Refinishing Park Assist Sensors: Tesla

Park assist sensors are part of the park assist system, just one of many advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) found on vehicles today. Damaged sensors are typically replaced and may require painting to match the vehicle. Vehicle makers often provide information on the painting of new sensors. Some vehicle makers do not recommend refinishing sensors with minor finish damage because excessive paint thickness may adversely affect the operation of the park assist system. However, other vehicle makers allow refinishing and provide guidelines. Let’s see what Tesla has to say.

Tesla provides information in vehicle-specific Collision Repair Procedures ➤ Part Repairability Guidelines ➤ Painting Park Assist Sensors.

Tesla states:

  • "Parking sensors that are already painted cannot be repainted. Already-painted parking sensors must be replaced.
  • Do not scuff the sensor membrane prior to painting. Scuffing the sensor membrane can result in damage to the sensor.
  • Make sure that the paint does not extend more than 4 mm (5/32 in) from the front surface of the sensor membrane. Improperly painted sensors might not function properly."

The document goes on to further state: "Although there are several generations of park assist sensors, this procedure applies to all generations of park assist sensors."

The Painting Park Assist Sensors document is specifically for new, unfinished sensors and includes instructions on how to properly paint park assist sensors.

Follow OEM procedures and warnings to help ensure a complete, safe, and quality repair.

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

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