Mercedes Radar Sensor Problems & Solutions

Mercedes-Benz radar system may malfunction and set errors in various Mercedes modules, including Parktronic System, Collision Prevention Assist Plus and Distronic Plus, autonomous driving, Active Brake Assist Cross Traffic, etc.

The cameras and sensors could be defective, but often such problems are because sensors are covered with dirt, ice, or snow.

Suppose you are experiencing intermittent malfunctions (such as Collision Prevention Assist Plus Inoperative Error, Assist Graphis, Attention Asst inoperative, etc.). In that case, it would be best to first clean the Mercedes radar sensors and cameras. This guide will show you where various Mercedes sensors and cameras are located.

Cleaning Mercedes Radar Sensors & Cameras

Clean the following Mercedes radar sensors and cameras like you would clean your windshield. Clean Mercedes cameras like you would clean prescription glasses. Be careful not to press on the sensors too hard. Pressing on the sensors too hard can cause the sensors to come off or get loose, which you don’t want to do.

Using glass cleaning wipes to safely clean Mercedes radar sensors and cameras in less than five minutes is easy.

Grill mounted sensor

Clean the Distronic Sensor mounted on the front grill. Remove dirt that may have accumulated on the sensor.

Windshield-mounted camera and sensors

At the top of the windshield, you have at least a sensor but may also have a camera. Keep this part of the windshield always clean. Use window cleaner to rime any dirt. Also, inspect this part of the windshield for any rock chips. Rock chips in part can cause these sensors to malfunction.

Bumper Sensors

Keep the bumper sensors clean at all times. These sensors can get dirty very easily. Use a clean cloth to remove dirt and grime from the sensors. Be careful not to press the sensor too hard, as this can cause the sensor to get loose.

Side mirror cameras

Clean the sensors and cameras on your side mirrors. Gently remove snow, ice, or dirt that may have been building upon these sensors.

Rear and Front Cameras

Clean the front camera located right below the Mercedes-Benz star.

Right above the rear license plate, you should have a camera. Clean any dirt from the lens.

Distance Collision Radar Sensor

The distance sensor on Mercedes-Benz is tricky to locate because the sensor is mounted right behind the front bumper. You can’t see it with your naked eye. The picture above shows the Mercedes distance sensor location. Clean dirt or ice from the front bumper.

The front right radar sensor is right next to the tow hook. Don’t install a tow hook license plate holder and mount your license plate here, as this will hinder the radar sensor’s performance behind it.

Depending on the options on your Mercedes, you will have cameras and sensors in various locations. Note that you may not have all these sensors installed on your vehicle, depending on the options installed on your Mercedes-Benz.

Troubleshooting Mercedes Radar System

Clean Mercedes sensors and cameras won’t always fix your problem. If you are getting a constant error message on your dashboard stating that a system is inoperative or disabled or the radar system is not working, further troubleshooting is necessary.

The next step that you or a Mercedes mechanic must perform is to read fault codes from various modules. You will need a scanner to read all Mercedes-Benz modules’ fault codes.

What is the Best Scanner to Use for Troubleshooting Mercedes-Benz Problems/Issues?

If you’re experiencing problems with your Mercedes-Benz, a YOUCANIC full system diagnostic scanner can help you troubleshoot the issues. This advanced diagnostic tool can read and interpret the fault codes stored in your car’s computer system, providing detailed information about any problems with the engine, transmission, brakes, or other critical systems.

The YOUCANIC scanner can also perform diagnostic tests on various systems, including the ABS, airbag, and steering systems, to help pinpoint the root cause of any issues. With this information, you can make more informed decisions about repairs and maintenance, saving time and money on costly repairs.