Does the Ford Explorer have blind spot monitoring?
Yes. The Ford Explorer includes Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with Cross-Traffic Alert as part of Ford's Co-Pilot360 driver-assist suite. Availability varies by year and trim, but it is standard on many trims and widely offered across the lineup.
BLIS monitors the areas alongside your vehicle for other cars entering your blind spots and provides visual alerts in the side mirrors, plus cross-traffic warnings when backing up. The exact configuration can differ by model year and trim, so check the specific features for your Explorer or the window sticker.
What BLIS is and how it works
BLIS uses sensors to monitor traffic in adjacent lanes and reinforces driver awareness with dashboard or mirror indicators. Cross-Traffic Alert adds warnings if traffic approaches from the side when you're backing out of a parking spot or driveway, helping to prevent collisions.
Key features you can expect with BLIS in the Explorer include:
- Visual indicators in the side mirrors when a vehicle is detected in your blind spots on either side.
- Cross-Traffic Alert that sounds warnings and displays on the instrument cluster when backing out of a space.
- Automatic activation at appropriate speeds, with the ability to toggle the system on or off in the vehicle settings or via a switch on the dash in some trims.
In short, BLIS provides ongoing awareness of vehicles in adjacent lanes and alerts when backing up, complementing driver attention. The exact behavior can vary by model year and trim and by whether the system is enabled.
Availability across trims and model years
Across recent Explorer model years, BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert is widely available, but its inclusion depends on trim and optional packages.
- Base or entry trims: BLIS may be offered only when bundled with the Co-Pilot360 package or as part of an optional safety package.
- Mid-to-high trims (such as XLT, Limited, ST, Platinum): BLIS with Cross-Traffic Alert is typically standard or included as part of standard safety packages.
- Special editions or off-road variants: BLIS is commonly included as part of the standard safety feature set on these configurations.
Because features and packages change with model years, always verify via the window sticker or Ford's official product page for the exact year you're considering.
How to verify BLIS on your Explorer
To confirm BLIS on a specific vehicle, you can:
- Check the window sticker for “BLIS” or “Blind Spot Information System” and “Cross-Traffic Alert.”
- Look for a BLIS toggle switch on the dashboard or steering column; when enabled, you should see amber indicator lights in the corresponding side mirrors when a vehicle is in your blind spot.
- Consult the owner’s manual or contact a Ford dealership or Ford customer support for the exact feature set on a given model year and trim.
If you’re shopping used, ask to see the feature list or have the VIN checked to confirm BLIS is included on that specific vehicle.
Summary
The Ford Explorer generally features Blind Spot Information System with Cross-Traffic Alert as part of Ford’s Co-Pilot360 safety suite. Its presence varies by trim and model year, but it is commonly standard on mid-to-high trims and available on base models through optional packages. Prospective buyers and owners should verify the exact feature set for their year and trim via the window sticker or official Ford materials.
