sound on a left-mounted display unit.
Note: An alert tone will sound only once each time a
turn signal is activated.

Note: The sensor is wired to the turn signal on
WARNING
the same side of the vehicle as the sensor is
mounted (e.g. A right-hand turn signal causes a Any audible and/or visual alert by the system means that a
right-hand mounted display to illuminate the red sizable, metallic (radar-reflective) object has been detected
LED and sound a tone if a vehicle is detected).
by the Bendix BlindSpotter system and the driver must
immediately act to potentially avoid, or lessen the severity
of, a collision.
The driver activates the turn signal (towards a
side of the vehicle with the Bendix BlindSpotter
system installed) with no vehicle in the detection
zone on that side.

ON

None.

Both red and yellow LEDs remain illuminated.

ON

A Diagnostic Trouble Code has been set. See the
Troubleshooting Section.

Power supply disconnected from Bendix
BlindSpotter

OFF

None.

Table 2 - Operational Scenarios with the BlindSpotter System
NOTE: These are typical situations and responses that may occur when using the Bendix BlindSpotter system. All
possible situations and responses may not be covered in this table.
6

Due to inherent limitations of radar technology, the
Bendix™ BlindSpotter® technology – on rare occasions
– may not detect sizable, metallic (radar-reflective)
objects in the detection zone. Alerts, or warnings may
not occur.

1.6 ALERTS AND WARNINGS
The Bendix BlindSpotter system operates differently
compared to other collision warning systems. It is
important for YOU to fully understand the system’s
features, especially the driver alerts and warnings.

1.11 RADAR CLEARANCE
CAUTION
Vehicle equipment, including trim, etc. must not
infringe upon the zone used by the radar sensor to
emit and receive radar waves. Failure to comply with
this requirement will impair the function of the radar.
Only vehicle OEM-approved covers, trim, and/or cover
panels may be installed around, or directly in front of,
the radar.

WARNING
Any audible and/or visual alert by the system means
that a sizable, metallic (radar-reflective) object has
been detected by the Bendix BlindSpotter system and
the driver must immediately act to potentially avoid,
or lessen the severity of, a collision.

6 in.

6 in.

1.7 BENDIX BLINDSPOTTER SYSTEM
DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES
The Bendix BlindSpotter system monitors itself and if any
malfunction is detected, a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC)
will be set and the driver will be alerted by the illumination
of both the red and yellow LEDs.

1.8 RADAR SENSOR REPLACEMENT
Sensors should only be replaced using like-for-like part
numbers, or their direct replacements, as provided by
the OEM or Bendix. Contact the Bendix Tech Team at
1-800-AIR‑BRAKE (1-800-247-2725), option 2, to request
part number assistance.

WARNING
Do not interchange radar sensors without contacting
Bendix first!

1.9 ALERT VOLUME
Bendix BlindSpotter systems permit the audible alert level
to be adjusted by pressing the top button on the Operator
Display Unit. To adjust the volume, press the button and
the unit will cycle between low, medium, and high, and
back through the sequence.

1.10 POTENTIAL FALSE ALERTS
In certain unusual traffic or roadway conditions, the Bendix
BlindSpotter system may issue a false alert.
Drivers should take into account the road conditions, and
any other factors they are encountering, as they choose
how to react to any alerts they receive from the Bendix
BlindSpotter system.

The only
exceptions
are vehicle
OEM‑approved
covers or trim

6 in.

Figure 7 - Clearance Zone Around the Sensor
For proper operation of your Bendix BlindSpotter system,
adhere to the following guidelines:
• The radar sensor assembly should be OEM-installed
on the vehicle following all OEM specifications.
• The radar’s field of view must NOT have interference
from any other vehicle components such as hand rails,
aftermarket lights, seasonal decorations, or any other
commonly mounted vehicle components. The radar
signal is emitted from the front of the sensor with a
spreading beam. In order to ensure that no adverse
interference is experienced from other nearby vehicle
equipment, a suitable clearance must be maintained
around the radar. This clearance must be maintained
regardless if the vehicle is stationary or in motion. See
Figure 7 for a general guide to the zone required.
• To reduce the possibility of the sensor detecting
objects mounted to the vehicle – like the steps or fuel
tanks – make sure the face of the sensor extends out
a minimum of 5/16 of an inch further than any other
object within six (6) inches of the sensor’s body. See
Figure 7.
NOTE: Bendix does not certify, nor offer warranty on,
Bendix BlindSpotter systems where system performance
is affected by beam obstructions of any kind or unapproved
post-production covers. This document gives general
guidelines that will work for most vehicles; exceptions
may exist.
7

2.0

MAINTENANCE
Maintenance Index

2.1

Equipment Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

2.2

Preventive Maintenance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

2.3

General Safety Guidelines . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

WARNING
The driver is always responsible for the control
and safe operation of the vehicle at all times. The
Bendix™ BlindSpotter® system does not replace the
need for a skilled, alert professional driver, reacting
appropriately and in a timely manner, and using safe
driving practices.

2.1 EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE
Importance of Maintenance - Optimal Bendix™
BlindSpotter® system performance requires a properly
maintained system, without any active Diagnostic Trouble
Codes (DTCs). Have problems indicated by active DTCs
repaired by a qualified technician.
System Problems - If a problem with the Bendix
BlindSpotter system is detected, either both the red and
yellow LEDs will be illuminated, or – in the case of power
supply problems – there will be no LEDs illuminated. The
system should be serviced as soon as possible to restore
full functionality.

2.2 PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE
The Bendix BlindSpotter system is relatively maintenance
free. The key items to keep the system functioning properly
include:
1. Keep the radar sensor clean and free of obstructions,
mud, snow, bugs, etc... using OEM-approved cleaning
products.

Radar Inspection - The driver should inspect the
radar and mounting bracket regularly and remove any mud,
snow, ice build-up, or other obstructions. The installation
of aftermarket vehicle guards – or similar potential
obstructions – is not recommended, and could impair the
operation of the radar.
Radar Damage/Tampering - In cases where the
vehicle body and/or radar have sustained any damage,
or if you suspect that the radar has been tampered with,
consider disabling the Bendix BlindSpotter until repairs can
be made. In addition, an indicator on the dash typically
will illuminate if the system detects any of these conditions.
Consult your vehicle’s operator’s manual or contact Bendix
for more information.

2.3 GENERAL SAFETY GUIDELINES
Follow the General Safety Guidelines on page 3 of this
document.

2. Inspect for any damage to the unit or the Bendix
BlindSpotter mounting surface or bracket. Never use
the radar unit as a step.
NOTE: If the radar sensor was originally installed on a
vehicle panel, check the panel for damage, etc... that
may affect the radar’s performance before reinstalling.
Replace the panel, if necessary, with an original
OEM‑supplied panel. Do not paint over the radar.

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT AT
BENDIX.COM/1‑800‑AIR‑BRAKE (1‑800‑247-2725, OPTION 2)
For direct telephone technical support, the Bendix Tech Team is available at 1-800-AIR-BRAKE
(1-800-247-2725, option 2) Monday through Friday, 8:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. ET. Follow the
instructions in the recorded message.
Email the Bendix Tech Team at: techteam@bendix.com for assistance.

8

3.0 INTRODUCTION TO
TROUBLESHOOTING

Troubleshooting Index

This section introduces initial steps to accurately
troubleshoot the Bendix™ BlindSpotter® system.
Bendix recommends reading the entire document before
performing any troubleshooting.

3.0
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
3.6
3.7
3.8
3.9

Introduction To Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . .9
Troubleshooting Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Troubleshooting Wiring Harnesses . . . . . . . . 10
Electrical Supply Troubleshooting Pre-Tests . . . 11
Electrical Supply Troubleshooting:
Power-Up Sequence . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
Troubleshooting When Both LEDs Remain On . . 13
Troubleshooting When The Alert Tone Is
Not Functioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Troubleshooting The Detection Zone . . . . . . . 15
Troubleshooting When No Objects Are
Being Detected . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Troubleshooting When Objects Are
Continuously Being Detected . . . . . . . . . . . 17

3.1 TROUBLESHOOTING OVERVIEW
Physical inspection: Repair or replace damaged components, brackets, etc.
Note: Bendix BlindSpotter radar and display units are factory sealed, are not
field serviceable and so, should never be taken apart.

Electrical system inspection:
Ignition Power ON

Do any
LEDs illuminate at
power‑up?

NO

Go to Section 3.3

YES
Do both
LEDs illuminate and
remain ON?

YES

• Power-up test (see Table 1, in Section 1.5) completes
OK, but the alert tone is not functioning? Go to Section 3.6

NO

Is the
operator
experiencing system
problems?

Go to Section 3.5

YES

• Power-up test OK, but the driver believes that detection
zone is not correct? Go to Section 3.7
• Power-up test OK, but the system is not detecting
objects? Go to Sections 3.6 and 3.8
• Power-up test OK, but the sensor is continuously
detecting objects? Go to Section 3.9
• For harness troubleshooting, go to Section 3.2

NO

• For all other symptoms, go to Sections 3.3 and 3.4

Test Complete

9

3.2 TROUBLESHOOTING WIRING HARNESSES
Radar Sensor

Operator
Display Unit
Connector Rear

Connector Rear

Harness

72 Inches

240 Inches

Connector Front

Sensor

Connector Front

Display

Figure 8 - Harness Electrical Diagram
All wire harness connectors must be properly seated to
maintain environmental seals. Push the mating connector
until it seals with a click. When replacing a Bendix™
BlindSpotter® radar sensor or Operator Display Unit,
check that the wire harness connector is free of corrosion
before plugging into the new device. Check for corroded
or damaged wiring that may cause connector problems
such as opens or shorts to voltage or ground.

10

If the connector terminals are corroded, this may be an
indication of water intrusion into the wiring system and
possibly into the radar sensor. Replacement of the entire
harness is recommended. If any terminals are corroded,
replacement is recommended.

3.3 ELECTRICAL SUPPLY TROUBLESHOOTING: PRE-TESTS
Ignition Power ON, but no LEDs
illuminate.
Consult the vehicle manufacturer’s service manual and use the
recommended procedures to check the battery and charging system.

Is the
supplied voltage
in the permitted range?

NO, the voltage
is out-of-range

(12 volt systems: range is 11-13 volts.
For 24 volt systems:
the range is 22-26 volts.)

Use the vehicle
manufacturer’s recommended
procedures to make repairs
as needed.
Re-run the power-up test.
See Table 1.

YES
Power OFF. Disconnect the negative (-)
battery cable.
Disconnect the harness at the sensor (J2).
Measure the resistance between Pin 2 of the
harness connector J2, and chassis ground.
Harness

Connector Front

Sensor

Is the
resistance in
the range 0 to
0.5 Ohms?

NO, the resistance
is out-of-range

Repair the ground path
to the system.
Re-run the power-up test.

YES
Power OFF. Connect the negative (-)
battery cable. Power ON.
Measure the voltage between Pin 1 of the
harness connector J2, and chassis ground.

Is the
voltage within 0.5 volts
of the battery voltage?

NO, the voltage
is out-of-range

Repair the power path to the
system. The fuse may be blown.
Reconnect all connectors.
Re-run the power-up test.

YES
Pre-tests completed, go to Section 3.3.
11

3.4 ELECTRICAL SUPPLY TROUBLESHOOTING: POWER-UP SEQUENCE
The system must pass the electrical
pre-test before following these steps.
Clear the zone around the sensor of objects.
Ignition Power ON.
Observe the power-up
sequence. See Table 1.
* Do both the red and
yellow LEDs illuminate for
a half-second, followed
by the red LED remaining
on for a further 5 (five)
seconds, followed by the
yellow LED illuminating
and staying ON?

Does
the power-up
sequence complete?*

Connector Front

Sensor

YES

Both LEDs illuminate and remain ON.
Continue flowchart on next page at

.

NO
Power OFF. Disconnect the harness at
the radar sensor (J2). Power ON.
Measure the voltage between Pins 1 and 2
of the harness connector J2.

Is the
voltage between 10
and 14 volts?
Harness

Test complete.

NO
Do both
LEDs illuminate
and remain ON?

Harness

YES

NO, the voltage
is out-of-range

Repair/replace the harness.
Reconnect all connectors.
Re-run the power-up test.