Description And Operation: Operation

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2020 Jeep Renegade. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

The BSM Radio Detection And Ranging (RADAR) smart sensors/modules (Left Blind Spot Sensor/LBSS and Right Blind Spot Sensor/RBSS) are each controlled by their on-board microcontroller and control circuitry (module). When the microcontroller recognizes that the appropriate conditions exist, it will energize the sensor to generate 25 Gigahertz radar pulses through the blind spot zone on that side of the vehicle. The sensor receives and filters the radar signals being returned from any objects detected within the zone, then transmits the appropriate data identifying the position and speed of identified objects to the microcontroller.

The microcontroller analyzes the sensor data to determine whether any detected objects should be reported. When it is determined that an object should be reported, the microcontroller sends electronic request messages over the Controller Area Network (CAN) data bus to the Body Control Module (BCM) and the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) to generate chime tones as an audible alert. The Driver Door Module (DDM) or Passenger Door Module (PDM) then controls its respective left or right BSM display directly through a hardwired output. The microcontroller of the LBSS or RBSS also sends electronic messages to the Radio Receiver Module (RRM) to mute any current output through the sound system speakers.

Each of the two BSM smart sensors/modules is independent and communicates on the CAN data bus. The sensor/module performs a bulb test by requesting illumination of the icon in its respective right or left blind spot display for a few seconds each time the status of the ignition transitions to ON. Each sensor microcontroller also continually monitors the BSM system and the sensor/module circuits and will store a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) for any fault that is detected.

The hardwired circuits of the smart sensors/modules may be diagnosed using conventional diagnostic tools and procedures. Refer to the appropriate wiring information. However, conventional diagnostic methods will not prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the smart sensors/modules or the electronic controls and communication between other modules and devices that provide some features of the BSM system. The most reliable, efficient and accurate means to diagnose the smart sensors/modules or the electronic controls and communication related to LBSS or RBSS operation requires the use of a diagnostic scan tool. Refer to DIAGNOSTIC CODE INDEX, LBSS or DIAGNOSTIC CODE INDEX, RBSS .