Blind spot monitoring: What is it?

A guide to blind spot monitoring systems

Allowing you to drive safely and comfortably, a blind spot monitoring system can take the strain off the driver and help avoid major accidents

All vehicles have blind spots.

And changing lanes can be dangerous, especially when driving at high speeds on the motorway or if you’re not a confident driver.

Failing to see a vehicle approaching rapidly from behind in the right-hand lane can easily be done.

There’s nothing quite like an old-fashioned glance over the shoulder to check if a car is coming, but there are always risks that come with taking your eyes off the road ahead. If you suffer from back or neck problems, you may also find this difficult.

Blind-spot monitoring can help watch your back when changing lanes.

Let’s take a closer look at what blind-spot monitoring is, how it works and if it’s worth having for your next car lease.

What is blind spot monitoring?

Blind spot monitoring reduces the risk of accidents by monitoring your blind spot areas and detecting fast-approaching vehicles.

The system can then alert the driver and sometimes even assist the driver to avoid a collision.

How does blind spot monitoring work?

Blind spot monitoring systems use either radar sensors, located on the sides of the rear bumper or a rear-mounted camera.

They monitor the areas behind and next to your car and detect when a car enters your blind spot.

When a car is detected, a red or amber light usually lights up on the corresponding side mirror and some systems emit a warning beep as well.

Some cars will have active blind spot aids too, such as steering intervention. If you do start to move into a lane with a car in your blind spot the system will take control of your steering wheel to prevent a collision.

Braking intervention uses the brakes on one side of your car to change direction or uses all your brakes to slow the car down and avoid a collision.

Is a blind spot monitoring system worth it?

Adding a valuable extra layer of protection for drivers, blind spot monitoring is a useful feature and can help keep you safe on the roads.

The safety feature shouldn’t be used as a replacement for using the interior and exterior mirrors or looking over your shoulders before changing lanes.

It’s great to use as a helping hand but shouldn’t be relied on wholly as it may not detect every vehicle or object around you.

Cars with a blind spot monitoring system is becoming increasingly common and is readily available in most lease cars. It’s available as standard in popular models such as the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, the BMW i4 and the Tesla Model Y. 

What do different manufacturers call their blind spot monitoring systems?

• BMW: Active Blind Spot Detection
• Mercedes-Benz/Jaguar: Blind Spot Assist
• Ford/Honda/Polestar/Volvo: Blind Spot Information System
• Tesla/MG Motor UK/SEAT: Blind Spot Detection
• SKODA: Blind Spot Detect
• Fiat/Jeep/Porsche/Toyota: Blind Spot Monitoring
• Audi/CUPRA: Side Assist
• Hyundai: Blind Spot View
• Nissan/Renault/Vauxhall: Blind Spot Warning
• Peugeot: Active Blind Spot Monitoring
• Volkswagen: Blind Spot Monitor