Radar detection and limitations

Radars use radio waves to collect information about the car's surroundings. They can identify the distance to objects and certain aspects of their movement. It's important not to block the radars.

There are several radars aimed in different directions to collect information about the car's surroundings. This information is primarily used by driver support features in the car. Radio waves are continuously sent out and bounce back if they encounter an object in their path. As the waves return, the car can calculate the position and motion of the object, for example.

Radars are unaffected by the light conditions, working equally well on a sunny day as in complete darkness.

 Important

Use responsibly

Radars 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 attentive and focused on driving safely.

Detection zone and field of view

Each radar in the car has its own detection zone. The zone is limited by the radar's field of view and range.

Objects in the field of view block what's behind them. The closer something is to the radar, the more it blocks the radar's field of view.
  • If a radar is blocked, certain features may become less effective or respond incorrectly.
  • If the car detects that a radar is blocked, it may disable certain features.
  • Do not place or mount anything in front of or close to the car's radars. This includes stickers, car body foil and adhesive tape.
  • Paintwork damage in front of a radar can affect its performance. Contact a service point for repairs if there is any damage close to the radars.1
  • Make sure that any mounted accessories, extra equipment or externally-stowed cargo don't block the car's radars.
  • Trailers, bike racks or other towbar-mounted equipment can block the radar, making it and certain features unavailable.
  • Radars are sensitive to buildups of dirt, ice or snow in front of them. This affects the radio waves and can reduce the radar's ability to detect objects. Radar obstruction cannot always be identified by the car. In situations where it is detected, the car communicates this via notifications in the displays. However, it is still recommended to regularly inspect the radars and make sure the areas around them are clean and free of obstructions.

 Warning

Clean regularly

Camera, sensor, lidar 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.

Other conditions and limitations

Other radar sources can cause interference and reduce the effectiveness of your car's radars.

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