Parking Assist System - Erroneous Activation

Date: September 17, 2008

Order No.: P-B-54.65/86a

Supersedes: P-B-54.65/86 dated April 13, 2003

Group: 54

Revision Date Purpose

a 9/17/08 Applicable Models Updated / Note Added (cause and remedy)

- 4/13/03 Initial issue

SUBJECT:
All Models Equipped with Parktronic (SA Code 220)

Erroneous Parktronic Activation

Parktronic, the optional vehicle parking assist system, can be erroneously activated with or without warning tones by the following conditions as noted below.

Note:
The causes mentioned can lead to complaints that may be unduplicatable at the workshop. The workshop technician should thoroughly inspect the Parktronic sensors for interferance, cleanliness, and proper orientation.

1) Accessory license plate frames installed on the front bumper.

2) Incorrect front license plate orientation.

3) Other detachable accessories that are located within range of the Parktronic sensors.

4) Decreased vehicle ride height, resulting in an echo from the ground.

5) Snow, slush, hail, and sleet.

6) Heavy rain

7) A gush of water, running down the vehicle's hood over the Parktronic sensors when the vehicle is braking.

8) Sensors heavily soiled.

9) Extraneous ultrasonic sources such as air brakes, jackhammer, etc.

10) In ground electrical induction loops, located at traffic lights or in basement garages.

11) Waste heat, from excessively heated engines (exhaust), forms in front of the vehicle when stopped.

Note:
Replacing sensors or control modules will not resolve the false activation. The sensitivity of the Parktronic system is a result of its design, and is required for accurate operation. Please inform the customers accordingly. Additionally, present to the customer the information contained within the vehicle's operating instructions, concerning Parktronic operation.








Note:
In cases where the sensors have been replaced/repainted previously, incorrect painting (Figure 1, incorrect) of the sensor may lead to erroneous readings. Painting the entire front of the sensor changes its vibration characteristics. These altered vibration characteristics may lead to erroneous readings and random triggering of the system. To remedy, paint the sensors in the provided box (Figure 2). If the box is not available, mask off the sensor accordingly.