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IndexDataTechnologyRepairsCar careControlsOverview
The conceptThe PDC assists you when you back 
into a parking space. A signal warns 
you of the distance to an obstacle. To 
do this, four ultrasonic sensors in the 
rear bumper measure the distance to 
the nearest object. The range for the 
sensors located at both rear corners 
ends approx. 2 ft (60 cm) behind the 
bumpers. The two center sensors 
cover a distance of approx. 4.9 ft 
(1.50 meters).
The system starts to operate automati-
cally about one second after you select 
reverse with the ignition key in posi-
tion 2. PDC is deactivated when you 
shift back out of reverse.
Acoustical signalsThe distance to the nearest object is 
indicated by a tone sounding at various 
intervals. As the distance between 
vehicle and object decreases, the 
intervals between the tones become 
shorter. A continuous tone indicates 
the  presence of an object less than 1  ft 
(30 cm) away.
The warning signal is canceled after 
approx. three seconds if the distance to 
the obstacle remains constant during 
this time (if you are moving parallel to 
a wall, for instance).
System malfunctions will be indicated 
by a continuous high-pitched tone 
when the system is activated the first 
time. Please refer the problem to your 
BMW center.The PDC does not remove the 
driver's personal responsibility for 
evaluating the distance between the 
vehicle and any obstacles. Even when 
sensors are involved, there is a blind 
spot in which objects cannot be 
detected. This applies especially in 
those cases where the system 
approaches the physical limits of ultra-
sonic measurement, as occurs with tow 
bars and trailer couplings, and in the 
vicinity of thin and painted objects.    
Certain sources of sound, such as a 
loud radio, could drown the PDC signal 
tone.<
Keep the sensors clean and free 
of ice or snow in order to ensure 
that they continue to operate effec-
tively. 
Do not subject the sensors to high-
pressure washers for a prolonged 
period of time. Always maintain a 
distance of more than 4 in (10 cm).<
Park Distance Control (PDC)
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