Could be angle, sure, but isn't it also about the sensor's sensitivity settings? I mean, I've had mine beep like crazy just from leaves blowing by, yet stay totally silent when I accidentally tapped a shopping cart (oops...). Maybe it's less about the impact itself and more about how the sensor interprets different types of movement or vibration? Honestly, sometimes I think these sensors have moods or something.
I've noticed something similar with my sensors. Last month, I backed into a mailbox lightly—no alert whatsoever—but the next day, it went nuts just because of a plastic bag drifting past. From what I've observed, sensors usually measure proximity and motion rather than actual impact force. So a gentle tap might not trigger it if the sensor doesn't detect rapid movement or significant obstruction. Honestly, relying solely on sensors can be misleading; always better to double-check visually if you're unsure...
Haha, sensors can be so weird sometimes... Mine freaked out over a leaf once—like, really? A leaf? Makes me wonder, are sensors secretly plotting to embarrass us in parking lots or what?
Sensors definitely have their quirks, but they're usually just overly cautious rather than plotting against us (though sometimes it feels personal, doesn't it?). If your sensor's giving false alarms frequently, you might want to check if there's dirt or debris covering it—especially after rainy or windy days. A quick wipe-down with a microfiber cloth usually does the trick. Also, double-check the sensor alignment; sometimes a minor bump or even temperature changes can throw them off slightly.
As for lightly bumping someone's car without visible damage, it's always safer to leave a note or report it anyway. Even if there's nothing obvious now, some issues—like alignment or internal bumper clips—aren't immediately noticeable. Better to cover yourself and avoid headaches later on.
Good points on the sensors—I've had mine trigger randomly after a windy day, and sure enough, it was just some leaves stuck near the bumper. Quick clean-up and problem solved.
About the bump though, even if there's no visible damage, older cars especially can have hidden issues pop up later. Had a friend whose classic Mustang seemed fine after a minor tap, but weeks later he noticed alignment issues. Anyone else had delayed symptoms like that after a minor bump?
