Can you add blind spot monitoring?
Yes — you can generally add blind spot monitoring to a car, though the path, cost, and reliability depend on the model and whether newer equipment is compatible.
How Blind Spot Monitoring Works
Blind spot monitoring (BSM) uses sensors—typically radar units near the rear corners or cameras in the vehicle’s lighting or bumper—to detect vehicles that enter your outboard lanes. When a car occupies a sensor’s detection zone, the system alerts you through indicator lights in the side mirrors, a dash notification, or an audible alert. Some setups also include cross-traffic alert, which helps when reversing out of a parking space. Proper mounting and calibration are essential for accuracy and to avoid false warnings.
Two Main Paths to Add BSM
There are two primary routes to add blind spot monitoring: an official OEM upgrade from the manufacturer or an aftermarket kit. Each path has its own requirements and implications for compatibility, warranty, and performance.
- OEM upgrade options: These are factory- or dealer-installed packages designed to integrate with your car’s existing electronics and displays. Availability depends on the model/year, and installation often occurs at a dealership or authorized service center. The upgrade may require new hardware (such as radar sensors or updated mirrors) and can preserve or extend warranty coverage.
- Aftermarket BSM kits: These are third-party systems that you install yourself or have installed by a shop. They can be more affordable and suit older models, but compatibility, calibration, and how well they integrate with your car’s safety features vary by kit. Quality and reliability depend on the brand and the installer.
Overall, OEM upgrades tend to offer smoother integration and stronger warranty coverage, while aftermarket options can expand compatibility to older or less common models, often with lower upfront costs.
OEM BSM: What to Expect
Choosing an OEM pathway typically yields a seamless user experience and tighter integration with existing safety systems. Here are common expectations when pursuing an OEM upgrade.
- Integrated installation: Hardware and software are designed to work with your vehicle, often requiring a dealer visit.
- Warranty and support: OEM upgrades generally maintain factory warranty considerations for the BSM feature.
- Calibration and testing: The system is calibrated to your specific vehicle during installation to ensure accuracy and minimize false alerts.
- Feature compatibility: BSM often works in concert with other safety features like lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alerts.
OEM upgrades provide smoother operation and reliability, but availability is limited to certain models and trims, and the total cost can be higher than aftermarket alternatives.
Aftermarket BSM Kits: Pros, Cons, and Caveats
For drivers seeking options beyond OEM availability or aiming for a lower upfront price, aftermarket kits offer an alternative. Consider these points before purchasing.
- Pros: Often lower upfront costs, broader model coverage (includingOlder vehicles), and potential for quicker local installation.
- Cons: Varying compatibility, calibration requirements, and possible conflicts with existing safety systems or vehicle wiring. Some kits may not preserve factory warranty.
- What to look for: A kit specifically designed for automotive use, clear installation and calibration steps, and access to customer support or a warranty from the manufacturer.
Despite potential savings, the success and safety of aftermarket BSM depend heavily on proper installation and precise calibration. It’s prudent to use a qualified technician and to verify that the kit aligns with your vehicle’s specifications.
Installation Considerations
Because blind spot monitoring is a safety-critical feature, professional installation and accurate calibration are strongly recommended. Improper mounting, misalignment, or incorrect integration with CAN bus systems can lead to unreliable alerts or interference with other electronics.
What You Should Do Next
To move forward, follow these practical steps to maximize safety and performance.
- Check your vehicle’s compatibility with an OEM upgrade and review whether your model/year supports aftermarket options.
- Decide between an OEM upgrade and an aftermarket kit based on warranty considerations, cost, and desired feature set.
- Obtain quotes from qualified installers and ask about calibration procedures and the inclusion of a calibration certificate or documentation.
- Ensure the installer tests the system in real driving conditions and explains how to recognize and respond to alerts.
With careful planning and professional installation, adding blind spot monitoring can enhance safety and driving confidence without compromising your vehicle’s existing systems.
Summary
Blind spot monitoring can be added to many vehicles via OEM upgrades or aftermarket kits. OEM options tend to deliver smoother integration and warranty alignment but may be limited to specific models and come with higher costs. Aftermarket kits offer broader compatibility and often lower upfront prices, yet require careful selection, professional installation, and thorough calibration to ensure reliability. Start by confirming compatibility with your car and consulting with a trusted installer to determine the best path for your needs.
