Radar

📖 YOUCANIC Automotive Glossary

Radar (Radio Detection and Ranging) sensors are widely used in ADAS for detecting objects, measuring distance, and determining the relative speed of other vehicles. Automotive radar operates in the 76-81 GHz frequency range and comes in two main types: long-range radar (LRR — detecting objects up to 250 meters ahead for ACC and AEB) typically mounted behind the front grille or bumper, and short-range radar (SRR — detecting objects up to 30 meters for BSM, RCTA, and parking assist) mounted in bumper corners. Radar works in all weather conditions — rain, fog, snow, and darkness — where cameras may be compromised.

Radar sensor issues include misalignment from minor front or rear impacts (causing ACC or AEB malfunction), obstruction from bumper accessories, mud, or ice, and interference from aftermarket radar detectors. After bumper work, radar sensors require aim calibration — the YOUCANIC UCAN-II reads radar module DTCs indicating calibration loss or sensor faults. Some radar calibrations require specific reflective targets placed at precise distances.