Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Module, Adaptive Cruise Control (Acc): Description
The Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) module lens may 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 to help remove snow/ice. Otherwise, the radar must be cleaned manually.
The ACC module (1) is a stand-alone forward facing radar module, mounted to the vehicle structure. 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 secured to a stamped steel ACC module mounting bracket, located on the bumper beam.
The ACC module and radar sensor communicates with other vehicle ECUs via CAN bus networks for the following:
- 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 upper right adjustable ball stud allows 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 the required speed range 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. 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. 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 the clips are damaged the entire assembly (bracket and module) must be replaced. Also, if the module is damaged, the entire assembly must be replaced.
NO RELATED
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
Pair factory procedures with proven DIY tools so the instructions are easier to execute.
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.