Short answer
The parking sensor light means park assist is switched off or one of the bumper sensors is not working, often because it is dirty, iced over or blocked by a bike rack or hitch. The car is safe to drive; you just lose the beeps, so check around the car and park with more care until it is fixed.
- Also shown as:
- Park assist light · Parking aid fault · PDC light
- What it looks like:
- A car outline with arcs at the bumpers, sometimes crossed out or with the word OFF.
Is it safe to keep driving?
Yes. Park with a bit more care.
What causes the parking sensor / park assist light?
Most common first. Symbols and meanings vary by manufacturer; your owner's manual has the definitive meaning for your model.
- Sensors switched off. A button or menu setting turns park assist off, and some cars switch it off automatically when towing.
- A dirty or damaged sensor. Mud, ice or a small knock to the bumper can stop one sensor responding, and the system then switches off as a whole.
- A trailer hitch or bike rack in the way. Accessories behind the rear bumper look like a permanent obstacle to the rear sensors.
What should you do right now?
- Clean the sensors in the bumpers.
- Check whether a hitch or rack is in the way.
What does the fix usually involve?
A shop identifies the failed sensor from the codes or by touch-testing each one, then replaces it; a new sensor usually needs painting to match the bumper.
How much does it cost to fix?
$0 – $250
Free if cleaning fixes it; one sensor at the high end.
A typical range, not a quote. Actual cost depends on the car, the shop and the fault.
Common questions
Why do my parking sensors beep constantly?
One sensor sees an obstacle that is not there: dirt, ice, water, a hitch or damage. Clean them all; if one keeps triggering, it needs replacing.
Can I drive with a broken parking sensor?
Yes. It only affects the parking warnings, not how the car drives. Look around and use your mirrors and camera when parking.
Check your car
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