When should a radar detector be replaced?
December 2, 2021
Just like any aftermarket vehicle product, your radar detector should be an investment that lasts. A radar detector’s lifespan can vary.
As radar and laser gun manufacturers develop and update their technology, police radar detector and laser jammer manufacturers must do the same. This technology tit-for-tat has been going on since the 1970s.
If your radar detector looks like any of these, you are decades overdue for an upgrade.
Radar detectors and frequencies since the 1990s
Since 1993, the following frequencies/wavelengths have been approved for use by police officers for radar and laser speed enforcement:
| Band | Frequency | Notes |
| X | 10.525 GHz | few states |
| Ku | 13.450 GHz | not used |
| K | 24.125 GHz | common |
| K | 24.150 GHz | common |
| Ka | 33.4 – 36.0 GHz | most common |
| IR — Infrared | 904 nm wavelength |
Laser |
So if you have a radar detector from 1994 or later, it should be able to detect anything the police might be using for enforcement. But can you trust it?
Although the frequencies used by police radar and laser guns haven’t changed in over 25 years, many other technological advancements in everyday life are now using those same frequencies. This can cause false alerts for an older radar detector from items such as:
- Automatic door openers
- Security systems
- Traffic Sensor Filters
- Collision Avoidance Systems
- Blind Side Assist
- Lane Departure Warning
- Railroad Crossings
- Farm Equipment
- Construction Equipment / Signs
Before 2015, there was no solution to this false alert problem, but now most manufacturers have engineered some form of K-Band Filter into their products.
Therefore, if your radar detector is experiencing a lot of false alarms, you might want to consider an upgrade.
Since 2015, there have been many other improvements to radar detectors, more extended detection range, more sensitivity, and additional programmability. Today’s radar detectors are all about sophisticated technology and personal customization.
K40 Radar Detector’s Latest Updates
In 2020, K40 Electronics introduced its most advanced product line, the Platinum Series as well as Laser Defuser Optix.
Platinum Series Radar Detector Features:
A NEW DESIGN FOR THE RADAR RECEIVER: New slimmer design and added LNA Technology boost sensitivity, giving up to 40% more performance.
ENHANCED FILTRATION:
- AUTO FILTER: This allows for a seamless driving experience as the system is automatically less sensitive at low mph and offers more range and sensitivity at higher mph.
- KA FILTER: Enhanced filtering of non-police KA band frequencies – particularly useful in metropolitan/cities.
- K & KA BAND SELECTIVITY: Select the range of police radar frequencies the K40 system scans. Narrowing the bands allows for a faster response time and potentially fewer false alerts.
ADDITION OF MRCD / CT DETECTION: Enables detection of photo radar systems (limited use).
STEALTH TO RADAR DETECTOR DETECTORS: for drivers who live or travel through Washington D.C, VA, and Eastern Canada.
Laser Defuser Optix (Laser Jamming) Features: 
DISTINCT LASER DEFUSER TRANSMIT TONE: Drivers will be aware exactly when Defusers stop transmitting and move to receive only when the tone drops to a lower pitch.
MUTE BUTTON LASER DEFUSER CUTOFF: Immediately switch laser Defusers to “receive only” mode with a press of the mute button at any time during a laser encounter.
The importance of staying up-to-date with your radar detector
It’s essential to protect your driver’s license and insurance rates with an up-to-date radar detector that can provide true protection against police speeding tickets. K40 offers top-level protection with the most comprehensive ticket-free guarantee in the industry.
If you have questions about whether or not it’s time to upgrade your radar detector, request a consult with one of K40’s radar and laser experts.
