They can. The sensor itself may survive, but its mounting, wiring or painted bumper area can be damaged in a low-speed impact.
Convenience comes with complexity
Parking aids are genuinely useful, particularly on cars with poor rear visibility. The point is not to avoid them; it is to understand that bumper repairs may involve more than plastic and paint.
Test every sensor before buying used
Put the system through a normal parking manoeuvre. False warnings or one silent corner can indicate a fault. Cameras should also display clearly and consistently.
Inspect previous repairs
Uneven paint, poor panel gaps or sensors sitting at odd angles can point to earlier bumper work. Ask what happened if something looks wrong.
Parking aids are useful, but if the bumper is complex it is worth considering repair cost and insurance terms before buying the car.
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