Driving a car is challenging, especially when the driver wants to change lanes. If the driver drives the vehicle at a high speed, it is not easy to turn around and check the blind spot. Blind Spot Monitoring system has been introduced to help you overcome this issue. Most modern cars are equipped with the technology to warn the driver if another is in the blind spot.
Know about Blind Spot Monitoring system
BSM is a highly valuable driver safety device and allows you to identify what your eyes have missed. It issues a warning message when another car approaches in the adjacent lane. Earlier, this technology was present only in high-end vehicles. But, today, many budget-friendly cars also have this special feature. If you have not found BSM as the standard feature in your vehicle, it is available as the option package.
The blind spot is bigger for the larger vehicle. The highly efficient BSM will prevent drivers from altering lanes into a different car.
Although there are different driver-aid technologies, BSM is very simple. Only ultrasonic or radar sensors are integrated into either side of your car’s rear bumper. The sensors find if any car is approaching the back of your vehicle in the adjoining trail. The advanced BSM systems use side-mounted cameras.
Once the BSM has detected a car accessing the blind spot, the system warns you. In most cases, the system shows a yellow light as the warning signal on your rearview mirror. It can also be seen on the car’s A-pillar, which is present between the front door and the windshield.
Kia and Honda cars send audible alerts to the driver. It means you will hear a signal, which indicates your vehicle will enter the occupied lane.
How does a BSM system work?
If your vehicle has no BSM, you need to depend on your guesswork. On the contrary, BSM ensures the outboard mirrors are positioned strategically. It serves as the early warning signal for your car. The integrated cameras and the combination of different sensors will track the coming vehicles in the adjoining vehicles. Sensors used for the cars are small round indentations in the fascias or bodywork.
The warning mode is automatically activated when BSM senses the approaching vehicle. Some BSM systems are so refined that they will push your car away from the lane marker on a particular side. You can steer back to the lane’s central part.
BSM getting more advanced
Automotive technologies are evolving continuously to become more advanced. It is also true for the BSM systems of your cars. The more advanced versions of BSM work more efficiently. The brake pressure or the steering system works with it for a better result.
Some full-sized pickup trucks come with the BSM system. For instance, RAM 1500 and Ford F-150 pickup trucks are integrated with this system. So, no matter what brand or car model you have chosen, you can leverage benefits from BSM.
Blind spot assist versus blind spot monitoring- What is the difference?
BSM has multiple variations that have led to a minor difference in features. The blind spot assist is intended to help drivers actively. It involves using the steering system and brakes to prevent collision risks. The assist system, a warning message, and the monitoring system should work together.
Most BSM technologies constantly inspect blind spots and check if any vehicle is in that place. Some systems send an audible message if you turn on the blinker. In case you have shown no response to avoid the crash, the advanced technology will help with crash intervention. That is why you will be safe from the collision.
Factory-installed and after-market BSM
If your car originally has BSM, the manufacturer has installed it in the factory. Built-in BSM has become a trendy feature in most vehicles. The seamless sensors in the factory-installed system ensure effective performance. You will also get a warranty with the factory-installed system.
However, if you have not found this feature while buying the car, you may choose after-market kits. As older vehicles have no BSM, you may purchase it from the eCommerce platforms. Hire the professionals to install the system.
When should you calibrate your vehicle?
Although BSM systems reduce collisions, they cannot prevent every crash. If you have experienced a crash, cameras and radar sensors should be recalibrated. It will enable them to monitor your car’s blind spot. BSM calibration is essential in some situations-
- BSM malfunction
- Failure to send a blind spot warning message
- Reset BSM
- BSM sensor blocked
- Crash warning error
- BSM alert is unavailable temporarily
- The radar is blocked and disabled
Tips for an effective use of BSM
A few tips will help you use the BSM system more efficiently-
- Maintain the cameras– The sensors and cameras must be free from snow, mud, and dust. These elements affect the normal functioning of the system. So, you have to wipe down the sensors and cameras.
- Read the manual– You may read the manufacturers’ instructions to set up the system. Proper installation ensures safe driving.
- Understand the limitations of the system- You must be cautious of the potential limitations of the system. Not all BSM systems work in the same way. Some systems work only at a particular speed. Other systems cannot identify pets and cyclists.
- Depend on your own eyes– Do not rely fully on the BSM; you have to pay attention to the cars behind you.
Conclusion
The Blind Spot Monitoring system is one of the best additions to the built-in car features. If it is not an integrated feature, you can buy it separately. BSM will prevent some collision risks and ensure better driving awareness. The larger vehicles obtain more benefits from the system. As you get an early warning, you will have much time to respond.