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FAQ

Q: What is ReverseGUARD?
A: ReverseGUARD is a warning device designed to help drivers back their vehicle more easily and safely. ReverseGUARD uses the latest in obstacle detection technology. ReverseGUARD is also known as a “reverse-sensing system.”

Q: What is the technology behind the ReverseGUARD system?
A: ReverseGUARD uses Ultrasound, the technology of choice of most of the car manufacturers, the same technology used by Mercedes, BMW, Ford, General Motors, etc. Four ultrasound sensors and object detection technology are used to send out (and receive back) sound waves from the system. These sound waves are designed to detect objects in their pathway.

Q: How does ReverseGUARD work?
A: ReverseGUARD is automatically activated when the driver puts the vehicle into reverse gear. The system uses 4 ultrasound sensors and integrated technology to detect objects within a range of 6-8 feet of the back of the vehicle. When the sensors detect an object (or person) within the detection range the system alerts the driver with an audible warning.

Q: What is the detection range?
A: Ultrasound systems are generally designed to detect a maximum distance of 8 feet from the rear of the vehicle. ReverseGUARD is a parking aid, and works optimally in a range of 1-5 feet of an object. The system is designed to cover a detection path the width of a standard car bumper plus up to 1 foot on either side of the bumper. It is not a collision avoidance device and has no connection to the vehicle’s braking system. ReverseGUARD will not ensure safety when backing and the driver is still responsible for using caution at all times, including when backing up.

Q: What design options do I have? Is there more than one model?
A: Our standard design is the Classic ReverseGUARD (RG-10B), a high quality black frame based system designed to fit most vehicles. If you currently use a license plate frame, this will replace your existing frame. That system is also offered in a high quality chrome finish, the RG10C. We also offer a Half Frame system in Black (RG20B) or Chrome (RG20C) which can be mounted with the sensors at the top or bottom of the frame. A special mounting plate is included that allows mounting without obscuring the lettering on most license plates. These systems use an audible alarm to warn the driver of an obstacle in the path of their backing vehicle. An LED warning display is also available addition to the alarm. The LED provides a visual indicator of approximate distance, and green, yellow and red warning lights to simulate distance.

Q: Tell me how the warning works?
A: If the system detects an object at the outer extreme, i.e., 6-8 feet, the driver will hear a slow beeping alarm signal inside the vehicle. When the object is within 3-6 feet of the vehicle the alarm will continue to beep, but at a faster rate. When the object is within 1-3 feet you will hear a more rapid beep or continuous sounding alarm. The warning alarm will be continuous at the 1-2 foot range, alerting the driver of the need to stop backing the vehicle. The beeper is a warning device and therefore it cannot be turned off. If your system includes that LED, that will provide a visual display to supplement the auditory alarm.

Q: What sets ReverseGUARD apart from competing systems?
A: ReverseGUARD is designed to easily retrofit virtually all vehicles. Traditional systems require drilling 4 holes in your car bumper. The innovative ReverseGUARD Frame System incorporates 4 sensors into a patented license plate frame or half-frame design, eliminating the aforementioned damage potential. Generally the license plate is slightly recessed and protected from damage. ReverseGUARD is available in a flush-mount bumper system for those users who prefer that design.

Q: What else can you tell me about your license plate frame design?
A: ReverseGUARD strategically places four sensors into a license plate frame. Two of the sensors detect straight back, while two of them are angled to pick up the rear edges of the vehicle, generally up to a foot on either side of the bumper. If for some reason one sensor failed to operate, the remaining sensors would continue to provide detection. However, once successfully installed, we have never had problems with sensor failure.

Q: How do I know if ReverseGUARD will work with my vehicle?
A: The ReverseGUARD frame system requires a center-mounted license plate for installation. If you car has a center-mounted license plate, it is a candidate for ReverseGUARD. The system Control Box is mounted at the rear of the vehicle, generally hidden behind a trim panel in the trunk. For trucks, the Control Box is generally situated in the region of the tail light assembly. The main wiring is 6’ long and will not need to be lengthened. We have a half-frame design with a special mounting bracket that allows installation without covering the lettering on most license plates.

Q: Is there anything else I need to know about installations?
A: The ReverseGUARD frame can be mounted with the sensors at the top or bottom. If your license plate is higher than 36” from the ground, you should probably mount the system with the sensors in the lower orientation. If you have a truck with a narrow step bumper, i.e., deeper than 4” and/or less than 4” of space on either side of the license plate, call us for more information. Note that the frame fits the standard US license plate and has inside dimensions of 11 1/8” X 5 1/8”. This is the portion of your license tag that will be visible.

Q: What is included in the ReverseGUARD system? If I buy ReverseGUARD, what do I get?
A: The ReverseGUARD system is sold as a complete set. The license plate frame design incorporates the 4 sensors. The Control Box includes the hardware and software necessary to operate the system. The standard, black, Classic design includes a small piezo speaker that mounts inside the vehicle, generally on the rear shelf, perhaps under an existing speaker grille. This wire can be lengthened if you want to move the speaker forward in the vehicle.

Q: It appears that the ReverseGUARD frame is sold labeled. Is that correct?
A: ReverseGUARD is not labeled. The design can accommodate a separate label that can be affixed to the installed system. This is used by some retailers. The basic system comes without a name plate.

Q: Who manufactures and sells ReverseGUARD?
A: Our company, American Road Products, Inc. designed and holds the patent to ReverseGUARD. We have been selling the system since 1999, among the first developers of this technology, and the only patented design in the industry. We are selling through select distributors/retailers/dealers and mobile electronics shops. If you have any questions in this regard, call us at 888-918-8800.

Q: How is ReverseGUARD installed?
A: We recommend professional installation. We offer a prepaid InstallCard that uses the nationwide InstallerNet with professional technicians in most areas of the country. Our various retailers will provide that service. Anyone who install car stereos, video systems, or alarms systems should be able to do the installation in about an hour. Installation instructions are included in each kit sold.

Q: What is the warranty on ReverseGUARD?
A: ReverseGUARD is sold with a three-year warranty. Our experience is that once successfully installed, ReverseGUARD will provide you with years and years of faithful service. Call American Road Products or your local retailer from which you purchased the system if you have any warranty concerns.

Q: How do I know if I need ReverseGUARD?
A: If your vehicle goes in reverse, your need ReverseGUARD. Just read the stats on backing related accidents and you will be convinced! Call us at 888-918-8800 for more information.