BMW 5 Series: Limits of the system

Due to the physical limits during the ultrasonic measurement, obstructions may not be detected by the Park Distance Control system. Several examples of this are shown below:

• If the objects are thin or wedge-shaped.
• When the objects are low.
• When objects that, due to their shape, have corners and sharp edges.
• With snow.
• If the objects have a porous surface.

A warning may also be displayed although there is no obstruction in the detection range. This may be the case in the following situations:

• When it is raining heavily.
• If the sensors are heavily soiled or iced over.
• If the sensors are covered with snow.
• If the street surface is rough.
• If there are bumps, e.g. speed bumps.
• In large right-angled buildings with smooth walls, e.g. underground car parks.
• Due to heavy exhaust gas fumes.
• Due to other ultrasound sources.

To ensure the ultrasonic sensors remain fully operational, they must be kept clean and free of ice.

When cleaning the sensors using a high pressure cleaner, avoid direct and sustained contact with a high-pressure water jet. Furthermore, when using high pressure cleaners, a distance of at least 1 ft (30 cm) from the sensors must be maintained.

The Park Distance Control cannot replace the driver's personal judgement of the traffic situation. Also check the traffic situation around the vehicle by looking around, otherwise there may be a risk of an accident as a result of road users or objects which lie outside the detection range of the Park Distance Control. Loud sound sources outside and inside the vehicle could drown out the PDC signal.

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