The BMW iX comes equipped with Collision Warning Systems. These help you avoid accidents or, at the very least, minimize the impact speed. Sometimes, you might need to turn the collision warning systems off. (Most should be on automatically.)
This blog post, put together using the official owner’s manual, explains how to do that. It isn’t a replacement for the BMW iX owner’s manual and should be read alongside it. Turn the collision warning system off at your own risk. Doing so might make an accident more likely!
What are collision warning systems on the BMW iX?
In the BMW iX, the collision warning systems sound an audible alarm when sensors detect that a crash is likely ahead. If applicable and activated, the car will also automatically apply the brakes.
The exact nature of your collision warning systems depends on the equipment specifications and trim levels. However, it might include any of the following:
- Rear-end collision warning
- Turning at a road junction (intersection) warning
- Oncoming traffic warning
- Turning into oncoming traffic warning
- Pedestrian warning
- Evasion Assistant
Collision warning systems are also linked to other iX assists, such as the Lane Change Assistant. The collision warning systems won’t work at speeds below 3 mph (5 km/h) or above 155 mph (250 mk/h). As such, take extra care in parking lots.
The collision warning system is, of course, helpful in avoiding accidents. If you’re approaching another vehicle or road user and haven’t noticed them (or vice versa!), you’ll have a better chance of safely dodging the situation.
In some cases, when the brakes automatically apply, the main focus is to slow you down. Some impacts are unavoidable, but by reducing your speed, the risk to life is less severe.
What sensors do the BMW iX collision warning systems use?
The BMW iX collision warning systems use radar sensors and a camera. These are found in the following locations:
- Front radar sensor
- Front/side radar sensors
- Camera behind the windshield
How to turn collision warning systems off on the BMW iX
Follow these instructions to turn the collision warning systems off (temporarily) in the BMW iX.
- Press the assist button.
- It’s a vehicle with three horizontal lines in the bottom right of the icon.
- Choose Driver assistance.
- Select Safety and warnings.
- Find and deactivate the relevant assists you want to turn off.
Note that these reactivate when you switch the iX off and on again. If you want to turn them off again, you’ll need to follow the same process once more. This must be done every time you restart your car.
Do you need to activate collision warning systems in the BMW iX?
The primary collision warning systems that come with your car should activate automatically every time you start your iX. However, some might not. Again, this depends on your car’s specifications. Consult your owner’s manual or local service provider for more information.
What happens when the collision warning system detects a risk of a collision?
When the sensors recognize a hazard ahead, a warning will illuminate on the dashboard. The general warning light is a flashing red triangle. At this point, you should quickly react, taking evasive action (braking and/or steering) if necessary.
If applicable, the brake intervention assist might also bring your car to a stop. Note that this isn’t necessarily active, so you should always press the brake pedal regardless.
There are many warning symbols and different ways the iX might react that I haven’t covered on this page. Get familiar with these by reading your owner’s manual before driving your car!
Commonly reported problems with the BMW iX collision warning systems
I’ve come across several iX owners (of different specifications and trims) who have had collision warning system problems. One of the most common is an intermittent (or continuous) yellow front collision warning light.
Mechanics might check for the following:
- Cleanliness and visibility of the sensors and camera (windshield)
- The hardware and software of the sensors and camera
- A software update
- Damaged grille
- Broken radar sensor mount
They might also do a full system reset. ‘Off-and-on-again’ still works! In most cases, the fix comes about via a software reset or a hardware replacement. These should usually be covered by your warranty. The light might have activated due to a collision, no matter how minor (such as a parking lot ding or hitting an in-flight bird).
No matter the problem you’re experiencing, you should take your car to a BMW service provider or qualified technician. Damaging something while working on these systems yourself could significantly impact your warranty if you are involved in a collision at some point.
Collision warning systems are far too intricate to mess with yourself. While you could check for remote software updates and wash your car, leave everything electronic and technical to the experts. You’ll find far more detailed information about the collision warning systems in the BMW iX owner’s manual. Please read this before driving your car! There’s a PDF version below.
FAQs
What are BMW iX collision warning systems, and how do they work?
BMW iX collision warning systems are safety features that provide warnings and, if necessary, automatic braking to prevent or reduce the severity of collisions. They work using radar sensors and a camera to detect potential collision risks and activate audible and visual warnings.
How do I turn off the collision warning systems temporarily in my BMW iX?
To turn off the collision warning systems, press the assist button, access the driver assistance menu, choose safety and warnings, and deactivate the relevant assists. Keep in mind that these systems will reactivate when you restart your car.
Do I need to activate the collision warning systems in my BMW iX, or do they activate automatically?
In most cases, the primary collision warning systems activate automatically when you start your BMW iX. However, activation may vary depending on your vehicle’s specifications. Consult your owner’s manual or service provider for specific details.
What should I do when the collision warning system detects a risk of a collision?
When the system detects a collision risk, a warning light will illuminate on the dashboard. You should react promptly by taking evasive action, such as braking and steering if necessary. Always press the brake pedal, even if the brake intervention assist is active.
What are some common issues with BMW iX collision warning systems, and how can they be resolved?
Common issues include a yellow front collision warning light. Mechanics typically check sensor cleanliness, hardware, software, and mounts. Issues are often resolved through software resets or hardware replacements, typically covered by warranty.
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