Park Distance Control (PDC)

Operating Principle

The PDC system assists with parking by using audible signals to indicate the actual distance to an obstacle in front of or behind the vehicle.

The rear and front bumpers each have four ultrasonic sensors that measure the distance to the nearest object. The front sensors and the outer rear sensors have a detection range of approximately 60 cm. The range of the center rear sensors reaches 1.5 m.

When driving with a trailer, the rear sensors are not effective and therefore are not activated.

PDC is an assistance system that warns of obstacles when approaching them slowly, as is usually the case during parking. Do not approach an obstacle too quickly, because the system has physical limits and its response may be delayed.

Automatic Operation: When the ignition is on, the system always becomes active automatically one second after reverse gear is engaged (manual transmission) or the R position is selected (automatic transmission).

Wait for this short moment before starting to reverse.

Manual Activation: Press the indicated button. The indicator lamp will illuminate.

Manual Deactivation: Press the button again. The indicator lamp will go out.

Automatic Deactivation: After approximately 50 m or when accelerating above 30 km/h, the system switches off and the indicator lamp goes out. When necessary, switch the system on again.

Audible Signals: An intermittent signal of varying tone indicates the distance to an obstacle:

a higher tone at the front and a lower tone at the rear. As the vehicle approaches the obstacle, the intervals become shorter. When the distance is less than 30 cm, the signal becomes continuous.

If the distance to an obstacle remains constant for three seconds (for example, when you drive parallel to a wall), the signals stop.

If a malfunction occurs, the indicator lamp flashes and a short audible signal sounds:

► when you switch on PDC with the button;
► when you engage reverse gear or move the selector lever to position R for the first time after switching on the ignition;
► when a malfunction occurs while PDC is switched on.

Switch off the system and have it checked at a BMW service center.

PDC cannot fully replace the driver. Only the driver can accurately assess the nature of an obstacle. The sensors have a blind zone in which they cannot detect objects.

In addition, the reliability of ultrasonic measurements is also limited. For example, a trailer drawbar or towing hitch, as well as thin or wedge-shaped objects, may produce distorted results. With low obstacles (for example, a curb edge), the following situation may also occur: the system has detected an obstacle and even emitted a continuous signal, but the obstacle is no longer there.

Remember that a loud sound inside or outside the vehicle may drown out the PDC warning signals.

To keep the sensors functioning, clean them of dirt and ice.

When washing the vehicle with a high-pressure washer, make sure the jet does not remain on the sensors. Maintain a distance of at least 10 cm.