Rear Parking Sensors

The Rear Parking Sensors are a safety feature available on Ford trucks and SUVs at Schicker Ford in St. Louis. They are designed to assist drivers while backing up, providing audible alerts to certain objects close to the rear of the vehicle. The system helps drivers in tight parking situations, enabling them to make better judgments and reducing the risk of collisions with objects at low speeds.

Key features and functionalities of the Rear Parking Sensors include:

• Audible Alerts: When the vehicle is shifted into Reverse (R) and the driver begins to back up, the Rear Parking Sensors automatically activate. Rear bumper-mounted sensors transmit signals to detect objects in the vehicle's path. If an object is detected within approximately six feet, the system emits an audible warning tone (beeping) to alert the driver.
• Distance Calculation: The system rapidly calculates the distance between the vehicle and the detected object based on the time it took for the signals to travel from the sensors to the object and back.
• Progressive Warning: As the vehicle gets closer to the detected object, the warning beeps increase in frequency. This progressive warning helps the driver gauge the distance to the object accurately.
• Continuous Tone: When the vehicle is within approximately 10 inches from the object, the warning beeps become a continuous tone, signaling that the vehicle is very close to the object.
• Debris Awareness: If the Rear Parking Sensors are not operating correctly, the driver should check the rear sensors for debris, such as snow or mud, that might be obstructing their functionality. Keeping the sensors clean is essential for accurate detection.
• Automatic Deactivation: The Rear Parking Sensors automatically turn off when the vehicle is shifted into Park (P) or Neutral (N). Additionally, drivers have the option to disable the system through the Information Display if desired.
• Coexistence with Front Parking Sensors: In vehicles equipped with both Front and Rear Parking Sensors, the Front Parking Sensors will remain active even when the vehicle is in Reverse (R). This feature is especially helpful since the front bumper may swing when parallel parking.

The Rear Parking Sensors provide valuable assistance to drivers during parking and reversing, helping them avoid collisions with obstacles that may not be visible through the rearview mirror or the rearview camera. However, it's important for drivers to remain attentive and aware of their surroundings at all times, as the system may not detect all objects and does not replace careful driving and situational awareness.