Why its important to look after your vehicle's sensors
Published 12 September 2024
Last updated 12 September 2024
In this blog we ask: “What do you know about the advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) fitted to your car?” Many people don’t know what ADAS are or how to maintain them - which could make them less effective.
What is ADAS?
ADAS technology is designed to help drivers avoid collisions. The most common ADAS include parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, collision-avoidance systems and lane-change assistance.
Looking after ADAS sensors
A recent UK survey by JLR found that 41% of respondents do not know what their ADAS systems do or where the sensors are located on their vehicles. Respondents also said they did not know that these sensors need to be kept clean for their ADAS to work properly.
The survey also showed that 36% of respondents experienced faulty ADAS sensors because they were dirty. 20% of the people surveyed have no plans to clean their vehicle more often despite knowing it will increase the effectiveness of the ADAS fitted to their vehicle.
A JLR spokesperson said, ‘’Road safety in Europe has increased significantly in the last decade thanks in part to technological improvements, such as mandatory fitting of ADAS to new cars. However, it’s important that drivers are aware about the systems fitted to their cars and how to operate and maintain them so that they work most effectively. Owners should ensure they understand how their vehicle’s ADAS works and prioritise keeping the sensors clean.’’
Protecting road users
DVSA has updated The Official DVSA Guide to Driving – the essential skills to include information on ADAS. The new edition of The Official DVSA Guide to Better Driving also includes an extensive section on vehicle technology and safety.
It’s important that drivers with ADAS make sure they:
- Read their vehicle manual and understand how the ADAS features work
- Understand the limitations of ADAS
- Keep sensors clean by regularly washing the vehicle.
The role of the driver
As vehicles develop, drivers will have more help with driving than ever. However, in-vehicle technology should not be used as a substitute for driving safely and responsibly. Drivers must always maintain control and be aware of the road and traffic situation regardless of the assistive features in their vehicles.