What is the blind spot information system on the Acura?
What the system does
The following points describe the core functions of BSI, how it signals its findings, and how it complements driver awareness.
- Radar sensors positioned near the rear corners of the vehicle monitor traffic in lanes alongside you for vehicles entering your blind spots.
- When a vehicle is detected in your blind spot while you indicate a lane change, the system provides a visual alert in the corresponding side mirror and may emit an audible alert on some models.
- The side mirror indicator typically appears as an amber warning light, helping you decide whether to proceed with the lane change.
- Cross Traffic Monitor, often part of AcuraWatch, uses additional sensors to detect oncoming traffic from the sides when you’re reversing out of a space.
- Activation and control: BSI generally operates automatically once the vehicle is on, but some models allow you to turn it off or adjust sensitivity through the vehicle’s settings or the stalk/menu system.
In short, BSI is designed to augment your situational awareness during lane changes and backing maneuvers, though its availability and exact behavior can vary by model and year.
Where you’ll find it in Acura vehicles
The feature is widely available as part of the AcuraWatch safety package or as an option on many trims. Availability can differ by model year and market, so buyers should check the specific vehicle’s equipment list or owner’s manual.
- MDX — commonly included as part of AcuraWatch on higher trims or as an option on mid-range trims in recent years.
- RDX — frequently offered with BSI and Cross Traffic Monitor as part of the standard or optional safety package depending on trim and year.
- TLX — often bundled with AcuraWatch, with BSI available across multiple trims in modern generations.
- ILX and older models — earlier iterations may have offered BSI as an option or through packages; newer models focus on AcuraWatch integration.
Because feature sets shift between model years and markets, buyers should verify the exact equipment on a given vehicle. The owner’s manual or a dealer’s spec sheet provides the definitive answer for a specific car.
How to use BSI effectively
Use these best practices to make the most of Acura’s Blind Spot Information System while staying attentive on the road.
- Ensure BSI is active when you’re driving in traffic that frequently changes lanes; activate or deactivate only if your model requires it for a specific situation.
- Adjust your side mirrors properly so the BSI indicator aligns with your natural line of sight; do not rely on it exclusively.
- Always perform a manual shoulder check before changing lanes, especially in heavy traffic or on highways where motorcycles and bikes may be present.
- Be mindful that weather, road conditions, and sensor cleanliness can affect detection; keep sensors and camera areas clean and free of obstructions.
- If Cross Traffic Monitor is available, use it when backing out of parking spaces where visibility to cross traffic is limited.
Overall, BSI enhances safety by providing timely warnings, but it should be used as a supplementary aid rather than a substitute for driver vigilance.
Limitations and safety reminders
While helpful, the Blind Spot Information System has limitations that drivers should be aware of. The following points outline common constraints and how to address them.
- BSI may not detect all nearby vehicles, particularly in heavy rain, fog, or when vehicles are riding close to the sensor’s detection range.
- Small or fast-moving objects (like motorcycles) can sometimes be harder to detect depending on speed, angle, and lane position.
- In some situations, the system might briefly warn you about a vehicle that is transitioning between lanes or changing speed; interpret alerts as advisory rather than a guarantee of safety.
- Ambient conditions, dirt on sensors, or icing can degrade performance; routine maintenance and cleaning help preserve function.
- BSI is not a substitute for mirrors, head checks, or safe driving practices; always monitor the road actively.
Understanding these limitations helps drivers use BSI more effectively and maintain safe driving habits across varying conditions.
Summary
Acura’s Blind Spot Information System (BSI) is a radar-based safety feature designed to monitor adjacent lanes and alert drivers when a vehicle occupies a blind spot. Often bundled with AcuraWatch and, on many models, paired with Cross Traffic Monitor, BSI aims to complement driver awareness during lane changes and backing maneuvers. Availability and exact operation vary by model year and trim, so consult the owner’s manual or a dealership for model-specific details. Used properly, BSI can enhance situational awareness without replacing vigilant driving.
