Evoque Auto High Beam Assist (AHBA) Troubleshooting: Sensor Blocked and System Malfunctions
The Auto High Beam Assist (AHBA) feature in modern vehicles like the Range Rover Evoque is designed to enhance driving safety and convenience by automatically switching between high and low beams. However, sometimes drivers encounter issues where the system stops working, often accompanied by a “sensor blocked” warning. This article delves into the common causes of Evoque AHBA malfunctions, particularly focusing on sensor blockage and troubleshooting steps to restore your system’s functionality.
Understanding the Evoque’s Auto High Beam Assist system is the first step in diagnosing problems. The AHBA system relies on a camera sensor, typically located near the rearview mirror on the windshield. This sensor detects oncoming traffic and ambient light levels to intelligently control the high beams. In the Evoque, this camera is positioned slightly below the rain/light sensor, which is the square sensor often sandwiched between the rearview mirror and the windshield.
One frequent reason for AHBA issues, as highlighted by Evoque owners, is a “sensor blocked” warning. This message indicates that the camera’s view is obstructed, preventing it from functioning correctly. While the warning message itself might disappear, the AHBA system can remain disabled. A common culprit for sensor blockage, and often overlooked, is an obstruction on the windshield itself, directly in front of the camera lens. This could be something as simple as grime, dirt, or even a poorly placed inspection sticker.
If you experience AHBA problems after a “sensor blocked” warning, begin by visually inspecting the windshield area around the rearview mirror, both inside and outside the vehicle. Carefully clean the windshield, paying particular attention to the area in front of the camera lens. Use a soft, clean wipe to gently clean the lens itself. Ensure there are no obstructions like parking passes or stickers dangling in front of the sensor.
Range Rover Evoque windshield sensor area
After cleaning the sensor area, check your Evoque’s instrument cluster to confirm if the AUTO indicator is displayed under the green headlamps icon. If “AUTO” is not visible, the AHBA system might have been temporarily disabled. To re-enable it, navigate to the vehicle settings menu via the steering wheel controls. Typically, you would press the “OK” button, go to “Vehicle Setup,” then “High Beam Assist,” and ensure that the “Activate” option is checked. The menu might have slightly different wording depending on your Evoque’s model year, but the general steps should be similar.
If, after cleaning the sensor and verifying the system is enabled in the settings, your Evoque’s Auto High Beam Assist is still not functioning, there could be a more underlying issue with the sensor or camera itself. While bad weather conditions are unlikely to permanently damage the sensor, a malfunction could occur independently. In such cases, professional diagnosis is recommended. Consult a certified Land Rover technician or a qualified automotive repair specialist to inspect the AHBA system, diagnose any sensor or camera faults, and perform necessary repairs or replacements.
In conclusion, troubleshooting Evoque Auto High Beam Assist issues often starts with checking for sensor blockages, particularly on the windshield. Simple steps like cleaning the sensor area and verifying system settings can resolve many common problems. However, if the issue persists, professional diagnosis is essential to ensure the AHBA system is functioning correctly, maintaining the intended safety and convenience features of your vehicle.
