Calibration Research Tips: Toyota/Lexus One-Time-Use Park Assist Sensor Retainers

While searching for information on advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) on an OEM repair information site, you may come across unique calibration procedures or events. These events can vary by year and model, even within a particular make. As the RTS team has been researching these systems, we have been identifying these atypical circumstances. In order to help you better understand them, we are putting together a series of articles that help with the repair and calibration of ADAS. Let’s take a closer look at Toyota/Lexus park assist sensor retainers.

You may notice that on Toyota/Lexus vehicles with park assist systems, that the retainers that hold the sensors in place, use double-sided tape to secure it to the bumper cover. Repair manuals specify that when removing these retainers, new ones should be installed in their place. This makes the retainers one-time-use parts.

The repair manuals specify that the sensor retainers should only be removed if they need to be replaced. This is because the double-sided tape used on the retainer clip may not properly adhere if re-used.

Here are a couple examples from Toyota/Lexus repair manuals:

Per the 2022 Toyota Camry repair manual, Ultrasonic Sensor (for front) removal and installation procedure:

"HINT:

  • Perform this procedure only when replacement of the front corner ultrasonic sensor retainer is necessary.
  • If a front corner ultrasonic sensor retainer has been removed, replace it with a new one."

Per the 2021 Lexus RX repair manual, Ultrasonic Sensor (for front) installation procedure:

"NOTICE:

  • The double-sided tape of a front corner ultrasonic sensor retainer will deteriorate if it is detached. Make sure to replace the front corner ultrasonic sensor retainer with a new one when reattachment is necessary."

This is important information, as the sensor may not function as intended if the retainer clips are loose or falling off due to poor adhesion of the tape.

It is important to always follow OEM procedures for repairs and calibration. Finding this information quickly and efficiently contributes to a complete, safe, and quality repair.

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