We all want safe driving experiences, but safety doesn’t entirely lie in our hands. That’s why modern vehicles have multiple safety technology systems to help us drive safer.
But these safety systems are not immune to problems and can be unreliable while driving. If your vehicle displays the “side detection temporarily unavailable” notification, you might wonder what could be the cause.
Herein, I explain why the side detection system is temporarily unavailable and what you can do. You’ll also learn how the side detection system operates.
Question: How Does the Side Detection System Operate?
The side detection system (blind spot detection system) monitors and detects objects in the vehicle’s blind spot. It’s a critical safety feature in large vehicles with blind spots. It helps drivers to make turns or reverse without causing accidents.
This system relies on several sensors to alert the driver of any vehicles, pedestrians, or other objects. These sensors are often mounted on large vehicles’ sides, back, front or corners.
The system works when you lower the speed up to around 10 mph. Moreover, the left indicator must be on. Then, the internal display shows turn “On,” and the system monitors the area. The aim is to detect any cyclist or object in the blind spot.
When the system detects an object, it announces a voice siren to alert the cyclist. The driver will also get a warning through the display.
Answer: Causes of Side Detection System Unavailable Notification
A vehicle with a disabled side detection system will signal that the system is temporarily unavailable. This issue stems from a sensor(s) failing to read its environment (the blind spot). As a result, the detection system can’t tell the objects in the blind spot and warn the driver.
So, are you wondering, “Why is my side detection temporarily unavailable?”
Below are the causes and what to do if you get that warning notification.
Obstructed Sensors
The side detection system utilizes front, side, and rear sensors to monitor blind spots. Like other automobile sensors, these sensors can malfunction due to obstructions. Dust, mud, snow, or slush are the leading causes of the obstruction problem.
If there’s a heavy downpour, the rain can obstruct the sensors and disable them temporarily. These obstructions will trigger the system to display a “side detection temporarily unavailable” warning.
If you’re sure an obstruction issue is the cause, locate the sensors to inspect them. The rear sensors are behind both ends of the rear bumper. These sensors are more susceptible to obstructions that prevent them from scanning the area.
Find a clean microfiber cloth and wipe the sensor to remove dust, mud, debris, snow, or slush. Note that cleaning off the dirt with water can cause further damage. So, use some quick detail spray on the sensors and wipe the dirt with a microfiber cloth.
Corrosion
As we’ve mentioned above, water harms the sensors to a great extent. That’s why you should keep moisture and water off the sensors.
Repeated exposure to rainwater, floods, or cleaning water causes corrosion around the sensors. Road salt and moisture can also corrode and degrade the sensors. Over time, the corroded sensors affect the transmission of electric signals (voltage/current) to the system.
If the sensors fail to send signals, you’ll receive the side detection failure message after starting the engine.
Cleaning the sensors with some rust removal spray can help resolve the problem. However, if the sensors’ damage is irreparable, you’ll need to replace them.
Battery Failure
The battery is the primary power source of all electrical components in your vehicle. It supplies power to the side detection system’s sensors to ensure they’re functional. Unfortunately, a vehicle’s battery is one of the components that can fail over time.
If the battery has insufficient power, it won’t power the sensors as required. Consequently, the sensors won’t monitor the blind spots, and the system will provide the side detection failure message.
Examine the battery with your multimeter to see if low voltage is the cause. Then inspect the vehicle’s charging system to ensure it’s functional. Recharge the battery to see if this will reactivate the sensors.
Corrosion on the battery terminals or loose terminal connections can cause an under-voltage problem. Clean and tighten the terminals to ensure a smooth flow of voltages. If your vehicle has a bad battery, find a compatible replacement.
Wiring Problems
The side detection system has wires and connections for transmitting signals. Unfortunately, wires and connections can wear out or become loose over time and inhibit the transmission of signals. Frayed wires can contact each other and cause electrical shorts.
The connections can become loose if you drive the vehicle on rugged or bumpy roads. All these issues can cause the system to be temporarily unavailable. So, inspect the wiring from the dash to the sensors. Disconnect the connectors if loose, clean them, and reconnect them tightly.
If there are broken or frayed wires, repair or replace them.
Collisions
Let’s face it. Vehicle collisions are not uncommon. And when they occur, they can damage various electrical components within the vehicle.
Rear-end collisions, parked car damage, single-vehicle accidents, or backing collisions can cause damage to the system’s sensors. Even mild collisions with bumpers or other vehicle body parts can deform or damage the sensors.
Distorted sensors might be to blame if your vehicle had a collision. As a result, the system will give the “side detection temporarily unavailable” warning.
To fix this issue, take your vehicle to a repair shop to fix the damaged parts. Ensure the technician replaces the damaged sensors.
Incorrect Installation
An improperly mounted or installed sensor is another factor you should consider. Sensors require a certain angle of installation to do their work.
Improper installation of sensors can happen if you hire an inexperienced technician. Besides, a mild collision can alter the sensors’ angle and render them ineffective. In this case, you can adjust the affected sensors to see if they detect objects as expected.
Alternatively, call an experienced technician to recalibrate the sensors. The technician can also check other installation issues that might lead to the system’s failure.
Note: Always turn off the engine and remove the ignition key when resolving side detection system issues. Then unplug the battery to ensure no current flows through the system.
Answer: Resetting the Side Detection System
The side detection failure message may not disappear immediately after fixing the above issues. The reason is that the system takes time to detect these changes.
You might want to reset the system to make the vehicle’s system work again. These steps will help you reset the system:
- Plug the battery. Reconnect the positive cable first to prevent sparks.
- Insert the ignition key.
- Start the engine.
- Leave the engine running for some time. Doing this will allow the system to reset and start working.
Resetting the side detection system can vary from vehicle to vehicle. In some auto models, you’ll need to drive for several miles for the system to reset itself.
Final Thoughts
A malfunctioning side detection system can leave you helpless while reversing or cornering. If the system fails, you’ll likely see the “side detection temporarily unavailable” notification on the dash. This message indicates you can’t watch the blind spots due to a disabled side detection system.
Obstructions, collisions, a failing battery, corrosion, or incorrect installation are the possible causes. Address these problems promptly to prevent the chances of accidents.