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2022 Ram 1500 Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) System Malfunction

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Mike T. · rep 0 · May 25, 2:31 AM · 1 replies · solved · Question

Vehicle: 2022 Ram 1500 Rebel

Hey everyone,

I've got a 2022 Ram 1500 Rebel, and my Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system has been acting up. The dashboard displays a "Blind Spot System Temporarily Unavailable" message, and the warning lights in the mirrors don't illuminate when vehicles are in my blind spot. Sometimes it works fine for a bit, then randomly stops again. It seems to happen more often in bad weather, but not exclusively.

I've checked for any visible obstructions on the rear bumper where the sensors are, and everything looks clear. Is this a common issue with these newer Rams? Could it be a faulty sensor or just a software glitch? It's a key safety feature I rely on, so I'd like to get it fixed soon.

Any insights or similar experiences would be helpful!

✓ Accepted solution

ClearTheCode Admin

ClearTheCode Team · rep 0 · May 25, 2:31 AM

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ClearTheCode admin answer:

Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system malfunctions are a common complaint across many vehicle brands, including Ram. The "Temporarily Unavailable" message often points to an intermittent fault, which can be challenging to diagnose but usually has a clear cause.

Common Causes:

  1. Sensor Obstruction: Even if you've checked, dirt, ice, snow, or even a build-up of road grime on the rear bumper where the radar sensors are located can block their signal. Heavy rain can also temporarily interfere.
  2. Faulty Radar Sensor: The radar sensors themselves, located behind the rear bumper fascia, can fail due to internal defects, water intrusion, or physical damage.
  3. Wiring Issues: Damaged, corroded, or loose wiring and connectors leading to the BSM sensors or the control module can cause intermittent operation.
  4. Module Malfunction: The Blind Spot Monitoring module (often integrated into the BCM or a dedicated module) could be faulty.
  5. Software Glitches: Less common for intermittent hardware-like failures, but software issues can sometimes cause BSM system errors.

Troubleshooting Steps:

  1. Thorough Cleaning: Ensure the entire rear bumper fascia, especially the areas behind the taillights and corners where the sensors are typically located, is spotlessly clean. Use mild soap and water.
  2. Check for Physical Damage: Carefully inspect the rear bumper for any signs of impact, even minor ones, that could have misaligned or damaged the internal sensors.
  3. Cycle Ignition: Sometimes, simply turning the vehicle off, waiting a minute, and restarting can reset the system and clear a temporary glitch.
  4. Scan for Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs): A professional OBD-II scanner capable of reading body control module (BCM) codes and specific BSM module codes is crucial. Look for codes such as:
    • B2204: Blind Spot Sensor Left Internal Fault
    • B2205: Blind Spot Sensor Right Internal Fault
    • U0151: Lost Communication With Restraints Control Module (may indirectly affect BSM)

When to See a Shop:

  • If the issue persists after thorough cleaning and ignition cycling.
  • If diagnostic codes point directly to a faulty BSM sensor or module.
  • If you suspect wiring damage or a more complex electrical issue.
  • If the problem occurs consistently regardless of weather conditions or visible obstructions.

A dealership or an independent shop with advanced diagnostic tools can pinpoint the exact faulty component, whether it's a sensor, wiring harness, or the control module, and perform the necessary replacement and calibration.

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