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Where is the pre-collision sensor on a Ford Edge?

The pre-collision sensor on a Ford Edge is typically located behind the front grille, near the center of the vehicle. This sensor is part of the Ford Co-Pilot360 safety suite, which includes advanced driver-assistance features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and pedestrian detection.


Understanding the Pre-Collision Sensor


The pre-collision sensor on the Ford Edge is a radar-based system that constantly scans the road ahead for potential collision threats. If the sensor detects an imminent collision, it can automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate the impact. This technology is designed to enhance the vehicle's safety and help protect the driver, passengers, and other road users.


Location of the Pre-Collision Sensor


The pre-collision sensor is typically located behind the front grille of the Ford Edge, near the center of the vehicle. This positioning allows the sensor to have a clear, unobstructed view of the road ahead, which is crucial for its effective operation.


The exact location of the sensor may vary slightly between different model years or trim levels of the Ford Edge, but it is generally found in the same general area behind the front grille.


Maintaining the Pre-Collision Sensor



  • Keep the front grille and sensor area clean and free of obstructions, such as dirt, snow, or ice, to ensure optimal sensor performance.

  • Avoid modifying or tampering with the sensor, as this could affect its functionality and potentially disable the pre-collision safety features.

  • If the sensor requires repair or replacement, it is recommended to have the work done by a qualified Ford technician to ensure proper installation and calibration.


By understanding the location and importance of the pre-collision sensor on your Ford Edge, you can help ensure that this advanced safety feature continues to function as intended, providing an extra layer of protection for you and your passengers.

How to reset pre-collision assist?


To reset a pre-collision system malfunction, first try a simple car restart. If that fails, clean the front sensors and camera lens, as dirt is a common cause. A more thorough reset can be done by disconnecting the negative battery terminal for 10-15 minutes, or by checking and potentially replacing any blown fuses. 
Simple resets

  • Restart the vehicle: Turn your car off, wait for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the computers to power down, and then restart it. 
  • Clean the sensors: Wipe down the front of the vehicle, paying special attention to the area behind the brand emblem and the front windshield, as dirt or debris can block the camera and radar sensors. 

This video demonstrates how to clean the pre-collision sensors and restart the vehicle: 57sCar FixYouTube · Jul 2, 2025
Advanced resets
  • Disconnect the battery: Disconnect the negative battery terminal for about 10 to 15 minutes to fully power down the electronics. Remember to reconnect the terminal securely before starting the car. Some models may require a longer time or connecting the terminals together after disconnection to fully drain the reserve voltage.
  • Check fuses: Inspect the vehicle's fuses to see if any related to the pre-collision system have blown. A short circuit could cause a fuse to blow. 

When to see a professional
  • If the warning persists after these steps, there may be a more complex issue like a faulty sensor, a wiring problem, or a need for a professional diagnostic tool.
  • A dealership or a mechanic with the correct diagnostic software can read the error codes and perform any necessary recalibrations or repairs. 



How to clean a radar sensor?


To clean a car's radar sensor, use a soft cloth, like a microfiber cloth, to gently wipe away dirt, snow, ice, or grime. For stubborn spots, you can dampen the cloth with water or a mild car washing detergent. Avoid abrasive materials, strong impacts, or stickers on the sensor's surface to prevent damage. 
This video demonstrates how to clean a radar sensor: 50sVehicle FreakYouTube · Sep 29, 2023
Step-by-step cleaning guide

  1. Locate the sensor: The sensor is typically behind the front grille, often integrated into the front emblem or bumper. Check your owner's manual for the exact location. 
  2. Wipe with a soft cloth: Use a dry, soft cloth (like microfiber) to gently wipe the sensor's surface. 
  3. Use a damp cloth for stubborn dirt: If dirt, bugs, or grime remain, lightly dampen the cloth with water or a mild car washing detergent and wipe again. 
  4. Dry the sensor: Use a separate dry, soft cloth to gently dry the sensor completely. 
  5. Inspect for damage: After cleaning, check for any physical damage to the sensor or its cover. 

Important considerations
  • Avoid abrasive materials: Never use abrasive cloths or materials that could scratch the sensor's surface. 
  • Do not use excessive force: Avoid applying strong impact or using excessive force when cleaning. 
  • Avoid stickers: Do not place any stickers, including transparent ones, on the radar sensor or its cover. 
  • Check your owner's manual: Refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for specific cleaning instructions and sensor locations for your model. 



Where is the pre-collision sensor located?


The pre-collision assist sensor is typically located in one of two places: a radar sensor behind the front bumper/grille and a camera near the rearview mirror on the windshield. The radar sensor is often in the center of the lower grille, behind a fascia cover. The system relies on both sensors, so it's important to keep both the front grille area and the windshield area in front of the camera clean.
 
This video shows how to troubleshoot and clean the sensors: 56sCarnivautoYouTube · Aug 29, 2025

  • Radar Sensor: Located behind the front bumper or in the grille, often behind a plastic fascia cover in the center of the lower grille. 
  • Camera: Located on the inside of the windshield, near the rearview mirror. 

You can watch this video to see where the sensors are located: 1mNexologyYouTube · Aug 17, 2025



Why does the pre-collision system light come on?


The pre-collision system relies on a front radar sensor and camera, usually behind the windshield near the rearview mirror. Dirt, debris, or misalignment can trigger system unavailability warnings and disable cruise control. Start by cleaning the sensor area gently with a soft cloth.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.