Reverse sensing system (RSS) - optional proximity sensor system, optionally installed on vehicles to facilitate parking maneuvers. It warns the driver about approaching an obstacle in the blind spot of the car. Ford models equipped with RSS: F150, Fusion, Escape, Edge, Explorer, Fiesta, F250, F350, Transit and others.

This system incorporates four different backup sensors in the rear bumper. A separate back-up camera is typically included and is mounted on the vehicle’s tailgate. The camera works with the reverse sensing system to show the driver a view of their rear via an LCD screen in the cabin’s center console.

Using the LCD screen, any driver can easily see directly behind them while in reverse. This is especially useful in larger vehicles, such as an SUV, where blind spots are more prevalent. The camera can easily be adapted to work with a towed trailer, as well.

The reverse sensors work by emitting audible beeps when it detects that something is behind you. These beeps will increase from a slow beep to a faster beep as you get closer to the object. If the vehicle continues to move toward the object, the system will emit one long, connected tone.

This system is designed to help you become more cautious and safe while backing up. You will also be able to avoid expensive car damage or accidents, saving you both time and money. And if you ever want to turn the system off, it’s as simple as the press of a button.

The reverse sensing system (RSS) sounds a tone to warn the driver of obstacles near the rear bumper when R (Reverse) is selected and the vehicle is moving at speeds less than 3 mph (5 km/h). The system is not effective at speeds above 3 mph (5 km/h) and may not detect certain angular or moving objects.

WARNING: To help avoid personal injury, please read and understand the limitations of the reverse sensing system as contained in this section. Reverse sensing is only an aid for some (generally large and fixed) objects when moving in reverse on a flat surface at “parking speeds”. Inclement weather may also affect the function of the RSS; this may include reduced performance or a false activation.

WARNING: To help avoid personal injury, always use caution when in reverse and when using the RSS.

WARNING: This system is not designed to prevent contact with small or moving objects. The system is designed to provide a warning to assist the driver in detecting large stationary objects to avoid damaging the vehicle. The system may not detect smaller objects, particularly those close to the ground.

WARNING: Certain add-on devices such as large trailer hitches, bike or surfboard racks and any device that may block the normal detection zone of the RSS system may create false beeps.

The RSS detects obstacles up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) from the rear bumper with a decreased coverage area at the outer corners of the bumper, (refer to the figures for approximate zone coverage areas).

As you move closer to the obstacle, the rate of the tone increases. When the obstacle is less than 10 inches (25.0 cm) away, the tone will sound continuously. If the RSS detects a stationary or receding object further than 10 inches (25.0 cm) from the side of the vehicle, the tone will sound for only three seconds. Once the system detects an object approaching, the tone will sound again.

While receiving a warning the radio volume will be reduced to a predetermined level. After the warning goes away, the radio will return to the previous value. The RSS automatically turns on when the gearshift lever is placed in R (Reverse) and the ignition is on. A control in the message center allows the driver to disable the system, refer to Message center in the Instrument Cluster chapter for more information.

Note: If the system cannot be turned off, refer to MyKey in the Locks and Security chapter for more information.

Keep the RSS sensors (located on the rear bumper/fascia) free from snow, ice and large accumulations of dirt (do not clean the sensors with sharp objects). If the sensors are covered, it will affect the accuracy of the RSS.

If your vehicle sustains damage to the rear bumper/fascia, leaving it misaligned or bent, the sensing zone may be altered causing inaccurate measurement of obstacles or false alarms.

Reverse sensing system problems:

• 1. Control module malfunction
• 2. Indication Devices: Monitor and sound notification system
• 3. Backup sensor not working

RSS malfunctions are often associated with the failure of its elements. Reverse sensing system consists of several important components.

Control module malfunction

Control module is main part, which is responsible for the operation of the entire system. Infrequently enough this particular element fails. How to check the operation of the electronic control unit? You must first disconnect it. Then, the ohmmeter terminals should be attached to the terminals. If the ohmmeter does not show anything, then the cause of the malfunction lies precisely in the electronic control unit. If you are not an electrician and do not have sufficient experience working with such mechanisms, it is better not to do the repair of parking sensors yourself. Here it is worth contacting specialists.

Improper control of the control unit can also be one of the reasons why the parking radar does not work. If the control unit is configured for greater sensitivity, the parking radar will respond even to non-existent obstacles. Or the reverse situation, he does not notice the existing obstacles. This may indicate too low sensitivity. In both cases, it is necessary to reconfigure the parking radar.

Indication Devices: Monitor and sound notification system

Indication devices: monitor (data on the presence of obstacles and distance to them are transmitted to it) and an audible warning system (it emits warning signals). These elements fail most often, since they work in the most sparing conditions, inside the car.

Backup sensor not working

Sensors are transmission devices that detect the presence of obstacles nearby. In a car there can be from 2, 4, 6 or even 8. Most often they are 4 or 6. If 4, then they are all installed on the rear bumper. If 6 is installed, then 4 of them are on the rear, and 2 on the front bumper. The latter option allows you to control not only the space behind the car, but also in front. The principle of operation of the transmission device is very simple. It emits ultrasonic signals that, when hit by an obstacle, come back. The system reads the round-trip time of the signal, thus calculating the distance to the obstacle.

Sensors fail most often, because they are most exposed to the external environment. They are installed on the bumper of the car, and accordingly, dirt, snow or water can get on them.

How to determine if the parking sensors are not working? Simple enough. Start the car and touch the sensor with your finger. Serviceable always vibrates slightly, and if it is touched, it should emit a crack. If this was not found, then the reason is in it.

Sometimes the sensors start to work for no reason, signaling the presence of non-existent obstacles - the cause of the malfunction may be due to contamination, sticky sensors. They should be cleaned of dirt and snow, if there is moisture, then remove it.

If Reverse sensing system sensors do not work after washing or in severe frost, then the problem may also be in the wiring, more precisely, in the connections to which moisture gets. The usual drying of sensors and wiring connections will also help here.