking sensors, it is an upgrade or option on many cars. That means there are many luxury cars that are sold without the option. Many owners of these types of vehicles then go on to have reverse parking sensors installed in their luxury vehicles, only to experience strange problems with intermittent beeping.

If you purchased a nicer car and then had the sensors installed, you may be experiencing a problem where the reverse parking sensors cause the monitor to beep about every 30 seconds or so — even if you are driving forward and not in reverse. This is usually caused by the car's central computer processor testing the continuity of the brake lights or turn signals while the car is running. This will cause a small electrical current to be passed to the sensor (because they are usually wired to the brake or turn signal light's power source).

To correct this problem you will need to purcase a Single By-Pass Circuit Relay for your vehicle and have it installed. This will prevent the odd electrical current from being passed to the sensor, and the system won't beep when the car is not in reverse.

Now you're all set to troubleshoot your reverse parking sensors. Safe driving!