ADAS Sensor Calibration Lost,
AEB (Automatic Emergency Braking) Fault,
Forward Collision Warning Malfunction,
Camera/Radar Obstruction,
Safety System Logic Error,
Diagnostic Overview
The System: Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) rely on a combination of Long-Range Radar (usually in the front bumper) and High-Resolution Cameras (behind the rearview mirror). These systems "fuse" data to determine the distance and speed of objects ahead.
The Problem: False warnings (ghost braking) occur when the system misinterprets environmental data. A total failure usually triggers a dashboard warning like "Front Safety System Unavailable" and disables cruise control.
Common Failure Points
Physical Obstruction: This is the #1 cause of failures. Dirt, mud, ice, or even a build-up of dead bugs on the radar sensor (the plastic "plate" in the grille) or the windshield area in front of the camera will blind the system.
Windshield Replacement: If the windshield was replaced and the camera was not re-calibrated, the system may "see" the road at a slight angle, leading to false braking triggers.
Misaligned Radar: A minor "fender bender" that doesn't even leave a scratch can bend the radar bracket by just $2$ or $3$ degrees. This causes the radar to "look" into the adjacent lane or at overhead signs.
Environmental Factors: Heavy rain, thick fog, or driving directly into a low-setting sun (glare) can temporarily overwhelm the camera's ability to distinguish objects.
Troubleshooting Steps
The "Clean-First" Method: Thoroughly wash the front grille area and the top-center of the windshield. Many "failures" are simply solved with a microfiber cloth.
Check for Window Tint/Film: Aftermarket window tints or "eyebrow" strips that cover the camera's field of vision will cause immediate system errors.
Inspect the Grille: Ensure the front emblem or radar cover is not cracked. Even a small crack can allow moisture to build up inside, refracting the radar waves.
Code Scan: Use a tool that can access the ADAS or IPMA (Image Processing Module A). These modules store specific "Inhibit" codes that explain exactly why the system shut down (e.g., "Camera Temperature Too High").
Critical Safety Note
Warning: If your vehicle is experiencing "Ghost Braking" (sudden braking with no obstacles present), it is a high-priority safety issue. Most manufacturers have specific software patches or "Technical Service Bulletins" (TSBs) to adjust the sensitivity of the collision avoidance logic.
Would you like me to check if there are any active recalls or software updates for your vehicle's safety system?
How to Calibrate and Troubleshoot ADAS Systems
This video explains how technicians use "target boards" to re-align cameras and radars and how to diagnose sensor data drift that causes false collision warnings.
