Why did Honda remove blind-spot monitoring?
In short, Honda has not broadly eliminated blind-spot monitoring across its lineup. Reports of removal usually reflect market- or trim-specific changes, or confusion with related features like LaneWatch. The availability of blind-spot monitoring varies by model year, region, and the equipment package chosen.
What blind-spot monitoring is and how Honda uses it
Blind-spot monitoring (BSM) uses radar sensors to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes and alerts the driver, typically with visual indicators in the mirrors or on the dashboard. Honda generally includes BSM as part of its Honda Sensing safety suite, a bundle of driver-assistance features. In some older or regional configurations, Honda also offered LaneWatch, a camera-based blind-spot display on certain models. The two systems serve a similar purpose but use different technologies and display methods.
BSM vs. LaneWatch
BSM and LaneWatch historically competed for attention as the primary blind-spot awareness tool. BSM relies on radar and provides warnings in the instrument cluster or side mirrors, while LaneWatch uses a live camera feed shown on the infotainment screen. In recent years, Honda has shifted toward consolidating features under Honda Sensing with BSM as the common standard in many markets, while LaneWatch remains available only on select configurations where still offered by the manufacturer.
Why it might seem removed: market, model-year, and packaging factors
Several factors can make a vehicle appear to lack blind-spot monitoring, even when Honda still offers it on other trims or markets. Below are common scenarios that readers and shoppers encounter.
- Packaging and trim decisions meant to control cost: Some base or entry trims may omit BSM to keep the price lower, with the feature returning on higher trims or as part of a safety package.
- Regional differences in safety specifications: Availability can vary between the United States, Europe, Japan, and other regions due to local regulations, safety standards, or market demand.
- Shifts between LaneWatch and BSM: Certain older or region-specific models emphasized LaneWatch and later transitioned to BSM, leading to confusion when the older configuration appears on used or in-market listings.
- Model-year refresh cycles and package realignments: During mid-cycle updates, Honda may adjust what’s included in standard versus optional equipment, temporarily affecting perceived availability.
- Supply constraints or production changes: Global shortages of sensors or related hardware can influence feature availability on specific production batches or regional shipments.
- Terminology and feature labeling: Some owners may look for “Blind Spot Monitoring” by name, while dealers or brochures might describe the same capability under Honda Sensing or a different phrasing, creating the impression of a removal.
In summary, there isn’t a universal pullback on blind-spot monitoring across Honda’s entire lineup. Availability tends to be tied to trim level, region, and the specific safety package chosen. When a customer experiences a missing BSM feature, it’s typically tied to one of the factors above rather than a company-wide decision to drop the feature.
How to verify blind-spot monitoring on a specific Honda model
If you’re shopping or reviewing a used model, use these steps to confirm whether BSM is included on a particular vehicle, trim, or market.
- Check the official specifications for the exact model year and trim on Honda’s website or the official brochure for your market.
- Look for mentions of Blind Spot Information System (BSI/BSM) or Honda Sensing within the features list.
- Review the window sticker or the dealer’s build sheet (VIN-specific) to confirm whether BSM is included in that specific vehicle.
- Ask the dealer to pull the vehicle’s build data or decode the VIN to verify feature inclusion.
- Consult the owner’s manual for the vehicle’s blind-spot monitoring section to confirm how the system should operate and be indicated.
Confirming through official sources and the exact vehicle’s documentation will help avoid confusion between different safety features and display methods.
Summary
Honda’s approach to blind-spot monitoring has not involved a broad, company-wide removal. Availability depends on trim level, regional market, and whether the model uses BSM as part of Honda Sensing or relies on alternatives such as LaneWatch. For consumers, the best practice is to verify feature inclusion on the exact vehicle in question via official specifications, the VIN/build sheet, and the owner’s manual. As technology and safety packages evolve, Honda continues to emphasize driver assistance, but the exact feature set can vary by market and model year.
Why did Honda stop the blind spot camera?
They are short on supply for Blind Spot, so they removed it from standard production and adjusted the MSRP. You can still get it, but will need request it and wait for the parts to come in. Which may or may not happen by 2024 production begins.
Why is Honda discontinuing The Insight?
The Honda Insight was discontinued due to a strategic shift to focus on hybrid versions of its core models, like the Civic and CR-V, and changing customer preferences. By discontinuing the standalone Insight, Honda could streamline its hybrid lineup and increase production volume for its more popular and mainstream hybrid offerings.
Here are the key reasons for the discontinuation:
- Focus on core models: Honda decided to concentrate on hybrid versions of its most popular models, such as the Civic and CR-V, rather than a dedicated hybrid model. The Insight was replaced by a new Civic Hybrid.
- Streamlined hybrid lineup: The move was part of a larger strategy to make hybrid technology more accessible and to simplify the brand's product offerings.
- Changing customer preferences: Customer preferences were shifting towards more fuel-efficient SUVs and away from a dedicated hybrid sedan like the Insight.
- Low sales relative to other models: The Insight sold in much smaller numbers compared to models like the Civic, making it less economically viable to continue producing as a standalone model.
- Opportunity to increase hybrid volume: By making the Civic and Accord hybrid, Honda expects these models to represent a much larger portion of their sales mix, helping them meet their electrification goals.
What did Honda replace LaneWatch with?
Blind Spot Monitoring
While Honda LaneWatch™ is being phased out in favor of Blind Spot Monitoring, many pre-owned models are equipped with this feature. If you are interested in a vehicle with Honda LaneWatch™, visit Honda of Kirkland today and we can get you set up with a test drive so you can experience it in action.
Does the 2025 Honda Accord have blind spot monitoring?
Gray 2025 Honda Accord Hybrid EX-L eCVT Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Blind Spot Information (BSI) System warning, Exterior Parking Camera Rear, Heated Front Bucket Seats, Lane departure: Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) active, Power moonroof.
