Common ADAS Sensor Issues and When to Get Them Checked
Common ADAS Sensor Issues and When to Get Them Checked
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are critical safety technologies in modern vehicles. These sophisticated sensor networks help prevent accidents, but they require careful maintenance and calibration to function effectively.
Understanding ADAS Sensors
ADAS relies on four sensor types:
Radar sensors
These sensors are used for vehicles to detect objects like cars, people, and obstacles surrounding the vehicle by emitting radio waves and measuring the time it takes for those waves to bounce back. This provides information about the distance and relative speed of the detected obstacles.
Radar sensors have the advantage compared to other systems in bad weather and low light situations; especially for moving objects.
Camera Systems
Cameras function much like radar systems in detecting objects surrounding a vehicle, but they really excel by providing high-resolution information in color and differentiating smaller stationary objects. This makes them very good for identifying traffic signs and lane markings. However, they struggle in poor lighting, bad weather, and measuring distance accurately.
Ultrasonic sensors
Ultrasonic sensors are used primarily for proximity detection at short distances. They utilize high-frequency sound waves to measure the distance of objects from your vehicle. They are most effective at short distances and are used primarily for parking sensors. Multiple sensors are typically located in the front and rear bumpers to provide a full view as the sensors have a relatively narrow focus.
LiDAR Sensors
LiDAR sensors utilize laser pulses to detect and measure the distance of surrounding objects. They provide a detailed 3D map of the environment around your car. LiDAR sensors may provide the best spatial map for your vehicle’s ADAS system, but they have trouble operating in bad weather and poor light conditions (too much or too little). LiDAR is also limited by the range which it is effective.
LiDAR sensors are complex and utilize moving parts that add a lot of initial expense to an ADAS system and subsequent repairs that may be needed.
Each system plays a unique role in monitoring your vehicle’s environment and preventing potential collisions. Leveraging the strength of each sensor allows your vehicle to make informed decisions in different situations.
Warning Signs of ADAS Sensor Problems
There are several warning signs that you have an ADAS sensor problem.
- Dashboard warning lights
- Inconsistent performance
- Unexpected or missed alerts
- Visual detection errors
- Inoperative system
If you are experiencing abnormal operation of any of your driver assistance systems such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Keep Assist (LCA), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) or Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) then you may have a malfunction in the sensor, wiring, processor or calibration of the system.
Oregon’s Unique Challenges
Oregon’s diverse driving conditions can significantly impact sensor performance:
- Mountain terrain creates complex navigation scenarios
- Coastal regions produce salt and moisture exposure
- High frequency of rain and fog impact sensor visibility and accuracy
- Seasonal weather variations challenge sensor accuracy
- Dirt roads and forest routes increase debris interference
Most Common ADAS Sensor Issues
- Misalignment from Minor Accidents – Even minor impacts can completely disrupt sensor calibration, compromising safety systems.
- Miscalibration or No Calibration After Repairs – If you have had vehicle repairs and experience issues with any of your driver assistance systems it may be due to an issue with the calibration of the systems. Many vehicle repairs unrelated to these safety systems require a calibration. If the calibration was not complete then you will either have a poorly operating or non-functioning system.
- Contamination – Rain, snow, dirt, road grime, and debris can block sensor functionality, reducing system effectiveness. Beyond obstructing the view of the sensors there is also the possibility that moisture or dirt can find itself into the sensor or wiring and damage the component.
- Physical Damage Cracks – Chips, cracks or other damage can impair sensor performance.
- Electronic System Errors – Internal computer system faults can cause system failure
If any of these sensor or system issues are ignored you can have reduced vehicle safety such as compromised collision avoidance, and even have the potential for increased legal and insurance liabilities.
ADAS Services at Sun Automotive
The complexity of modern ADAS requires specialized training and tools to properly diagnose, repair and calibrate. Fortunately, Sun Automotive is here to help you resolve any issues that you may have. Our stores are equipped with the best equipment and our technicians have undergone extensive training to be ready for any ADAS issues that you may have.
Sun Automotive strongly believes in ensuring that our customer’s safety comes first and we have made the investment in our people and equipment to ensure that we can keep you safe. With locations in Eugene, Springfield, and Junction City Oregon, Sun Automotive is conveniently located to help you with all of your ADAS issues. Give us a call or schedule an appointment online today!