Parking sensor detection and limitations

The ultrasonic parking sensors allow the car to detect objects and their distance from the car. They operate at relatively close range during slow and tight manoeuvring, such as when parking.

Ultrasonic sensors use sound waves to detect obstacles close to the car. They work by sending out ultrasound pulses that can bounce back to the sensor when they encounter an object or barrier. This allows the car to identify the distance to obstacles in the direction of detection.

Information from these sensors is only available at low speeds. They provide distance information when the parking view is shown in the display.

 Important

Use responsibly

Ultrasonic parking sensors and features that rely on them are supplements to safe driving practices. They do not reduce or replace the need for the driver to stay aware of the car's surroundings and focused on driving safely.

Detection range

Ultrasonic sensors are typically located relatively low down on the bumper.
  • Obstacles whose supports are outside of the detection zone can go undetected. Such obstacles include objects that are suspended from above or objects that extend far away from their ground support, such as certain barriers and gates.

Blocked sensors

Ultrasonic sensors can get blocked, either reducing distance and obstacle detection or making it unavailable. To avoid blocked sensors or better understand when they may be unavailable, consider the following:
  • If a sensor is blocked, certain features may become less effective or respond incorrectly.
  • Heavy rain or snowfall can lead to unreliable detection and features relying on the ultrasonic sensors becoming unavailable.
  • If the car detects that a sensor is blocked, it may disable certain features.
  • Do not place or mount anything in front of or close to the car's sensors. This includes stickers, car body foil and adhesive tape.
  • Bodywork damage where the sensors are located can affect their performance. Contact a workshop for repairs if there is any damage in the sensor areas.1
  • Make sure that any mounted accessories, extra equipment or externally-stowed cargo don't block the sensors.
  • Trailers, bike racks or other towbar-mounted equipment can block sensors, making detection and certain features unavailable.
  • Ultrasonic sensors are sensitive to buildup of dirt, ice or snow in front of them. This can reduce their ability to detect objects. Parking sensor obstruction cannot always be identified by the car. In situations where it is detected, the car communicates this via notifications in the display. However, it is still recommended to regularly inspect the sensor locations and make sure the areas around them are clean and free of obstructions.

 Warning

Clean regularly

Camera, sensor and radar locations on the car must be cleaned on a regular basis and kept free from labels, objects, dirt and other kinds of potential obstructions. Otherwise, car functions may respond incorrectly or become less responsive or deactivated.

  1. 1 Volvo recommends an authorised Volvo workshop for all servicing and repairs.