Component Description

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

PAM

The PAM is the controlling module for the active park assist system, providing the steering angle commands and driver input requests. The PAM is capable of setting and storing Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) for the active park assist sensors and active park assist switch circuits when a concern exists.

Active Park Assist Sensors

The active park assist sensors are narrow beam ultrasonic sensors. The sensors continuously send out ultrasonic signals to detect an available parking space and communicate the information back to the PAM. The sensors are active when the vehicle is moving regardless of whether the operator has pressed the active park assist switch. Only objects that reflect a sufficient amount of sound waves are detected by the active park assist sensors. The surface properties, size and composition of an object can affect the ability of the sensors to detect the object. Incorrect sensor alignment, dirt covered sensors, heavy rain and snow can cause objects not to be recognized. Since ambient temperature affects the speed of sound, the PAM temperature compensates the sensor inputs.

Active Park Assist Switch

The active park assist switch is a normally open, momentary contact switch that provides a ground to the PAM when pressed which enables and disables the active park assist system.