Blind spot monitoring: What is it?

A guide to blind spot monitoring systems

Allowing you to drive safely and comfortably, a blind spot monitoring system can take the strain off the driver and help avoid major accidents

Like horses, cars have blind spots too – though thankfully, most cars won't bolt if you sneak up behind them.

And changing lanes can be dangerous, especially when driving at high speeds on the motorway, or if you’re not a confident driver.

Failing to see a vehicle approaching rapidly from behind in the next lane can easily be done.

There’s nothing quite like an old-fashioned glance over the shoulder to check if a car is in your blind spot, but there are always risks that come with taking your eyes off the road ahead. If you suffer from back or neck problems, you may also find this difficult.

A blind-spot monitoring system can help watch your back when changing lanes.

Let’s take a closer look at what blind-spot monitoring is, how it works and if it’s worth having in your next car lease.

What is blind spot monitoring?

Blind spot monitoring reduces the risk of accidents by monitoring your blind spot areas and detecting any approaching vehicles.

The system can then alert the driver and sometimes even assist with lane assist the driver to avoid a collision.

How does blind spot monitoring work?

Blind spot monitoring systems typically use radar sensors mounted on the side mirrors, the sides of the rear bumper, and rear-facing cameras to continuously monitor the areas behind and alongside your vehicle.

When another vehicle enters your blind spot, the system typically illuminates a warning light on the corresponding wing mirror, often accompanied by an audible alert.

Advanced systems can offer active intervention capabilities.

Steering intervention can gently correct your vehicle's path if you begin changing lanes with a car in your blind spot, while braking intervention applies selective brake pressure to alter direction or engages all brakes to slow the vehicle and prevent collisions.

What do different manufacturers call their blind spot monitoring systems?

• BMW: Active Blind Spot Detection
• Mercedes-Benz/Jaguar: Blind Spot Assist
• Ford/Polestar/Volvo: Blind Spot Information System
• Honda: Blind Spot Information   
• Tesla/MG Motor UK/SEAT/MINI: Blind Spot Detection
• SKODA: Blind Spot Detect
• Fiat/Jeep/Porsche/Toyota/Lexus/Mazda: Blind Spot Monitoring
• Audi/CUPRA: Side Assist
• Hyundai: Blind Spot View Monitor 
• Nissan/Renault/Vauxhall/Mitsubishi: Blind Spot Warning
• Peugeot: Active Blind Spot Monitoring
• Volkswagen: Blind Spot Monitor

Can you add blind spot monitors to a car?

Yes, you can add aftermarket blind spot monitoring systems to most cars – and this includes lease vehicles, though there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

For lease cars specifically

First, you’ll need approval from your leasing company before making any modifications.

The system will need to be professionally installed to avoid damaging the vehicle or the system itself. There are some aftermarket blind spot monitoring systems that can be removed without leaving permanent changes – ideal for lease cars.

Make sure you always check your lease agreement’s modification clauses first.

Professional aftermarket systems can cost anywhere between £100 (for basic mirror-mounted systems) up to £1,200+ (full camera and sensor systems), with installation costs ranging from £100 to £300.

Is a blind spot monitoring system worth it?

Yes, we’d say so – it adds a valuable extra layer of protection for drivers, blind spot monitoring is a useful feature and can help keep you safe on the roads.

The safety feature shouldn’t be used as a replacement for using your interior and exterior mirrors, or looking over your shoulder before changing lanes.

It’s great to use as a helping hand, but shouldn’t be relied on wholly as it’s not 100% accurate.

This technology is becoming standard across the industry, with popular lease car models like the Nissan Juke, BMW i4 and Tesla Model Y including it as standard equipment.

As blind spot monitoring becomes increasingly common, it's proving to be a worthwhile safety addition that can help keep drivers safer on busy roads.