5 Common Radar Detector Mistakes
Using a radar detector is pretty straightforward, although there are a few things that might cause you problems. The whole idea behind owning a radar detector is to keep you from getting tickets, so you want to make sure yours is working properly all the time.
To ensure that your radar detector is always operating as it should, consider the following issues that might occur.
Third-Party Power
This type of problem often occurs with portable radar detectors. Those with barrel plugs are more likely to encounter this issue since there are many third-party options on the market.
A barrel plug is a connector that many companies offer as a way to charge their devices. However, the connector isn’t what controls the amount or type of power coming into the device. That portion is controlled by the piece that plugs into your vehicle.
Because of this, you could wind up with an adapter that fits into your radar detector but could cause serious damage to it by supplying the wrong power type. In some instances, you might wind up with a radar detector that is ruined beyond repair, which means you’ll have to purchase another one.
Always be sure you’re using a power supply that is meant for your radar detector. We recommend only using one supplied by the manufacturer, that way you know you’re using the right one. Reorder only from the manufacturer or an authorized dealer if you need a replacement or spare.
Not Mounted Appropriately
You need to ensure that your radar detector is always mounted the way it is meant to be. Place it at a horizontal level, always behind transparent glass. Not mounting your radar detector properly can significantly impede its performance, which leaves you susceptible to receiving tickets.
Settings are Incorrect
If you’re encountering problems with your radar detector, you might consider whether or not you’re using the settings recommended by the manufacturer. Your radar detector shipped with settings that are appropriate for your country, and chances are a lot of time was put into testing each setting. Changing the settings on your detector could reduce performance or increase the number of false alerts you receive.
If you do change the settings on your radar detector and want to return to the default, most detectors offer a factory reset option. Navigate through the menu, follow the instructions, and your settings are restored to the out-of-box defaults.
Not Performing Software Updates
Just like many of your other electronic devices, radar detectors are becoming more sophisticated by the day. Your computers and phones need updating, and so does your radar detector. Some release several iterations over the course of a year, so be sure to check regularly.
Installing these updates include many benefits, like fixing problems, adding new features, and improving the performance of your detector. Stay on top of all your software updates so you have the best experience possible with your radar detector. Pick a model with wi-fi or Bluetooth features, and it may even update itself automatically for you.
Mixing Up GPS Lockout and Points of Interest
GPS Lockouts and Points of Interest have one similarity. They each give you the ability to mark a location through the use of GPS data. That’s it. The list ends there.
The purpose of the Points of Interest feature is so that your radar detector will notify you when you near a spot on the map you indicated as an “interest.” This could be something like a pothole, a place where police often hide, or anything else you deem noteworthy.
On the other hand, you use GPS Lockout to reduce the number of false alerts you experience from stationary objects. These could be things such as an automatic door opener or a speed sign. The Lockout helps prevent your radar detector from producing false alarms.
As you can see, getting these two features mixed up can cause significant problems with your radar detector, so be sure you are using the right one when creating specific spots on your map.
Check and Double-Check
Radar detectors aren’t perfect. However, if you ensure that they are working the way they are intended, you can cut down on a lot of the problems users run into. Be sure you’re using a valid power supply, the firmware is up to date, the settings are correct, and it’s mounted properly. Doing so will result in a much better overall driving experience.
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