Bumper Cover Repair With ADAS: Mazda

A simple bumper repair on a modern vehicle may not be as simple as it seems. New technologies like blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and other advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) utilize sensors behind the bumper covers. The ability for these sensors to be able to see clearly, normally requires special caution when considering a bumper repair. Many OEMs have different levels of warnings when it comes to repairing bumper covers with ADAS. So, what does Mazda say on the subject?

Mazda warns about not being able to calibrate the blind spot warning system if there are obstructions on the bumper. Per the 2019 Mazda CX3 repair manual:

“Radar aiming cannot be performed correctly if obstructions which interfere with radar emission are stuck on the blind spot monitoring (BSM) control modules or the rear bumper. Perform the following procedure before performing the radar aiming.

― Verify that there is no water, mud, soiling, sticker adhesion, or repairs done using putty application on the surface of the rear bumper, and that there is no mud, soiling or scratches on the blind spot monitoring (BSM) control modules.”

In the Mazda document titled, Polypropylene Bumper Repair, Mazda states that damaged bumper covers, on vehicles equipped with blind spot monitoring, must be replaced. Per the Mazda body repair manual, “If the rear bumper around the BSM control module is damaged, replace the rear bumper.”

For additional Mazda information, check out the Mazda OEM Information page.

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