Component Description

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2015 Ford F-150. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Parking Aid Sensors

The parking aid sensors are wide beam ultrasonic sensors. The sensors continuously send out ultrasonic signals to detect objects and communicate the information back to the PAM. The PAM supplies the ultrasonic sensors with voltage and ground from a common source, and monitors the signal return circuit from each sensor.

Only objects that reflect a sufficient amount of sound waves are detected by the parking aid sensors. The surface properties, size and composition of an object affect the ability of the parking aid system to detect the object.

Other things which affect sensor operation are:

Incorrect sensor alignment or installation
Dirt or ice covered sensors
Heavy rain, or snow

PAM

The PAM calculates and reports (via audio system tones) the distance between the rear bumper of the vehicle and an object. The PAM is integral to the BCM and requires PMI when replaced. The PAM communicates as a separate node on the HS-CAN1.