Advanced driver assistance systems can help improve vehicle safety, but only when the cameras, radar, sensors, and supporting systems are working properly.

For a small business fleet, even one vehicle sidelined by a warning light or system fault can disrupt schedules and increase repair costs. Bendix shared the following maintenance tips to help fleet operators identify common issues and keep ADAS technologies performing as intended.

1. Do Not Ignore ABS or Stability Control Warnings

According to Bendix, many ADAS technologies rely on the vehicle’s antilock braking system and electronic stability control system. If either system has a fault, some driver assistance features may become unavailable.

Bendix notes that wheel-speed sensors can be affected by damaged wiring, rubbing or chafing along the chassis harness, or service performed near the wheel end. A sensor may also stop working if it is no longer positioned close enough to the tone ring.

Small fleets should ask technicians to inspect wheel-speed sensors and surrounding wiring during routine brake and wheel-end service.

2. Recalibrate After Front-End Work

Bendix advises fleets to confirm that the steering angle sensor has been recalibrated after a front-end alignment, steering repair, or other front-end work.

A sensor that falls out of calibration may trigger a stability control fault or prevent the system from operating properly.

3. Check Sensors After Chassis Modifications

Some stability control systems use a lateral acceleration or yaw rate sensor mounted to the chassis or frame rail.

Bendix warns that if this sensor is moved during body installation, upfitting, framework, or another chassis modification, it must be returned to the correct position and orientation. Incorrect placement may result in a stability control fault.

This is especially important for work trucks that receive bodies, racks, equipment, or other aftermarket modifications.

4. Restart the Vehicle Before Assuming the Worst

Road conditions, terrain, or temporary communication issues can sometimes trigger a diagnostic trouble code, according to Bendix.

When the vehicle is safely parked off the road, Bendix recommends turning the ignition off and restarting the vehicle. A simple key cycle may clear a temporary fault.

If the warning returns after restarting, the vehicle should be inspected by a qualified repair facility.

5. Inspect the Radar and Its Mounting Bracket

Bendix notes that radar sensors are commonly mounted at the front of the vehicle, making them vulnerable to collisions, road debris, weather, and improper installation after repairs.

Fleets should check the radar sensor, mounting bracket, and chassis mounting surface for visible damage. A bent bracket or loose mounting point can cause the radar to point in the wrong direction.

Bendix recommends having radar alignment evaluated and corrected by a trained technician using the service procedure for the specific system.

6. Protect Radar Connections From Corrosion

Because radar connectors can be exposed to water, road salt, sand, deicing chemicals, and other contaminants, Bendix recommends checking that each connector is covered, sealed, and secured.

Catching a loose or damaged connection early may help prevent corrosion and communication problems.

Bendix also notes that a radar may temporarily report that it cannot properly detect its surroundings. This can happen on long stretches of open highway where there are few vehicles or other objects for the radar to detect. Restarting the vehicle may reset the system, but repeated warnings should be evaluated by a trained technician.

7. Keep the Camera and Windshield Clear

According to Bendix, camera problems may be caused by damaged wiring, improper placement, or an obstruction in the camera’s view.

Fleets should check for:

• Dirt, bugs, stickers, tape, or other objects blocking the camera
• Frayed, cut, or improperly repaired wiring
• Loose or disconnected plugs
• Fog, glare, or other temporary visibility issues

If the windshield has been replaced, Bendix advises confirming that the camera was installed with the correct bracket and returned to the original manufacturer’s mounting location. The camera may also require calibration after windshield replacement.

8. Be Careful With Aftermarket Electronics

Bendix cautions that aftermarket equipment connected to the vehicle’s J1939 datalink network can cause communication problems when installed incorrectly or when incompatible with the vehicle.

When an electronic component stops communicating, Bendix recommends inspecting the connectors and chassis wiring before replacing parts. A wire rubbing against metal can create a short or open circuit that prevents technicians from connecting to the component for diagnostics.

If the engine electronic control module is replaced, the replacement must be correct for the specific truck. Bendix notes that some stability control systems require the correct vehicle identification number and vehicle-specific parameters to operate properly.

Give Drivers and Technicians the Right Information

Bendix recommends that drivers understand what each ADAS alert means, how the system normally operates, and its limitations. Every driver should review the operator’s manual and receive training on the systems installed in the vehicle.

Small fleets should also ensure their repair provider has diagnostic equipment capable of reading fault codes from the entire vehicle, not just the engine. Bendix systems can be diagnosed using Bendix ACom AE software.

Technician training should also match the specific systems installed on the fleet’s vehicles. ADAS technologies can vary by manufacturer, model, and vehicle configuration, so one repair procedure may not apply to every truck.

Bendix emphasizes that advanced driver assistance systems are designed to support safe driving practices, not replace a skilled and alert driver. Drivers remain responsible for safely operating the vehicle and should never wait for a safety system to intervene.

These tips apply specifically to Bendix advanced driver assistance systems and may not apply to systems from other manufacturers. Fleets should consult the service information and operator’s manual for each vehicle and system.