As safety technology progresses, driver-assistance features (ADAS) such as Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) are becoming more widely equipped in new cars. Now, BSM can be found in the Perodua Ativa and many of the B-segment cars currently on sale.

How does it work?

Not all Blind Spot Monitor systems use the same detection method but the common solution is via radar sensors mounted at the rear, usually inside the rear bumper. Some systems may employ cameras as well.

Should the sensors detect an object, it’ll relay the signal to the system for notification, which can be in the form of audio or visual. Chimes or buzzers may alert or warning indicators may light up in the side mirrors or on the A-pillar next to the mirror.

What do manufacturers call it?

Brands like Toyota and Volkswagen call it Blind Spot Monitor; BMW calls it Blind Spot Detection; Mercedes-Benz calls it Blind Spot Assist; Volvo calls it Blind Spot Information System; and the list goes on. Despite how manufacturers name their systems, all of them refer to the same feature. 

My car has it, anything I should know?

Since we have the Perodua Ativa with no where to go for now, we decided to flip through the half-a-thousand pages owner’s manual and found some interesting titbits.

For one, the manual suggests that owners should keep the area of the rear bumper surrounding the sensors clean. It adds that the system may stop functioning if there are rain drops or dirt on the rear bumper around the sensors.

This would also mean that the system wouldn’t be as effective in the rain, as with most functions of ADAS.

Owners are advised to have the vehicle inspected at an authorised service centre if:

• Repairs were carried out on the rear bumper due to impact
• There are scratches are on the bumper around the sensors, or misaligned bumper

It even warns owners against changing the colour of the bumper.

Conclusion

Features like BSM are helpful towards drivers but the key point to take away from here is that its function can easily be impaired, and one needs to ensure it is in fully working condition.

But as we always say, features like BSM are just a tool to help drivers and can never be fully relied on. As drivers, it is our duty to drive safely and responsibly.

Also read: Your ACC can't work well in tunnels - and it's not because your car is cheap