Parking Sensors Differences Explained

Parking sensors are pretty much standard on all vehicles nowadays. They’re undoubtedly one of the most useful technologies on modern cars, helping us manoeuvre our way into spaces in a safe and orderly fashion. 

As parking spaces and driveways get tighter (and our cars get bigger), the importance of understanding the different types of parking sensors and how to use them has increased. Getting to grips with them will also drastically improve your driving experience and keep that smile on your face for longer! 

In this blog, we’ll explore what parking sensors do, the different types available, and why the matter, especially if you’re looking for your next lease car. We’ll talk about:

Parking sensors are the underappreciated hero of modern driving. They’re clever little devices fitted to your car’s bumpers that help you park more safely. 

These sensors detect objects that you might not see, such as bollards, walls, or even living and breathing things (which nobody wants to hit). They will alert you through a beeping sound, visual aid, or even a vibrating steering wheel. 

Think of parking sensors as your own driving assistant. They don’t take control but guide you gently into your parking space. They also alleviate the need for your passenger to guide you into the space, which I’m sure they’ll be happy about! 

Ultrasonic sensors are the most common and are usually installed on the rear bumper. The sensors emit ultrasonic waves into the area around the vehicle. When the waves encounter an object in its field, they bounce back towards the sensor and off it goes. 

 Pros: 

• Affordable and widely available 
• Simple 
• Usually rear-mounted

Cons: 

• Accuracy and range depend on the number of sensors 
• Can be installed on virtually any vehicle 
• No visual information 

Best for: 

• City cars and compact vehicles 

Electromagnetic sensors are more discreet and usually cannot be seen on the bumper. They emit radioactive waves from the sensor that covers a specific area, and if anything enters, the sensors go off. 

Pros: 

• Seamless appearance 
• Good coverage 

Cons: 

• Often more expensive 
• Less common in affordable and mainstream cars

Best for: 

• Estate and SUVs 

Parking cameras do what they say on the tin; they show you what is around the car when you are parking. It’s a game-changing feature (especially when paired with parking sensors), that removes a lot of the stress associated with parking. 

Once you’ve put the car into reverse or park, the picture will display on your dashboard, providing that extra convenience. On some cars, the picture will appear with graphics on top to help with guidance. 

Pros: 

• Comprehensive view of surroundings 
• Great for tight spaces 
• Integrate with other technologies 

Cons: 

• Visibility can be limited at night, in poor weather, or when the camera is dirty 
• Can be more expensive 
• Might need maintenance 

Best for: 

• Vans, pick-up trucks, or minivans

Parking sensors stake a claim as being one of the best features of modern cars: 

• Prevent accidents - They provide extra guidance to prevent you from kissing a wall or bollard when parking. 
• Save money - Bumper damage can be very expensive, and sensors can help prevent it. 
• Help new or nervous drivers - Parking sensors are a great confidence boost for anyone still getting to grips with parking. 
• Make larger cars more manageable - SUVs and saloons can be pretty big nowadays, and parking sensors can make them much easier to park. 

While parking sensors are not a banker across the board, most new lease cars do come with parking sensors these days. 

Rear parking sensors are the most common, but not all cars come with front sensors or 360-degree systems unless you opt for a higher trim or specify you want them included (for an extra cost). 

Here’s what you should expect: 

• City cars and hatchbacks - Rear sensors as standard, front optional 
• SUVs and estates - Often front and rear included 
• Prestige cars - Usually full sensor systems, cameras, and sometimes self-parking tech as standard

This depends on your confidence when behind the wheel and your attitude towards technology. Some drivers are happy with beeping sensors, while others might enjoy the silence and reassurance of a reversing camera. 

If you drive in busy areas or regularly park in tight spots, a camera would make life easier. That said, if you back your ability to park, parking sensors might be the only aid you need. 

Our advice? If your lease includes both, take it. The extra visibility is always worth it. 

100%. Whether you're new to driving or are a seasoned veteran, parking sensors are a genuine must-have. They make driving less stressful, prevent you from bumps and scratches that cause damage, and are now standard on most lease cars (especially in the prestige market). 

So, if you want tech that protects both your car and your confidence, parking sensors are a no-brainer. 

Want tech like parking sensors as standard? Explore our latest prestige car lease deals and enjoy luxury, safety, and convenience in one place.