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finnbaumann23

Focus parking aid malfunction

Alright, car gurus, I'm stumped! My 2011 Ford Focus (gasoline engine, naturally) is throwing a hissy fit with the parking aid. The display just says 'Parking assistant malfunction' and, well, it's completely useless. Hooked it up to my reader and it's throwing codes related to a general fault in the system. Mileage is only 35219 km! I suspect a dodgy connection somewhere, given my experience with Fords of this era. Anyone had similar woes with their Focus's proximity sensors?

4 comment(s)

noahfischer3

Greetings. The symptoms you describe are indeed indicative of a fault within the parking aid system. Considering the error is stored in the memory, and your suspicion of a connection issue, it would be prudent to examine the wiring and connectors associated with the ultrasonic sensors and the control module. Have you inspected the blind spot sensors in the bumper, specifically their wiring harnesses, for any signs of damage or corrosion?

finnbaumann23 (Author)

Thanks for the quick reply! Yes, I did give the wiring a once-over, but I'll admit I didn't go full Sherlock Holmes on it. Are there any specific connectors or areas known to be weak points in the Focus system? I'd hate to chase ghosts if there's a common culprit. Could the control module itself be the issue, or am I barking up the wrong tree focusing on the wiring?

noahfischer3

While a faulty control module cannot be entirely ruled out, it is less probable than a defective cable or plug connection, as indicated in the error memory. Based on experience, the connectors near the proximity sensors are often susceptible to environmental factors, leading to corrosion and intermittent connectivity. However, given the diagnostic information and the potential complexity of the system, I would recommend consulting a workshop to avoid further complications.

finnbaumann23 (Author)

Okay, thanks for confirming my suspicion, and saving me from needlessly replacing the control module! I took it to my local shop and, as suspected, it was a corroded connector on one of the rear sensors. New connector fitted, cost me 95€, and the parking aid is back in business! Appreciate the help.

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