How does Subaru Blind-Spot Detection work?

Subaru's Blind-Spot Detection (BSD) uses radar sensors in the rear bumper to monitor vehicles in adjacent lanes and warns you via side-mirror indicators when a car is in your blind spot.

Integrated with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist suite, BSD can be paired with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert on many models. It relies on radar sensing from the rear bumper rather than the windshield camera to track nearby vehicles, and it provides warnings at typical highway speeds while acknowledging limitations in adverse weather or crowded urban environments.

What sensors and how detection works

Before delving into how you’ll notice BSD in action, it helps to understand the core sensing components and the logic they use.

• Two radar sensors sit in the left and right corners of the rear bumper and continuously scan the lanes to your sides for approaching vehicles.


• The sensors assess distance, relative speed, and lane position to determine if a vehicle is occupying your blind spots or moving toward a collision path.


• The system works in concert with Subaru's Eyesight technology and other sensors to validate detections and reduce false warnings.


• Rear Cross-T traffic Alert (RCTA) uses the same sensors to monitor cross-traffic when you’re backing out of a space, sounding alerts if a vehicle approaches from the sides.

BSD relies on radar data to build a picture of nearby traffic behind and to the sides, using that information to decide whether a warning is warranted and which driver-alert modality to deploy.

Warnings and how you’ll know it’s active

BSD communicates with you through visible cues in the mirrors and, in some cases, audible alerts or dashboard indicators depending on the model and settings.

• Visual alert: An amber LED on the corresponding side mirror lights up when a vehicle is detected in the blind spot, remaining on as long as a vehicle poses a potential lane-change risk.


• Lane Change Assist: If you signal toward a side with a detected vehicle, the system may deliver an additional warning (beep or visual cue) to prompt you to reassess before changing lanes.


• Rear Cross-Traffic Alert: When backing up, BSD can alert you to vehicles approaching from the sides, helping you avoid a collision as you reverse.


• Control and customization: In many models, drivers can toggle BSD features on/off or adjust sensitivity through the vehicle’s infotainment or driver-assist settings, though Subaru generally encourages leaving BSD enabled for safety.

These warnings aim to give you extra time to verify blind spots before changing lanes or backing out, especially in busy highways and parking lots.

Practical considerations and limitations

To use BSD effectively, it helps to understand where it shines and where it may fall short.

• Operating conditions: Radar performance can be affected by heavy rain, snow, dense fog, or bumper obstructions, reducing detection reliability.


• Vehicle geometry and traffic: Large vehicles, cargo, or vehicles in adjacent lanes at certain angles may create detection gaps or blind spots beyond the radar’s effective zone.


• Speed range: BSD is most reliable at typical highway and urban speeds; its warnings may be less consistent at very low speeds or in stop-and-go traffic.


• Technology limits: BSD is an aid that complements, not replaces, mirror checks and shoulder checks; drivers should continue to scan and use caution when changing lanes.

Concluding: Treat BSD as an assistive safety feature that enhances awareness, but always perform your own visual checks and adapt to the driving context and conditions.

Maintenance and activation

To ensure BSD remains effective, keep the rear bumper sensors clean and unobstructed, and verify that the feature is enabled in the vehicle’s settings. If you’ve sustained bumper damage or notice degraded warning performance, have the system inspected by a Subaru service professional, as sensor alignment and integrity are crucial for accurate detections.

Summary

Subaru’s Blind-Spot Detection uses rear bumper radar sensors to monitor vehicles in adjacent lanes and trigger side-mirror indicators, with optional Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert on supported models. It’s designed to supplement driver awareness at a range of speeds, but weather, vehicle geometry, and other factors can limit performance. Regular maintenance and cautious driving remain essential to maximizing safety.

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How does a Subaru blind spot work?

Blind spot monitoring systems like Subaru Blind Spot Detection employ a set of sensors including radar and cameras, often positioned on the mirrors and/or rear bumper. These sensors constantly monitor adjacent lanes and nearby objects relative to a driver's designated blind spot zone.

What is the lawsuit against Subaru EyeSight?

A recent Subaru EyeSight class action settlement resolved claims that certain features, like pre-collision braking, could malfunction. Eligible class members may be entitled to benefits including a 75% extended warranty on specific repairs and potential reimbursement for out-of-pocket repair costs. The settlement covers specific model years of Subaru Legacy, Outback, Impreza, Crosstrek, Forester, Ascent, WRX, and BRZ vehicles.
 
What the lawsuit was about

• The lawsuit alleged defects in the EyeSight system's pre-collision braking, reverse automatic braking, and Lane Keep Assist features. 
• These alleged defects could cause the system to brake unexpectedly or fail to activate when necessary. 
• Subaru denied the claims but agreed to a class action settlement. 

Who is eligible

• Current and former owners and lessees of certain Subaru models equipped with the EyeSight system's pre-collision braking, reverse automatic braking, and/or Lane Keep Assist features. 
• Eligible models include specific 2013-2024 Subaru Legacy, 2013-2022 Outback, 2015-2023 Impreza, 2015-2023 Crosstrek, 2014-2021 Forester, 2019-2022 Ascent, 2016-2021 WRX, and 2022-2024 BRZ vehicles. 

Potential settlement benefits

• Warranty extension: The New Vehicle Limited Warranty for the EyeSight system is extended to cover 75% of the cost of certain repairs for up to four years or 48,000 miles, whichever comes first. 
• Reimbursement: Eligible class members who paid for covered repairs can receive 75% reimbursement for one repair. 
• To qualify for reimbursement, you must provide proof of payment and other documentation . 

How to file a claim

• You can find the claim form and more information on the official settlement website: Subaru EyeSight Settlement. 
• The deadline for filing a claim was September 27, 2025. 
• The court approved the final settlement on April 21, 2025. 

At what speed does Subaru EyeSight work?

Traveling under 19 mph, the EyeSight™ is capable of detecting pedestrians in the path of the vehicle and if detected the system will activate in order to mitigate or avoid collision.