Can You Add Blind Spot Monitoring to Your Car?

OEM and Aftermarket BSM

Blind spot monitoring (BSM) is a safety feature that has become increasingly common in newer cars. It can help to prevent lane change accidents by alerting drivers to vehicles in their blind spots. But what if your car doesn’t have BSM? Can you do it yourself?

The answer is yes, in most cases you can add blind spot monitoring to your car.

OEM Blind Spot Monitoring Upgrades

Upgrading your car to OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) blind spot monitoring can significantly improve safety. These systems use radar or cameras to detect vehicles in your blind spots and typically alert you with a visual indicator in your side mirror or an audible warning.

Here are some of the benefits of upgrading to OEM blind spot monitoring:

• Enhanced safety: Blind spot monitoring can help you avoid lane change collisions, which are a common type of accident.
• Improved driver confidence: Knowing that you have a system monitoring your blind spots can give you more confidence behind the wheel.
• Seamless integration: OEM systems are designed to work specifically with your car, so they should integrate seamlessly with your existing dashboard and electronics.

OEM Blind Spot Monitoring Options

We have a variety of OEM blind spot monitoring systems available, here are a few popular brands to consider:

• Jeep Wrangler 2018-2024
• Jeep Gladiator 2020-2024
• Ram Truck 1500 2019-2024
• Ram Tuck 2500-3500 2019-2022

Aftermarket Blind Spot Monitoring Systems

There are two main types of aftermarket BSM systems:

• Sensor-based systems: These systems use ultrasonic sensors mounted on the rear of the car to detect vehicles in your blind spots. When a vehicle is detected, the system will typically alert you with an LED light in your side mirror or a beep from inside the car.
• Camera-based systems: These systems use a small camera mounted on the side of the car to detect vehicles in your blind spots. The camera feed is then displayed on your dashboard or in your rearview mirror.

Both types of systems have their pros and cons. Sensor-based systems are typically less expensive and easier to install, but they may not be as accurate as camera-based systems. Camera-based systems can provide a clearer view of what’s in your blind spot, but they can be more expensive and difficult to install.

Here are some things to consider when deciding if you want to add blind spot monitoring to your car:

• Your budget: Sensor-based systems typically cost between $50 and $100, while camera-based systems can cost upwards of $300.
• Your DIY skills: Sensor-based systems are generally easier to install than camera-based systems. If you’re not comfortable working on your car, you may want to have a professional install the system for you.
• Your car’s features: Some cars have pre-wiring for blind spot monitoring, which can make installation easier. Check your car’s manual to see if it has this feature.

Aftermarket Blind Spot Monitoring Options

There are a variety of aftermarket blind spot monitoring systems available, here are a few popular options to consider:

• Rexing M2 Smart Mirror Dash Cam with BSD ADAS: This system combines a blind spot monitoring system with a dash cam. It uses radar sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spots and alerts you with an LED light and an audible beep. The dash cam feature provides a front and rear view of the road, and can be helpful for capturing footage of accidents or other incidents.
• Crimestopper SafetyPlus Universal Front & Rear Blind Spot Detection System: This sensor-based system uses four sensors to cover all four corners of your vehicle. It is a relatively affordable option and is easy to install.
• Blind Spot Sensor System: This system uses radar sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spots and alerts you with an LED light in your side mirror. It has a high user rating but can be on the pricier side.
• Pyle Ultrasonic Blind Spot Detection System: This is a budget-friendly sensor-based system that uses ultrasonic sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spots. It is a good option for drivers who are looking for a basic and affordable blind spot monitoring solution.
• TadiBrothers Ultra Sonic Blind Spot Detection System: This is another budget-friendly sensor-based system that is easy to install.

Installation Considerations

If you decide to install an blind spot monitoring system yourself, be sure to carefully read the instructions that come with the system. You will also need to purchase some additional tools, such as a drill and a wire cutter.

Here are some general steps involved in installing a sensor-based blind spot monitoring system:

1. Mount the sensors on the rear of your car. The sensors should be mounted near the corners of your bumper, out of the way of any exhaust pipes or other obstacles.
2. Route the wires from the sensors to the inside of your car. You may need to drill a small hole in the firewall in order to route the wires from the sensors to the control unit.
3. Install the control unit. The control unit is typically mounted under the dashboard.
4. Install the LED lights or other warning indicators. The LED lights are typically mounted on the inside of your side mirrors.
5. Connect the wires from the sensors and the control unit to the power supply in your car.

Installing a camera-based system is a more complex process and is typically best left to a professional but we have provided a walkthrough at the end of this blog of us installing one in a Jeep Gladiator.

Benefits of Blind Spot Monitoring

Blind spot monitoring (BSM) has become a game-changer in car safety, offering an extra layer of protection on the road. Those areas we can’t see directly through our mirrors can be a breeding ground for accidents, but BSM steps in to mitigate this risk. Let’s delve into the benefits of having blind spot monitoring in your car:

1. Reduced Lane Change Collisions: This is undoubtedly the most significant advantage. Blind spots are particularly dangerous during lane changes, as a vehicle might be lurking right where you can’t see it. BSM acts as an early warning system, detecting vehicles in your blind spots and alerting you with a visual or audible signal. This allows you to make informed decisions about changing lanes and avoid potential collisions. Studies by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) suggest BSM can reduce lane change crashes by up to 14%.

2. Enhanced Driver Confidence: Knowing you have a system actively monitoring your blind spots can significantly boost your confidence behind the wheel. This is particularly valuable for new drivers or those who navigate heavy traffic conditions regularly. The peace of mind BSM offers allows drivers to focus more on the overall driving experience rather than constantly worrying about what’s out of sight.

3. Improved All-Around Awareness: While mirrors are crucial, they have limitations. BSM complements your visual checks by providing a wider range of awareness. This is especially helpful on multi-lane highways or when maneuvering in tight spaces like parking lots. BSM can detect vehicles approaching from behind or alongside you, even motorcycles that might be harder to spot in mirrors.

4. Increased Safety for Vulnerable Road Users: Blind spots can pose a particular threat to vulnerable road users like cyclists and pedestrians. BSM can help detect these smaller objects, prompting drivers to exercise extra caution when turning or changing lanes. This can significantly contribute to creating a safer environment for everyone on the road.

5. Potential Insurance Discounts: Some insurance companies may offer discounts to drivers whose cars are equipped with BSM. This is because BSM can demonstrably reduce the likelihood of accidents, leading to lower insurance costs for drivers and companies alike.

In Conclusion: Blind spot monitoring is a valuable safety feature that can significantly enhance your driving experience. By providing early warnings about vehicles in your blind spots, BSM can help prevent accidents, boost confidence, and promote a safer driving environment for everyone. While not a substitute for safe driving practices like proper mirrors checks and shoulder checks, BSM adds another layer of protection, making it a worthwhile investment for any car.

Blind Spot Monitoring Installation Video