Module, Adaptive Cruise Control: Description
The Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) module lens could be obstructed by snow/ice, dirt, mud, or other elements. A message will appear on the dash to clean the radar. The Radar is equipped with a heating element that can melt snow/ice. Otherwise, the radar must be cleaned manually.
The ACC module is a stand-alone forward facing radar module. It is mounted to the vehicle structure, outside the cabin, in a manner allowing for an unobstructed view. The ACC module can operate as a stand-alone Electronic Control Unit (ECU) or can also be used in conjunction with additional forward ranging and object detection sensors in order to provide many driver assistance systems features.
The ACC module is located on a bracket secured on the passenger right underside of the front bumper support behind the front fascia. The stamped steel ACC module mounting bracket is secured by two screws to a bracket on the bumper support member. The ACC Module consists of a radar sensor, a sensor-integrated ECU with CAN interface, and software for radar measurement, object tracking and longitudinal control.
The ACC module and radar sensor communicates with other vehicle ECUs via both public and private bus networks to provide the following features sets:
- Standard Cruise Control
- Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC)
- Enhanced Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC+)
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go (ACC+)
- Forward Collision Warning (FCW)
- FCW with Collision Mitigation (FCW+)
- Full Speed Range Forward Collision Mitigation (FSRFCW+)
- Advanced Brake Assist (ABA)
One fixed ball stud (4) and two adjustable ball studs (3) secure the module housing through a snap fit into three molded plastic ball socket clips installed in the mounting bracket. The module pivots on the fixed ball stud while the two adjustable ball studs allow the module to be vertically aligned after installation using an ACC vertical alignment special tool and a 3.5 millimeter hex nut driver special tool. Horizontal alignment is performed electronically using a diagnostic scan tool during a ten minute drive at a steady, predetermined speed following completion of the vertical alignment. Any necessary adjustments indicated as a result of the drive will need to be completed.
The ACC module electronic circuitry is sealed and protected within a die cast aluminum housing. A molded plastic cover and a lens or radar dome (5) faces forward through an opening in the center of the front fascia lower airflow grille texture that is trimmed with a bezel snapped into the texture opening. A molded plastic module bezel or mirror cover with a center clearance hole for the module lens snaps over the module and conceals a small square mirror in one corner of the module cover that is used for calibration purposes during the module manufacturing process.
The ACC module includes an applied connector receptacle (2) that is sealed and secured to the module housing with screws and faces downward when installed on the mounting bracket. The ACC module is connected to the vehicle electrical system through a single dedicated takeout and connector of the Front End Module (FEM) wire harness.
The adjustable ball studs and the ACC module cannot be repaired. If ineffective or damaged the entire module unit must be replaced. The three plastic ball socket clips in the module mounting bracket must also be replaced each time the ACC module is removed from and reinstalled onto the mounting bracket.