Sensor Warning

[steelersmb]

Ever since I have had my truck, about 2+ year, I have received these sensor warnings when slowing down at a stop sign or red light. The odd thing is that it only seems to happen when the weather gets cold.

When slowing down at a stop sign or red light, I get a warning tone like I'm about to hit something, the front camera comes on and then I get a "Front Parking Sensor is not available. Sensor blocked. See Manual" error on the dash. There is nothing in front of me, or if I am stopped at a red light and there is a car in front and I slowly creep forward, this happens.

I have had my truck in several times, and they keep saying the same thing. They tell me they have taken apart everything and can't duplicate the issue even though I have pictures and videos of this happening all the time.

Has anyone experienced anything like this?

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[Heliian]

when the weather gets cold.

Salt, ice, snow, dirt messes up the sensors. I just live with it and turn the sensors off when they alarm like that. When the alert screen pops up on the center display you can toggle them off.

 

[steelersmb]

I'm in Atlanta, we didn't deal with all that here. Just colder weather.

 

[chriserx]

I'm unsure which air dam you have check it and see if it's loose or broken, I had a similar issue after hitting a raccoon and resolved when it fell off. I assume a tech would've noticed it's loose but still worth checking yourself.

 

[Lpotter86]

I get the same thing. Tried to explain to the dealer last time I was in for another issue. They didn’t check into it at all. Always the same sensor. Always when cold or warm and raining.
There was a CSP for the issue I tried to tell them about but they didn’t check into that either.
The picture is of me having just pulled out of the garage. Nothing physically on the sensor. Truck was clean.

 

[steelersmb]

That's the same issue as me except mine is the driver side front sensor.

 

[Nolander]

Same here especially after car wash or sometimes seemingly for no reason at all. It usually resolves itself.

 

[gbuydos]

Mine does it all the time. Annoying. It clears up and then doesn't happen for a while. Mostly in wintertime, so I'm guessing salt, ice, grime, snow, etc.

 

[chl]

Seems like most of the reports are saying it happens when it's "cold" and some mention "rain" or a car wash, and the OP mentioned a stop sign or red light.

So...

It seems that the sensor uses ultrasound, radar and imaging (according to a search) ...

Moisture (condensate, ice crystals, rain drops) may be refracting (bending) and reflecting sound, light and/or radar signals near the proximity sensor which sets it off, and the reflected sound/light/radar waves from a stop sign or red light may trigger it as well...

Also, some traffic lights/signals use ultrasound or radar to detect the presence of vehicles, which could trigger the sensor on the truck.

Also red light and stop sign running cameras use ultrasound or radar to detect a vehicle and trigger the camera, which could trigger the sensor on the truck.

Just my guesses...

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FORD SAYS: https://www.camerasource.com/blogs/industry-news/where-is-the-front-collision-sensor-on-a-ford-f150

Effects of Weather on Sensor Performance

Weather conditions, particularly extreme ones, have a direct effect on collision sensors. Rain and fog can lead to reduced visibility, which may impact sensors like cameras that require a clear view of their surroundings. Additionally, conditions such as ice and snow can physically cover sensors, potentially inhibiting their performance.

Temperature fluctuations can affect the electronic components within sensors. Cold temperatures might slow down the circuit functioning, while high temperatures could lead to overheating. Maintaining a routine check, especially before extreme weather, ensures the sensors remain functional.

Handling Obstructions and Interferences

Collision sensors can often be hampered by physical obstructions and interferences, such as dirt, debris, or physical damage. These can block visual or electromagnetic signals, leading to inaccurate readings. For example, snow building up on the vehicle's bumper could cover the sensor, making it unable to detect objects in its path.

Various interferences, such as metallic objects or electronic devices, can also impact sensor accuracy. It's crucial for drivers to regularly inspect and clean sensor areas and remove physical obstructions. If persistent disturbances arise, consulting a professional for a diagnostic can help resolve performance issues.

 

[chriserx]

If it were mine and out of warranty, I'd do the following fallthrough.

1) Remove the sensor, place over a dehumidifier for a day or bake in an electric oven at less than 150F for a couple hours, replace and check.

2) If it worked and later came back after a rain, I'd repeat the process and add sealant around it.

3) I'd replace the sensor.

 

[DavidS]

While I agree that intermittent sensor warnings seem to happen most the morning after a car wash, I also get the feeling that it might also happen when you start up and drive away quickly, especially from an enclosed space or adjacent an obstruction. It seems to me in this case, the sensors might not have time to properly calibrate prior to driving.

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