Where is the front collision sensor?
The front collision sensor is typically located in one of two places depending on the system: a radar sensor located behind the front bumper/grille or a camera mounted behind the windshield near the rearview mirror. Exact position varies by vehicle.
In this report, we examine where these sensors sit on common modern cars, why the locations differ, and how to identify and care for them safely.
Sensor types and typical placements
Radar-based front collision sensors
Radar units are often tucked behind the front bumper fascia or within the grille. They emit radio waves forward to detect vehicles, pedestrians, or other obstacles, enabling forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.
Where you typically find them:
- Behind the lower front grille or bumper area
- Inside a center or side-mounted housing within the bumper
- In some models, integrated with the grille module behind decorative covers
- Behind a protective panel in the bumper reinforcement area
These sensors are designed to be weatherproof, but dirt, ice, or bumper damage can degrade performance.
Camera-based front collision sensors
Many vehicles pair a forward-facing camera with radar. The camera is typically mounted behind the windshield, near the top center, to monitor traffic and road conditions.
Common camera placements include:
- Behind the rearview mirror at the top edge of the windshield
- In a housing that may be shared with a rain sensor or other ADAS components
- Some vehicles use dual cameras or a wide-angle lens for better field of view
Clean visibility is essential; smudges, glare, or windshield damage can impair detection.
In practice, many cars use a sensor fusion approach, combining radar and camera data to improve reliability and redundancy.
Locating the sensor on your vehicle
Because placements vary by make and model, use these steps to identify the FCW sensor location on your vehicle.
- Check the owner's manual or official service information for your exact model and year.
- Inspect the front bumper/grille area for a small rectangular sensor module; it may be centered or offset to the left or right of the center.
- Inspect the windshield area behind the rearview mirror for a camera housing; look for a small dark window or lens cluster.
- Note that some vehicles house the camera in the inside mirror assembly or in a module integrated with the rain sensor.
If you’re unsure, contact a dealer or qualified technician to avoid compromising safety systems.
Maintenance and safety tips
Keeping the front collision sensors unobstructed and properly aligned is essential for safety systems to function correctly. Here are practical tips:
- Keep the sensor surfaces clean and free of snow, ice, mud, or water spray.
- Avoid painting or applying decals over the bumper sensors or camera windows.
- Be cautious when installing front bumper guards, grills, or protective films that could cover sensors.
- Have the sensor alignment checked after any collision, bumper work, or substantial impact.
- If the dash lights indicate a fault with FCW/AEB, have the system diagnosed by a professional.
Proper maintenance helps ensure the system remains reliable in emergency situations.
Summary
Front collision sensors are typically found either behind the front bumper/grille (radar) or behind the windshield near the rearview mirror (camera), with many vehicles using a combination for sensor fusion. Exact placement varies by make and model, so consult the owner's manual or a dealer for the precise location and care instructions. Regular cleaning and careful servicing help ensure forward collision warnings and automatic braking operate when needed.
