Advanced driver assistance systems rely on clear cameras and sensors to monitor your surroundings.
Dirt, mud, snow and grime can prevent sensors from seeing properly, which reduces the effectiveness of features like lane keeping, adaptive cruise control and automatic braking. Here are some simple tips to keep your cameras and sensors clean and your ADAS working as intended:
- Identify sensor locations. Check your owner’s manual to find where cameras and sensors are positioned around the windscreen, grille, bumpers and side mirrors.
- Keep the windscreen clean. Regularly wash the glass and make sure the area around the rear-view mirror housing is free of haze or film so the forward camera has a clear view.
- Use a soft microfibre cloth. Gently wipe cameras and parking sensors with a clean, damp microfibre cloth. Avoid abrasive sponges or paper towels that could scratch the lenses.
- Clear ice and snow carefully. Use lukewarm water or a de-icer to melt ice instead of scraping directly on the sensor lens. Never chip away at ice on cameras or ultrasonic sensors.
- Avoid high-pressure water. When using a pressure washer, keep the spray at a distance and use a gentle setting. High-pressure jets can damage seals or misalign sensors.
- Check for mud and debris. After off-road driving or long trips, inspect sensor areas for mud, bugs or debris and remove them by hand or with a gentle rinse.
- Avoid accessories that block sensors. Don’t place bumper stickers, bull bars or aftermarket accessories over sensors. According to the AAAA ADAS Industry Code of Conduct, repairs and modifications near sensors should be done carefully to avoid blocking or deflecting signals.
- Inspect for damage. Look for cracks or chips in camera housings or sensor covers and have them repaired and recalibrated if necessary.
- Clean headlight lenses. Some vehicles integrate sensors into the headlamps; keeping the lenses clear and free of oxidation helps the sensors function properly.
- Schedule professional maintenance. If your vehicle has been in a collision or undergone repairs, have a technician check and recalibrate the sensors to ensure they are aligned correctly.
Keeping cameras and sensors clean ensures your ADAS features work reliably. These systems are there to assist you, not take over, so stay attentive and enjoy safer driving. For more helpful tips, visit the Driver’s Lounge on the ADAS Project.
Hiran Alwis is an automotive lecturer and ADAS specialist with over 15 years of experience in diagnostics, advanced safety systems, and technical training. He founded ADAS Project to help everyday drivers and workshop technicians understand and safely use advanced driver assistance systems.