What is the parking sensor button?
The parking sensor button is a control in a car that turns the parking-sensor system on or off, and on many models can also activate or adjust parking-assist features that help you gauge distance to obstacles while parking.
What the button does in practice
Most vehicles use ultrasonic sensors embedded in the bumpers to detect obstacles at low speeds. The button toggles whether those sensors are actively monitoring and how warnings are delivered to the driver.
When enabled, you typically hear beeps that grow faster as you approach an object, and you may see distance cues on the dash or infotainment screen. When the feature is off, you won’t hear beeps, though some models still display cameras or sensor data depending on configuration.
Common button layouts and indicators
Because implementations vary by brand and model, the parking-sensor button can appear in different places and with different icons. The following items describe typical variations you might encounter.
- Location: on the center console near the gear selector, on the dash near the steering wheel, or integrated into the infotainment system.
- Icon: often a “P” with curved lines (sonar) or a car outline with waves; some designs show a bumper graphic with waves.
- Indicator: an illuminated light or dash icon shows when the system is on or off; some dashboards display a dedicated “P” indicator when active.
- Scope: in some cars the button controls only rear sensors, while others enable front sensors or full park-assist features.
In newer models, control of the system may also be available via touch controls or voice commands instead of a physical button, and some vehicles auto-engage sensors when reversing.
How to use it safely
Use the parking-sensor button as a supplement to your own observation. The beeps and visual cues are designed to aid judgment, not replace it.
- Activate the sensors before beginning a parking maneuver, especially in tight spaces.
- Move slowly and listen for beeps; the cadence typically increases as you get closer to an obstacle.
- Use any on-screen distance grid or camera view to corroborate the auditory cues.
- If space is extremely tight or you anticipate frequent sensor-triggering, you may choose to leave the system on until parked, then switch off if you prefer a quieter cabin.
By combining auditory warnings with visual cues, you can park more safely and reduce the risk of minor collisions.
Summary
The parking sensor button is a practical control for a vehicle’s proximity-sensing system. It enables or disables audible warnings and, on many models, activates or adjusts park-assist features that help guide the car into a space. Because placement and capabilities vary by make and model, consult your owner’s manual for exact location and behavior of your vehicle’s parking sensor button.
What does the parking sensor button do?
It. Or if you want to search on the left. Long press the automatic parking assist button and activate the left turn signal or select the left side from the center display.
What is the P with a triangle button on my car?
The "P with a triangle" button on your car is likely the parking assist or parking sensor button. Pressing it activates or deactivates the system that helps you park by alerting you to obstacles with beeping sounds or by automatically assisting with steering. The symbol often includes a "P" for parking, a triangle or cone to represent an object, and wavy lines to represent the sensors' signals.
This video demonstrates how to use parking assist in a Chevrolet vehicle: 48sChevroletYouTube · Feb 14, 2023
What it does
- Parking Sensors: This system uses sensors to detect the distance between your car and other objects (like walls or other vehicles) and alerts you with audible beeps that get faster as you get closer.
- Automatic Parking Assist: Some systems go further by actively steering your car into a parking space for you. You typically have to activate the system, choose a space, and then follow on-screen instructions, which may include shifting into reverse or controlling the brake and accelerator.
How to use it
- To activate: Press the button to turn the system on. A light on the button or a green light on the dashboard will usually illuminate to confirm it's active.
- To deactivate: Press the button again. This is useful, for example, when you are towing a trailer and don't want the sensors to beep unnecessarily.
- To use automatic assist: You will typically need to press the button and then use your turn signal to indicate which side you want to park on. The system will then search for a space and guide you through the process via your car's display.
If the light is on
- If the light is flashing, it could mean there is dirt or debris on the sensors, blocking their view. Make sure the sensors on your front and back bumpers are clean.
Where is the parking sensor reset button?
How to reset parking sensors? Here are some steps to reset parking sensors: Turn off the engine and locate the parking sensor control unit, which is typically near the front or rear bumper of the vehicle. Press and hold the “reset” button on the control unit for approximately five seconds.
How to use a parking sensor?
Check your backup display. If you have one and listen for the warning. Sounds the warning alerts get more urgent as you get closer to an object. This can be a louder beep or a faster beep.
