My 2022 Ranger Stormtrak has in the last few weeks developed a problem with the TSR system.

It used to work just fine and would display the current speed in the bottom right of the instrument cluster. Now it no longer seems to recognise the 'National Speed' limit signs (the White disc with Black diagonal stripe). It also seems to cancel or forget what the last sign was when you turn a corner.

For example you pass a 30 MPH sign and the instrument cluster shows '30' you might then pass a 20 MPH sign and it will display '20' but if you turn a corner the display just goes blank. However, the car SatNav will always still show the correct speed limit.

Checking the instrument cluster settings for the TSR, I get the warning:

• Traffic sign recog.
• Reduced performance.
• See manual.

Of course looking in the manual tells me nothing (unless it's hidden away).

Anyone any thoughts on what the problem is, and how to fix it ? 🤔

I've had similar things in my Fiestas, but they didn't suddenly appear as yours seems to have done. So following probably not much help but:

A scrupulous clean of the screen in front of the sensors often seemed to do the trick. My previous Mk 8 was also particularly prone to losing GPS signal, the current one less so.

The cameras seem very poor at reading NSL signs particularly if they're the slightest bit faded or dirty.

My manual more or less says the same as above:

 

TRAFFIC SIGN RECOGNITION PRECAUTIONS



WARNING:  You are responsible for controlling your vehicle at all times. The system is designed to be an aid and does not relieve you of your responsibility to drive with due care and attention. Failure to follow this instruction could result in the loss of control of your vehicle, personal injury or death.    WARNING:  The system may not operate properly if the sensor is blocked. Keep the windshield free from obstruction.

 

Note:   Do not carry out windshield repairs in the immediate area surrounding the sensor.

Note:   Always fit Ford approved parts when replacing headlamp bulbs. Other bulbs could reduce system performance.

 

 

TRAFFIC SIGN RECOGNITION – INFORMATION MESSAGES



 

Message	Action
Traffic Sign Reduced Performance See Manual	The traffic sign data provided by the navigation system is unavailable due to weak or no signal. Wait for a short period of time for the signal to improve. If the message continues to appear, have your vehicle checked as soon as possible.

31 minutes ago, Eric Bloodaxe said:

TRAFFIC SIGN RECOGNITION – INFORMATION MESSAGES



 

Message	Action
Traffic Sign Reduced Performance See Manual	The traffic sign data provided by the navigation system is unavailable due to weak or no signal. Wait for a short period of time for the signal to improve. If the message continues to appear, have your vehicle checked as soon as possible.

Thanks Roger. I didn't notice that last paragraph in my owners handbook, I'll have to recheck.

The thing is that the system did use to work just fine. Today I've been out and thoroughly cleaned the windscreen sensor, which made no difference. I suspect that the car has done an OTA update of the Sync3 system and this is what has caused the problem.

The actual SatNav system works fine and without fault. It knows and displays the correct speed limit at all times. However, it never shows the national speed limit sign (it never did) but instead will show either '60' or '70' depending on what is appropriate.

I'm tempted to disconnect the battery for 20 minutes and do a full reset, but before I do I'll wait a little while and see if anyone has any more ideas.

2 hours ago, unofix said:

see if anyone has any more ideas.

One other thing I forgot to mention. Again, probably no help at all but In my previous car, the TSR stopped working altogether while driving through a total monsoon, flooded roads etc. I cleaned the screen and tried doing a reset but to no avail.  Didn't drive the car again for over 24 hours** and then found it had started working again. 

** Battery not disconnected, btw.