Where is the pre collision sensor on a Ford Fusion?

Ford Fusion's pre-collision system uses two sensors rather than a single unit: a forward radar sensor mounted in the front grille/bumper area and a camera mounted behind the windshield near the rearview mirror. Both work together to detect hazards and help prevent frontal collisions.

Sensor components and their locations

The Pre-Collision Assist system relies on two main hardware components. The radar sensor is located in the front bumper/grille area, while the camera sits inside the vehicle behind the windshield near the rearview mirror.

• Radar sensor location: Front bumper lower grille area, typically behind the grille opening and integrated with the front crash structure.


• Camera location: Inside the cabin, mounted at the top of the windshield near the rearview mirror, providing a clear forward view.

Note: Exact placement can vary by model year and trim; check the owner's manual or contact a Ford dealer for your specific vehicle.

Verifying and using the system

To ensure the system is active and operating correctly, follow these steps:

1. Start the vehicle and navigate to Settings > Vehicle > Pre-Collision Assist (or similar) to confirm the feature is enabled.


2. Ensure nothing blocks the sensors, such as bumper covers, roof racks, or aftermarket additions that could obstruct the radar or camera.


3. If a fault message appears (for example, Pre-Collision Assist Unavailable), have the system inspected by a dealer or qualified technician.


4. Test in a safe, controlled environment to understand how alerts and braking assist respond, but never rely on the system in heavy traffic or hazardous conditions.

Refer to the owner’s manual for exact menu paths and troubleshooting steps tailored to your model year.

Maintenance and safety considerations

Keep all sensors clean and unobstructed; avoid mounting aftermarket equipment near the sensors, and have any bumper repairs or sensor calibrations performed by a trained technician to maintain proper alignment and performance.

Summary

In the Ford Fusion, there isn’t a single “pre-collision sensor.” The system relies on a radar sensor in the front bumper/grille area and a forward-facing camera behind the windshield to detect potential collisions and assist with warnings and braking. Sensor placement can vary by model year and trim, so consult your owner’s manual or a Ford dealer for your specific vehicle’s configuration.

Where is the collision sensor on a Ford Fusion?

Along with a camera behind the windshield near the rear view mirror. So if either of these components is blocked the system may stop functioning properly.

Where is the collision warning sensor located?

Crash sensor locations vary by vehicle but are commonly found on or behind the front bumper, on the upper radiator support, or beneath the fenders on the driver and passenger sides. Some older vehicles may have a single sensor, while newer cars often have multiple sensors located in these front-end areas, sometimes requiring the bumper to be removed for access.
 
You can watch this video to see the location of the crash sensors on a car: 44sAuto Repair GuysYouTube · Feb 4, 2021
Common locations

• Radiator support: Sensors are often mounted on the upper radiator support or the frame/crash bar behind the radiator. 
• Under the front bumper: Many vehicles have sensors positioned directly behind the front bumper, sometimes requiring it to be removed to access. 
• Under the fenders: Some models, particularly BMWs, place the sensors under the fenders in the front corners of the vehicle. 
• Frame rails: In some cases, sensors can be found on the inner or outer sides of the frame rails. 

How to identify them

• Connectors: Crash sensors are often identifiable by their yellow connectors, as yellow is a standard color for airbag system components. 
• Number: While some older cars may have one sensor, modern vehicles typically have at least two, often one on the driver's side and another on the passenger's side. 

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.

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.