Photo: The News Wheel
Vehicle safety continues to evolve and become more accessible to the average driver. What used to be featured only on only high-end models has become widely available on economy-class cars. Many cars now feature proximity alert, a valuable maneuvering and safety tool that beeps when your vehicle is close to a nearby object so you don’t collide with it.
If your car has a proximity alert feature and it’s beeping like crazy when nothing is there, here’s what you should do.
Used Car FAQ: Answers to the questions you’re wondering
How to stop your car’s proximity alert when it keeps beeping
First and foremost, check the vehicle’s surroundings to make sure nothing is actually around. Put the car in park and walk a lap around it to make sure there isn’t anything nearby you’re not seeing in your side mirrors or backup camera. If you don’t see anything, the sensors may be obstructed.
Photo: The News Wheel
Proximity alert relies on sensors that are strategically placed around the body. The location of these sensors varies by auto manufacturer: Some are positioned on the grille, some are in the windshield, and others are on the panels — like the bumpers or fenders. Check your car’s owner’s manual to see where the sensors are positioned.
Once you locate these spots, take a clean, damp rag and wipe off the sensors. Many times, this will solve your problem: The sensor has been obstructed with dirt or snow and needs to be wiped clean.
If the alert is still beeping, there may be an electric issue in the system. Take your car to a dealership that’s familiar with your car’s make and have them inspect it. For the time being, see if you can turn the function off through the system settings.
If all else fails, you can assume that your car spotted a ghost that you couldn’t see with the naked eye.
What Determines Your Credit Score? What it means and how to improve it before your next car purchase
The News Wheel is a digital auto magazine providing readers with a fresh perspective on the latest car news. We’re located in the heart of America (Dayton, Ohio) and our goal is to deliver an entertaining and informative perspective on what’s trending in the automotive world. See more articles from The News Wheel.
