Ford OnTarget shares parking sensor paint instructions
As advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) become more prevalent, the newest Ford OnTarget newsletter, 2026 Volume 1, explores parking sensor paint instructions for its vehicles, including specific paint applications on bumpers that contain sensors that feed into ADAS.
Gerry Bonanni, senior damageability engineer for Ford, notes that the Ford Workshop Manual (WSM) provides updates and changes to repair procedures.
The following information can be found in the WSM under “Section 413-13A Parking Aid – Vehicles With: Front Parking Aid/Rear Parking Aid, General Procedures.”
For parking aid sensor painting, Ford says do not:
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- Touch up or re-paint sensors. If a sensor is already painted, it must be replaced.
- Sand or scuff the sensor before painting. Service parts come primed and ready for painting.
- Allow paint to get into the connector; mask it off.
- Use immersion cleaning. Instead, only use the wipe method.
Using the 2026 model year F-150 as an example, OnTarget says to start by removing the isolator ring from the sensor and cleaning it with a soft or microfiber cloth. Next, wipe the area that will be painted with isopropyl alcohol and immediately dry it.
OnTarget notes to only expose the front of the sensor membrane for painting, ensuring the paint doesn’t extend more than 4 mm (about 5/32 inch) from the front edge.
Next, completely mask the sensor to prevent overspray, and paint the membrane. Allow the paint to properly cure at the maximum curing temperature of 194° F (90° C) for one hour.
After verifying the correct paint thickness, reinstall the isolator ring onto the sensor and test that it operates properly.
The volume also includes the second installment of a sectioning repair option on the Ford Explorer, as well as body composition details on the Ford Escape.
Images
Featured image: 2026 Ford F-150 STX Lobo, Platinum, and XLT. (Provided by Ford)