If you are getting the “SCBS inspection required” or “SBC Malfunction” fault in your Mazda, then this article is for you.
In this article, I am going to explain what this fault means and I will also tell you how to fix it. Let’s get to it
What is Mazda’s SCBS?
Before I get to what is causing the “SCBS inspection required” fault message, it’s vital to understand what this system is and what it does.
SCBS on a Mazda stands for Smart City Brake Support and is a system that is designed to apply the brakes in certain situations automatically (although manual braking is still required)
This feature functions when driving at lower speeds (under 18 mph), where there is a lot of traffic and stop-and-go driving is common.
The SCBS tech uses a laser sensor(s) that is mounted on the front windshield of your Mazda.
This sensor scans the road ahead and detects vehicles or objects
For example, if you are driving on the road and another car suddenly stops in front of you, SCBS will detect this and apply the brakes automatically or slow down the vehicle.
What Does SCBS Inspection Required Mean?
Now, let’s look at what the “SCBS inspection required” fault means on your Mazda.
In short, this means your Mazda ECU has detected that there is something wrong with the SCBS system.
SCBS Malfunction Causes
Now that you know how the smart city brake support system works.
We can now turn to the question of why this system occasionally malfunctions.
Here is the main cause for an “SCBS inspection required” fault message
Dirty/ Obstructed Windshield Sensor
The windshield sensor is the most common cause of an “SCBS inspection required” fault message.
When your windshield is dirty or covered with snow, the signal from this sensor will be distorted and this will cause your Mazda to think that something is wrong with the SCBS system.
If you live in an area where it rains or snows a lot, chances are the water/snow is blocking your windshield SCBS laser sensor and this could be the cause of your SCBS malfunction.
Dirty/Obstructed Front Grill Sensor
The front grill sensor is the second most common cause of an “SCBS inspection required” fault message.
The front grill houses several important sensors, including the SCBS laser sensor and the front camera that monitors your car’s speed (depending on the model year).
How to Fix and Reset the SCBS Inspection Required on a Mazda
Fortunately, In most cases, this is an easy fix and you don’t need to take your Mazda to the dealer for repairs. Just follow these steps:
1. Turn off Your Car:
The first thing you need to do is turn off your ignition and wait a few minutes.
2. Clean the Windshield SCBS Sensor:
If the windshield is covered with snow, water, or dirt then you need to clean the sensor using a cleaning cloth or paper towel.
Just be sure to wipe it off gently so no damage is done.
The sensor is located at the top middle part of your Mazda’s windshield.
3. Clean the Front Grille
The last thing you want to do is clean your front grille. When you do, be sure to use a soft cloth or paper towel and wipe off any dirt that may have accumulated there over time and blocked the sensors.
4. Switch on the vehicle
After you’ve cleaned all the sensors, switch on your vehicle and check if the warning light is still on. If it isn’t, then everything’s good to go.
If it is, then you’ll need to take your car to any nearest Mazda dealer and have a mechanic take a look at it.
Additional Sources
https://www.mazda.com/en/archives/safety2/precrash_safety/sbs/
https://glassdoctor.com/blog/how-to-clean-the-inside-of-your-car-windshield