Warning lights

Lane departure warning system light on

This light means the camera-based system that warns you when drifting out of your lane has a fault and is temporarily unavailable, usually due to a dirty or blocked camera.

Difficulty
Easy
Time
10–20 minutes to check
DIY cost
$0–$10
Pro cost
$100–$300 for camera recalibration

Symptoms

  • Lane departure icon lit or a message saying the system is unavailable
  • No steering assist or lane warnings while driving
  • Sometimes appears in heavy rain, fog, or glare

Likely causes

  • CommonWindshield camera blocked by dirt, snow, or a stickerThe camera near the rearview mirror needs a clear view of lane markings.
  • CommonFaded or missing lane markings on the roadThe system can't detect lanes if the road markings themselves are worn away.
  • PossibleHeavy rain, fog, or glareReduces the camera's ability to see lane lines reliably.
  • PossibleWindshield replaced without recalibrating the cameraMany systems need recalibration after any windshield work.
  • Less commonCamera or module hardware faultLess common but possible with age or after a collision.

What to do

  1. Clean the windshield around the camera area, usually near the top center by the mirror.
  2. Check for anything blocking the camera's view, like a sticker, dashcam mount, or ice.
  3. Note if the issue happens mainly in heavy rain, fog, or on roads with faded lane lines.
  4. If the windshield was recently replaced, confirm whether the camera was recalibrated afterward.
  5. Have a shop recalibrate the camera if a windshield was replaced and this wasn't done.
  6. Have the system diagnosed by a dealer or shop if cleaning and clear conditions don't restore it.

Tools and parts

  • Glass cleaner and soft cloth

When to call a pro

See a dealer or shop for camera recalibration if the windshield was recently replaced or the system stays unavailable in normal driving conditions.

Safety

Generally low risk

Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.

Related guides

Operator provides AI-generated troubleshooting information. It can be wrong. For safety-critical, electrical, gas, structural, medical, automotive safety, or other high-risk problems, consult a qualified professional.