Is blind spot monitor standard?
No universal standard. Blind spot monitoring is not mandated across all new cars; its availability depends on the brand, model, trim level, and market. In many cases, it's standard on higher trims or as part of safety packages, while base trims may offer it as an option or not at all.
This article explains how blind spot monitoring is typically offered, when you can expect it to be standard, how to verify its presence in a specific vehicle, and what you can do if your car doesn't include it by default.
What is a Blind Spot Monitor and why it matters
A blind spot monitor uses radar or camera sensors to watch areas to the sides and rear of your vehicle that you cannot see directly. When another vehicle enters that zone, the system alerts the driver—often with a light in the side mirror and sometimes an audible warning. Some versions also provide rear cross-traffic alerts when backing up, helping prevent collisions in busy traffic and parking lots.
How it works
Most systems activate at highway speeds and during lane changes, using sensors to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes. Alerts typically appear as a highlighted indicator in the corresponding mirror; some setups add audible cues or vibration feedback through the steering wheel.
Limitations and tips
BSM is helpful but not foolproof. Alerts can be suppressed in heavy rain, when sensors are dirty, or if a vehicle is in an unusual position. Drivers should still use mirrors and shoulder checks, especially in complex traffic or intersections.
Is it standard across all vehicles? The industry landscape
As safety technology evolves, blind spot monitoring is appearing more widely, but there is no universal rule. Availability varies by region, make, model, and trim. Some brands make BSM standard on nearly all new models; others reserve it for mid- to high-level trims or require a safety package. In some markets, regulatory expectations influence how quickly BSM becomes a baseline feature.
Below is a general pattern you’ll see in the market today:
- Base or entry-level trims: BSM is often not standard; it may be offered only as a pricey option or not available at all.
- Mid-range and higher trims: BSM is frequently included as standard or as part of a safety or driver-assistance package.
- Packages and bundles: Some brands offer BSM bundled with features like Lane Change Assist or Rear Cross-Traffic Alert in a Safety Package.
- Brand and model differences: Availability can vary widely by brand, with some manufacturers making BSM standard across most models and others gating it behind specific trims or optional packages.
Conclusion: There is no universal rule; check the exact configuration for the vehicle you’re considering to know whether BSM is included.
How to determine if a specific vehicle has BSM
To confirm whether a particular car has Blind Spot Monitoring, use these verification steps with official sources or a dealership.
- Check the official brochure or the vehicle’s build sheet for the exact trim and the list of standard features.
- Review the window sticker (Monroney label) or the manufacturer’s website for safety feature details.
- Ask the dealer to display the BSM feature in the car’s feature list or demonstrate it during a test drive.
- Consult the owner’s manual under Safety or Driver Assistance to see if BSM is described and activated.
- During a test drive, observe the indicator when another car enters the blind spot via the side mirror or dash notification.
Conclusion: If you can’t verify via official documentation, ask the dealer to enable the feature or consider a different trim that clearly includes it.
What to do if BSM isn't standard
If Blind Spot Monitoring isn’t included by default, you may still have options to add it:
- Check whether a safety package or a Premium Driver Assistance package includes BSM; sometimes it’s bundled with other features.
- Ask about factory-ordered configurations or dealer-installed upgrades that add BSM; not all brands offer this, and adding features may affect warranties or support.
- Consider legitimate aftermarket solutions that provide blind-spot warnings, but verify compatibility with your vehicle’s systems and warranty terms, and have installation performed by a professional.
- If BSM is not available, consider alternatives like rear cross-traffic alerts or enhanced parking sensors that improve awareness of adjacent vehicles.
Conclusion: You don’t have to compromise safety; explore every option, including packages, dealership configurators, or reputable aftermarket solutions, while keeping warranty considerations in mind.
Summary
Blind Spot Monitoring is not universally standard across all new vehicles. Availability depends on brand, model, trim level, and market. In practice, you’re more likely to find BSM included on mid-range and higher trims or as part of a safety package, while base models may require an upgrade. To confirm for a specific car, consult the brochure, window sticker, dealer, and owner’s manual, and consider regional safety regulations as a factor. When shopping, prioritize models with clear, documented BSM inclusion to simplify comparisons and planning.
What year did cars have blind spot monitoring?
This system was first introduced on the 2001 Volvo SCC concept car, then placed into production on the 2003 Volvo XC90 SUV and produced a visible alert when a car entered the blind spot while a driver was switching lanes, using cameras and radar sensors mounted on the door mirror housings to check the blind spot area ...
Is blind spot detection standard?
These are just a few of the required safety features required for standard vehicles. There are other features like adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection, lane departure warnings, and collision warning systems that you can find standard in new vehicles.
How much does it cost to get a Blind Spot Monitor installed?
The total cost to have a blind spot monitor installed by a professional ranges from $450 to over $1,000, including parts and labor. The cost depends on the kit's complexity and your vehicle, with the system itself costing $250 to $500 and installation typically adding another $200 to $500. You can find less expensive kits for under $300, but they may have lower accuracy than higher-end systems.
Cost breakdown
- System Kit: $250–$500 for mid-range systems, with some costing as little as $75 and high-end options going for $500 or more.
- Professional Installation: $200–$500. This can vary based on the system's complexity and how easily it can be integrated with your specific vehicle.
- Total: The combined cost for a professionally installed aftermarket blind spot monitoring system typically falls between $450 and $1,000.
Factors that influence the price
- System Type: Camera-based systems are generally more expensive than those using only sensors.
- Features: More advanced systems may include additional features like rear cross-traffic alerts, which can increase the price.
- Vehicle Compatibility: Some vehicles may have pre-wiring that makes installation easier and cheaper, while others may require more complex work.
- DIY vs. Professional: While you can buy kits for as low as $75, professional installation is recommended for a proper and safe setup, adding to the total cost.
Do all new cars come with blind spot monitoring?
Since then, blind-spot monitoring has become widely available. For the 2022 model year, nearly all new vehicles either include it as a standard feature or offer it as an option. Does Blind Spot Monitoring Increase Safety? This driver-assistance feature can make a big difference when it comes to safety.
