How to turn on blind spot monitor Ford?
Turn on BLIS by using a dedicated switch on the dash or by enabling it in the vehicle’s settings. In most Ford models, flip the BLIS switch to ON or go to Settings > Driver Assist to enable Blind Spot Information System. When active, you’ll see amber indicators in the exterior mirrors if a vehicle is in your blind spot.
BLIS uses radar sensors to monitor adjacent lanes and alert you to vehicles that enter your blind spots. The exact steps can vary by model year and trim, so this guide covers common methods and provides model-specific notes where relevant.
Where BLIS is found and how it generally behaves
Ford places BLIS controls in one of two ways: a physical switch on the dash or steering area, or a software setting inside the instrument cluster or infotainment system. The system is designed to provide warnings when you signal to change lanes if another vehicle is detected in your blind spot. Mirror indicators typically light up amber to warn you, and some configurations also offer a chime or message in the gauge cluster.
Enable BLIS using a physical switch
Use these steps if your Ford has a dedicated BLIS switch on the dash or near the steering column.
- Locate the BLIS switch, usually on the lower left side of the dashboard near the headlight control, or integrated into the instrument panel. The switch is labeled with the BLIS icon (two cars with radar waves).
- Press or toggle the switch to ON. A confirmation light or indicator on the dash or mirror may show that BLIS is active.
- Start or drive the vehicle and monitor the exterior mirrors. When a vehicle enters your blind spot, an amber alert should appear on the corresponding mirror.
- If you see a light or message indicating BLIS is Off, flip the switch back to ON and recheck.
Activating BLIS with the physical switch generally enables the system for all driving scenarios, though some models may require the vehicle to reach a certain speed before full functionality engages.
Enable BLIS via the infotainment or instrument cluster
Some newer Ford configurations allow you to enable BLIS from the touchscreen or instrument cluster settings rather than a physical button.
- With the vehicle on, open Settings from the infotainment screen or the instrument cluster menu.
- Navigate to Driver Assist, Blind Spot Information System, or a similarly named option.
- Toggle BLIS to On. Exit the menu; the system should become active while driving.
- In certain trims, you may also need to enable related features such as Cross Traffic Alert for full benefits.
After enabling via settings, you should see the BLIS indicators on your side mirrors when a car occupies your blind spots.
Model-specific notes
BLIS availability and the exact enabling steps can vary by model year and trim. Many recent Ford models provide a dedicated BLIS switch or allow enabling through Vehicle/Driver Assist settings. If you’re unsure which method your vehicle uses, consult the owner’s manual for your exact model and year or contact a Ford dealer for model-specific guidance.
Tips and quick checks
Use these tips to ensure BLIS operates reliably and to verify it’s active after enabling it.
- Check that the BLIS control (physical switch) is in the ON position or that the setting is enabled in the system menu. Look for an indicator light or confirmation message.
- Inspect the exterior mirrors for amber blind-spot indicators when other vehicles are present in adjacent lanes.
- Keep sensor areas clean and unobstructed. Dirt, snow, or ice can affect sensor performance.
- Understand BLIS is a warning system, not a collision avoidance system. Always check mirrors and surroundings before changing lanes.
If BLIS does not seem to activate after following these steps, a visit to a Ford service center can help verify sensor operation or reset the system if needed.
Summary
To turn on Ford’s Blind Spot Information System, use either the dedicated BLIS switch on the dash or enable it through the vehicle’s Driver Assist or Blind Spot Information settings in the infotainment or instrument cluster. Once active, BLIS provides visual alerts on the side mirrors when a vehicle sits in your blind spot, helping you make safer lane changes. Always consult your owner’s manual for model-specific instructions and limitations.
