BMW 3 Series 2020-2023 Signal tones User Manual
Signal tones
General information
An intermittent tone indicates when the vehicle is approaching an object. E.g., when an object is detected at the rear left of the vehicle, a signal tone sounds from the rear left speaker.
The shorter the distance to the object, the shorter the intervals.
When the distance to a detected object is less than approx. 8 in/20 cm, a continuous tone is sounded.
When there are objects in front of and behind the vehicle at the same time, with a distance smaller than approx. 8 in/20 cm, an alternating constant tone will sound.
Steptronic transmission: the intermittent tone and constant tone are switched off if the selector lever position P is engaged.
The intermittent tone is switched off after a short time when the vehicle is stationary.
Volume
The PDC signal tone volume can be adjusted.
- “CAR”
- “Settings”
- “Driver Assistance”
- “Parking and Maneuvering”
- “Volume PDC signal”
- Set the desired value.
Visual warning
The approach of the vehicle to an object is shown on the Control Display. Objects that are farther away are already displayed on the Control Display before a signal sounds.
The display appears as soon as PDC is activated.
The range of the sensors is represented in the colors green, yellow, and red when obstacles are detected.
Lanes are faded in for better estimation of the required space.
When the image of the rearview camera is displayed, the switch can be made to PDC or to a different view with obstacle markings as needed:
- Press the Controller to the left, if needed.
- For instance “Park. sensors only”
Cross-traffic warning: depending on the equipment, it is warned in the PDC display against vehicles approaching in the front or rear from the side.
Additional information:
Cross-traffic warnings, refer to page 262.
System limits
Safety information
Warning
The system is designed to operate in certain conditions and circumstances. Due to conditions or other factors, the system may not respond. There may be a risk of accident or risk of damage to property. Actively intervene as warranted. Refer to the information in this Owner’s Manual regarding the scope of the system’s operation and limitations.
System limits of the sensors
Additional information:
For ultrasonic sensors, refer to page 39.
- Limits of ultrasonic measurement
The detection of objects with ultrasonic measurements can run into physical limits, e.g., in the following situations:
With obstacles and persons at the edge of the lane.
Low objects already displayed, for instance, curbs can move into the blind area of the sensors before or after continuous tone sounds.
Unwarranted warnings
Reaching the system limits can cause unwarranted warnings.
To prevent unwarranted alarms, switch off automatic Park Distance Control PDC activation on obstacle detection, for instance in automatic car washes.
Malfunction
A Check Control message is displayed.
The white icon is displayed, and the range of the sensors is dimmed on the Control Display.
PDC Park Distance Control malfunction. Have the system checked by a dealer’s service center or another qualified service center or repair shop.
Depending on the equipment version: emergency brake function, Active PDC
Principle
The emergency braking function of PDC initiates an emergency braking in case of acute risk of collision.
General information
Due to system limits, a collision cannot be prevented under all circumstances.
The function is available below walking speed when driving in reverse or rolling backward.
A press of the accelerator pedal interrupts the brake intervention.
After emergency braking to a stop, further creeping toward an obstacle is possible. Proceed with caution. To move forward, lightly press the accelerator pedal and release as needed.
If the accelerator pedal is depressed longer, the vehicle drives off. Manual braking is possible at any time.
The system uses the ultrasonic sensors of the Park Distance Control PDC and the Parking Assistant.
Safety information
Warning
The system cannot serve as a substitute for the driver’s personal judgment in assessing the traffic situation. Based on the limits of the sysâ€tem, it cannot independently react to all traffic situations. There is a risk of an accident. Adjust driving style to traffic conditions. Watch traffic and vehicle surroundings closely and actively intervene where appropriate.
Additionally, the safety information for the PDC Park Distance Control and the Automatic Parking Assistant apply.
Additional information:
- PDC Park Distance Control, refer to page 240.
Automatic Parking Assistant, refer to page 247. -
Reference Links
View Full User Guide: BMW 3 Series 2020-2023 User Manual
Download Manuals: https://www.bmwusa.com/owners-manuals.html
