Radar detection and limitations

The radar units use radio waves to collect information about the vehicle's surroundings. They can identify the distance to objects and certain aspects of their movement. It's important not to block the radar units.

There are several radar units aimed in different directions to collect information about the vehicle's surroundings. This information is primarily used by the vehicle's driver support features. Radio waves are continuously sent out and bounce back if they encounter an object in their path. As the waves return, the vehicle can calculate things such as the position and motion of the object.

The radar units are not affected by lighting conditions and work equally well on sunny days and in complete darkness.

 Important

Use responsibly

The radar units and the features that rely on them are supplements to safe driving practices. They do not reduce or replace the need for the driver to stay attentive and focused on driving safely.

Detection zone and field of view

Each radar unit in the vehicle has its own detection zone. The zone is limited by the radar's field of view and range.

Objects in the field of view block what's behind them. The closer something is to the radar, the more it blocks the radar's field of view.
  • If a radar is blocked, certain features may become less effective or respond incorrectly.
  • If the vehicle detects that a radar is blocked, it may disable certain features.
  • Do not place or mount anything in front of or close to the vehicle's radar units. This includes stickers, vehicle body foil and adhesive tape.
  • Paintwork damage in front of a radar can affect its performance. Contact an authorized Volvo workshop for repairs if there is any damage near the radar units.1
  • Make sure that any mounted accessories, extra equipment or externally-stowed cargo don't block the vehicle's radar units.
  • Trailers, bike racks or other towbar-mounted equipment can block the radar, making it and certain features unavailable.
  • The radar units are sensitive to the buildup of dirt, ice or snow in front of them. This affects the radio waves and can reduce the radar's ability to detect objects. Radar obstruction cannot always be identified by the vehicle. In situations where it is detected, the vehicle communicates this via notifications in the display. However, it is still recommended to regularly inspect the radar units and make sure the areas around them are clean and free of obstructions.

 Warning

Clean regularly

Camera, sensor and radar locations on the vehicle must be cleaned on a regular basis and kept free from labels, objects, dirt and other potential obstructions. Otherwise, vehicle functions may respond incorrectly or become less responsive or deactivated.

Other conditions and limitations

Other radar sources can cause interference and reduce the effectiveness of your vehicle's radar units.

  1. 1 Volvo recommends using authorized Volvo workshops to perform any service and maintenance work.