When you are backing your car in a parking lot or garage, your line of sight is limited to a certain area. Beyond that area, it is difficult to gauge the approach of a vehicle, person, or any obstacle for that matter. The Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) system in the Mazda MX-5 will alert you when an obstruction is detected. This feature may not be equipped in all models.
To enable the Rear Cross Traffic Alert feature, you must first turn on the BSM switch. If not, the RCTA system will remain off. When you put the vehicle into reverse, the RCTA is activated. Depending on the side of approach, an alert flashes on the corresponding exterior mirror. This is accompanied by a loud beep whose volume cannot be adjusted.
Rear cross traffic alerts use sensors to detect approaching obstacles, but these sensors have their limitations. There are a few instances where the rear sensors will not detect approaching vehicles. These instances occur when:
- The radar sensor detection area is obstructed by a wall or similar objects such as a large truck or car.
- The approaching vehicle is straight behind yours.
- The vehicle is parked on a slanted surface.
- You are reversing at a speed greater than 6mph.
Even if other cars in the lot are parked incorrectly, the sensors are prone to fail. That is why, even if your car is equipped with the RCTA feature, it is advised to look around and carefully reverse the car to avoid unwanted accidents.
To know more about the rear cross traffic alert feature of Mazda MX-5, talk to an expert at Cardinale Mazda today.
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Cardinale Mazda
500 Auto Center Circle
Salinas, California 93907
Phone: 877.989.9252