How to turn on blind spot detection on Ford Escape?
BLIS, Ford’s Blind Spot Information System, can be activated on most Escape models either with a dash-mounted switch or through the vehicle’s settings menu. The system helps alert you to vehicles in your blind spots and is part of Ford Co-Pilot360 on many recent trims.
Ways to enable BLIS
Using the dash-mounted BLIS switch
The quickest way to enable BLIS is by using the switch located on the lower left side of the dashboard, near the headlight controls. This method works across many recent Escape models regardless of trim level.
- Locate the BLIS button on the lower left dash near the headlight control switch.
- Press the BLIS button to toggle the system ON. You should see an indicator in the vehicle’s information display confirming that BLIS is active.
- While BLIS is ON, the corresponding side mirror will illuminate an alert when a vehicle enters your blind spot.
- If you press the button again, BLIS will turn OFF; repeat to re‑enable as needed.
Enabling BLIS via the dash switch is a straightforward method that works independent of the vehicle’s onboard display language or touchscreen.
Using the vehicle's Settings menu
Some Escape models—with larger infotainment screens or newer software—allow you to enable BLIS from the driver‑assist settings in the cluster or touchscreen menus. This method is useful if the dash switch is not easily accessible or if you prefer centralized control.
- Turn on the ignition or start the engine so the information display is active.
- Access the settings menu on the instrument cluster or the Ford SYNC touchscreen.
- Navigate to Driver Assist or Blind Spot Information (BLIS) settings.
- Toggle BLIS to ON. You may also see related options such as Cross-Traffic Alert; enable these if desired.
- Exit the menu and verify that the BLIS indicators appear in your side mirrors when cars occupy the blind spots.
Using the Settings menu lets you confirm BLIS status and adjust related alerts in a centralized location, which can be helpful on newer models with updated software.
Verification and troubleshooting
After enabling BLIS, verify the system is active and understand common factors that can affect performance.
- Look for the side-mirror indicators lighting up when a vehicle is in the blind spot. If nothing appears, BLIS may be OFF or the sensors could be blocked.
- Make sure the vehicle is in a normal driving mode and that you’re not in a setting where driver-assist features are restricted (some off-road or sport modes can impact sensor behavior).
- Check for dirt, water, or ice on the outside mirrors or behind the windows that could block sensor input. Clean as needed.
- If BLIS still does not illuminate when a vehicle is in the blind spot, consult the owner’s manual or contact a Ford dealer, as there may be a sensor fault or software update required.
Proper verification helps ensure you’re receiving timely alerts from BLIS while driving, contributing to safer lane changes.
Summary
To activate Blind Spot Information System on a Ford Escape, you can use the dash-mounted BLIS switch or enable it through the settings menu on the instrument cluster or touchscreen, depending on the model year and trim. Verify that the side-mirror indicators illuminate when a vehicle enters your blind spots, and keep the sensors clean for optimal performance. If BLIS does not engage, consult the owner’s manual or a Ford dealer for assistance.
