with about 34000mi on it, when I put it in reverse info center says "Check Back Up Aid". Cleaned them off, checked the wiring and everthing looks fine. I did a search here and at least wuth mine, you cannot turn this function off and on. Not even with the truck in reverse (of course I don't know it's working right). I also have 2 sensors on my bumper. Not 4 as some do. Any suggestions? Thanks
Jorg

 

The early build 03 expy had the 2 sensors (like mine). When in reverse, I can hit the reset button in the message center and temporarily turn it off. I never seen the check sensor message.

 

The two sensor system you have is actually the more advanced system, as it is still being used on the Navigators. In all reality, there are actually three sensors, two visible sonar sensors, and one invisible radar sensor hidden behind the center rear bumper facia. This "three" sensor system detects objects farther away from the vehicle than do the traditional four sensor systems. You have to be within a few feet of the four sensor system to get a detection whereas the "three" sensor system can detect objects up to 8 feet away, I think, maybe farther. Nonetheless, it's cheaper to produce the four sensor system so that's the reason Ford chose to produce it rather than the more complex and expensive 'three" sensor system; it's not a big deal, but the three sensor system does detect more accurately, hence the it's still on the Navigators. I have an early build 2003 Eddie Bauer Expediton and I absolutely love it; bought it new in Aug. of '02 and have had very few problems; I don't even have the rearend whine like most. Most of my problems have been small noises that bother me but, I can handle minor sounds here and there like odd rattles or ticks; it's the big powertrain troubles that I'm thankful I don't have. However, I hope this helps explain the two vs. four sensor issue, and as far as your problem, I would take it in and let the dealership check the sensor, more than likely you have one bad sensor or a loose connection.

 

Thanks for the info. I had read something along those lines about the 4 vs. 3 sensors. I guess I'll have to take it in but if anyone else has a comment or help, I would appreciate it. PS I think when it isn't working properly, it does not give you a chance to turn it off and on.
Jorg

 

Just had to have my back up fixed last month under warranty. Good thing too, as it was about $45o in parts. It is also the 3 sensor system.

 

I had the sporadic sensor problems too. It was replaced under warranty and it was the expensive middle radar sensor in the middle. No problems ever since (+1 year). No wonder Ford got rid of it on the Expy (expensive part).

 

Could you tell me what this ended up being. We just got an 03 EB Expedition on Saturday and already it is having the intermittent Check Back up Aid message.

 

Mine did this same thing and finally went out altogether, not even the check backup aid. I finally broke down and took it to the dealer. They said the module was bad and replaced that. Works like new again.