AudiWorld Forums

Audi A6 C5/C6: Why Aren't My Parking Sensors Working?

If your sensors aren't beeping like they used to, this article will help you track and fix the problem.

By Brett Foote - April 8, 2016

This article applies to the Audi A6 C5/C6 (1998-2011).

Parking sensors are one of those nice little perks of modern automotive engineering, and they have undoubtedly kept lots of folks from running into things that they just might have run into in the past. Even if you're a good driver, it doesn't hurt to have those tiny little sensors looking out for you in case something (or someone) is in danger of getting rammed by your bumper. If your sensors have suddenly stopped working, fixing them isn't terribly difficult with a little bit of troubleshooting. Keep reading and we'll walk you through the process.

Audi A6 What's Wrong with parking sensors infographic

Material Needed

  • Multimeter
  • Replacement sensors (optional)

Step 1 – Check the sensors

Faulty sensors are the most common cause of the problem.

It only makes sense that if your sensors aren't working, the problem might just be with the sensors themselves! To check them, make sure the engine is off and the parking system is turned on. Move your ear close to each sensor on the rear bumper and listen closely, as you should hear a very faint clicking noise. If you hear nothing, the sensor is bad and should be replaced. Another sure sign that your sensors are bad is if you put the car in reverse and get a constant beep with nothing showing up on the screen, and sometimes the parking assist will blink. If this is the case, replace your sensors and the problem should be solved.

If you don't hear a faint clicking noise from the sensors, they should be replaced.
Figure 1. If you don't hear a faint clicking noise from the sensors, they should be replaced.

If your sensors are working properly, move on to Step 2.

Step 2 – Check the buzzers

If the sensors are working but you aren't getting any sound, you might have a bad buzzer.

The buzzers in your parking system are what make the noises for the system when the sensors detect a nearby object. So, obviously, when they go bad, you won't hear any sounds from the system. The buzzer is located up underneath the rear shelf and can be difficult to access, but replacements will only run you around $30 or so.

If your system is working but there is no sound, you likely have a bad buzzer.
Figure 2. If your system is working but there is no sound, you likely have a bad buzzer.

Related Discussions