First of all, let's find out what the terms mean. BSD stands for Blind Spot Detection and RCTA is for Rear Cross Traffic Alert. Both functions are there to help you navigate the vehicle without hitting any other car on the road, especially when it comes to the blond spot zone and you can't see it in your wing mirror.
BSD/RCTA disabled message highlights
- Common reasons:misaligned radar sensors, 12V battery issues, software problems
- How to fix:disconnect the battery for some time, have the sensors' mounts replaced
- Possible consequences:several smart functions won't work
- Priority level:Low
- Can you drive?Yes
- DIY repair:Impossible
- Repair price range:$150-$1,200
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BSD problem - checking the possible reasons
As this is not the most common issue you will encounter in your Subaru vehicle, I want to quickly discuss it before moving to the main culprit.
The BSD system relies on the sensors that are located in the wing mirrors and also behind the rear bumper cover. This system uses sensors to detect other vehicles and warn you that you shouldn't turn or overtake when there is a danger of an accident.
BSD sensors, in most cases, will stay alive even after accidents, so the BSD system itself will almost never cause problems.
RCTA sensors - the main culprit
The RCTA sensors are two antennas that are located right behind the rear bumper cover. The thing is that these antennas are placed on a very thin bracket and people in forums claim that they could easily bend those brackets with their hands. It means that if this antenna gets hit by a tree or by another car, the bracket will obviously be bent.
Also, you should know that changing the position of the RCTA sensor even for a couple of millimeters will result in the sensor not working. After this, you will constantly see the BSD-RCTA Disabled error message and the corresponding warning light with two cars and a sensor icon between them.
Here's how this can happen:
- you went in reverse and unexpectedly hit something like a tree, a post, or another car;
- some other car in a parking lot hit you gently on the bumper without even leaving a scratch;
- kids were playing football around your car and the ball hit the bumper right in the place where the sensor is located;
- you had the tow-hitch installed and the mechanic wasn't careful enough to not touch the sensors;
- some stone was pushed into the bumper area by the wheel of your car which led to damage to the sensor.
Depending on the strength of the contact, the sensor may be broken or just placed wrongly. In most cases, the sensor will be alive - it will just need an adjustment on the thin metal bracket.
How can you fix the BSD-RCTA Disabled problem in your Subaru?
Well, the majority of Subaru owners will most likely go to the dealer. This problem will not be covered under warranty, so you will need to pay for the repair. In most cases, one sensor and its replacement will cost you about $800. And the dealer will insist on the sensor replacement.
But if the sensor is not visually damaged, it should be OK and there is no need to replace it. Instead, you can order the OEM metal bracket that holds the sensor. Make sure you choose the part for the proper VIN because every year of your model may have different radars and brackets.
So, you can get this bracket and install it on your own or with the help of an independent repair shop. This will cost you $100-$150 instead of $800 for sensor replacement in the dealership.
Even if the sensor requires replacement, you can buy one from Subaru for approximately $350 and replace it on your own or in a trusted shop.
Remember that after replacement, some time may be needed for the BSD/RCTA system to get working. Also, you may accelerate that process by resetting the codes and clearing the error messages. This will help you check right away if the problem disappeared. I recommend doing this before the bumper cover is placed back where it belongs.
Final thoughts
Subaru loves throwing messages and codes that are hard to understand and interpret. But the BSD-RCTA Disabled message is pretty straightforward. This shows one of the common problems with all modern Subarus just because the placement of the RCTA sensors is not perfect. I hope in the new Subarus the company changed the way to mount those sensors that's why the recent models have much fewer reports about this message popping up.
About the authors
The CarAraC research team is composed of seasoned auto mechanics and automotive industry professionals, including individuals with advanced degrees and certifications in their field. Our team members boast prestigious credentials, reflecting their extensive knowledge and skills. These qualifications include: IMI: Institute of the Motor Industry, ASE-Certified Master Automobile Technicians; Coventry University, Graduate of MA in Automotive Journalism; Politecnico di Torino, Italy, MS Automotive Engineering; Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Mechanical University in Skopje; TOC Automotive College; DHA Suffa University, Department of Mechanical Engineering
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