Ram Trucks: Blind Spot Monitor Feature Explained

The Ram 1500 is a popular full-size pickup truck that offers a variety of features and options. One of the most sought-after features is the Blind Spot Monitor, which enhances safety on the road by alerting drivers when a vehicle is in their blind spot. This advanced safety feature helps drivers stay aware of their surroundings and can help them avoid potential collisions.

While the Blind Spot Monitor is available on the Ram 1500, it is not standard on all models and trim levels. Some owners have reported that their trucks did not come with this feature due to chip shortages. Additionally, there have been changes in the option packages for certain models, with some late 2021 Laramie trucks changing from Level 1 and Level 2 equipment packages to Level A and Level B packages, which exclude the Blind Spot Monitor.

For those who are interested in purchasing a Ram truck and want to ensure they have the Blind Spot Monitor feature, it is important to carefully review the option packages and confirm the availability of this feature.

Ram 1500 blind spot monitoring features

The Ram 1500 is a powerful pickup truck with a range of features that enhance safety on the road. One of its most notable features is the Blind Spot Monitor, which helps drivers stay aware of their surroundings and avoid potential collisions.

The Blind Spot Monitor in the Ram 1500 uses radar sensors to detect vehicles in the driver's blind spot. When a vehicle is detected, a warning light appears in the side mirror, alerting the driver to its presence. This system also includes an adjustable sensitivity setting, allowing drivers to customise the feature to their preferences. Additionally, the auto-dimming feature reduces glare and makes it easier for drivers to see the warning light.

The Rear Cross Path Detection system is another component of the Blind Spot Monitor. This system uses sensors to detect when a vehicle is crossing behind the Ram 1500, providing a visual warning in the rearview mirror. This feature is especially useful when backing up, as it alerts drivers to vehicles or people that may be in their path.

The Blind Spot Monitor is not standard on all Ram 1500 models. It is offered as an optional feature, typically included in the Safety Group package or certain trim level packages. For example, for 2021 Laramie models, the Blind Spot Monitor was included in Equipment Level 1 and 2 packages but not in Level A or B.

The Blind Spot Monitor in the Ram 1500 is a valuable safety feature that provides drivers with peace of mind and helps them make informed decisions when changing lanes or backing up. It is a great choice for those seeking enhanced safety features in their pickup truck.

Blind spot monitoring availability in 2020-2023 models

Blind-spot monitoring is an advanced driver assistance system that uses sensors to detect objects outside the driver's peripheral vision. This system alerts the driver to potential dangers on the road, such as vehicles in their blind spot, through flashing lights on the side mirror, beeping sounds, or vibrations on the steering wheel.

The Ram 1500 is a popular full-size pickup truck that has offered blind-spot monitoring as an optional feature since at least 2019. This feature is part of the available Safety Group package. The system uses radar sensors to detect vehicles in the driver's blind spot and provides a warning light in the side mirror. It also includes Rear Cross Path Detection, which alerts the driver when a vehicle is crossing behind the truck.

According to one source, the 2022 Ram 1500 does not come standard with blind-spot monitoring. However, another source mentions that the 2023 Ram 1500 has a blind-spot monitoring system, which suggests that this feature may now be standard on the 2023 models. Additionally, some owners of the 2023 Ram 1500 Longhorn Limited 1500 have reported that their trucks did not come with blind-spot monitoring, while others have the feature. This discrepancy could be due to different packages or trim levels chosen by the owners.

For those who want to add blind-spot monitoring to their Ram trucks, there are aftermarket options available. However, these can be expensive and may require extensive retrofitting.

Aftermarket blind spot monitoring options

There are a variety of aftermarket blind spot monitoring systems available, with features such as visual LED lights, alarms, and sensors that detect hazards. Some systems use ultrasonic technology, while others use radar or lidar. These systems are designed to alert you when a vehicle is in your blind spot, giving you an extra set of eyes on the road.

When choosing an aftermarket blind spot monitor, it is important to consider the features that are most important to you, such as visual or audio signals. Most kits have similar features, but the indicators may vary. It is also recommended to have professional installation, but it is possible to install these systems yourself with the help of online instructions and videos.

• Ultrasonic Blind Spot Detection System: This system uses ultrasonic technology to detect cars in your blind spot and alerts you with blinking indicator lights and a speaker.
• Universal Blind Spot Monitoring Assistant: A 12V system that uses a 24Ghz millimeter-wave sensor to detect vehicles in your blind spot and provide lane-changing warnings.
• Blind Spot Convex Car Mirror: This is an exterior rearview mirror that provides a larger image and improved traffic safety.
• ThirdEYE Motorcycle Blind Spot System: A waterproof system with voice and indicator alerts, designed for motorcycles, bicycles, and e-bikes.

Ram 1500 safety features

The Ram 1500 is a full-size pickup truck with a variety of safety features. Here is a detailed overview of the Ram 1500's safety features:

Blind-Spot Monitoring

The Ram 1500's Blind-Spot Monitoring system alerts you when a vehicle is in your blind spot. It uses sensors to detect other vehicles and alerts you with a visual warning on the side mirror. The system also includes a Rear Cross Path Detection function, which alerts you when a vehicle is crossing behind you.

Forward Collision Warning

The Forward Collision Warning system senses potential collisions ahead and alerts you with audio and visual warnings. If you don't respond, the system will "stab" the brakes, and if you still don't respond, it will apply the brakes fully.

360-Degree Surround View

The 360-degree Surround View system provides a bird's-eye view of your surroundings, making parking and towing easier. It also includes the Trailer Surround View Camera, which extends the functionality to your trailer.

Adaptive Cruise Control

The Ram 1500's Adaptive Cruise Control system can slow your truck to a complete stop. It maintains your pre-selected distance from the vehicle ahead and will decelerate if needed.

Other Safety Features

The Ram 1500 has several other notable safety features:

• Airbags: The Ram 1500 is equipped with six airbags located throughout the cabin, including advanced front airbags with adaptive venting technology.
• Braking System: The Ram 1500 has the largest brake rotors in its class, designed to help you stop safely even in adverse conditions.
• Digital Rearview Mirror: The digital rearview mirror offers a real-time video stream from a rear-facing camera, giving you an unobstructed view of what's behind you.
• Lane Departure Warning: Alerts you if you unintentionally drift out of your lane.
• ParkSense Front and Rear Park Assist: Assists with parking by alerting you to potential hazards.
• Rear Cross Path Detection: Alerts you when a vehicle is crossing behind you.
• Security Alarm: Helps protect your vehicle from theft.
• Tire Pressure Monitoring: Alerts you when tire pressure is too low.

The Ram 1500 also offers optional safety features, such as a Blind Spot Monitor, which can be added to the available Safety Group package.

Blind spot monitoring in Laramie models

Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) is a sought-after feature in Ram trucks, which helps drivers stay safe on the road by alerting them when a vehicle is in their blind spot. The system uses sensors to detect vehicles in the driver's blind spot and alerts the driver with a warning light on the side mirror.

In 2021, Ram made some changes to the availability of BSM on Laramie models due to chip shortages. For trucks ordered on or after February 2021, BSM became a separate option that had to be specified rather than being included in another package. This change affected both the Laramie Level 1 and Level 2 equipment packages, which were renamed to Laramie Level A and Level B, respectively, excluding BSM.

If you are considering purchasing a 2020 or 2021 Laramie model, ensure it has either the Level 1 or Level 2 equipment package to get BSM. For 2022 models, BSM was not available on the Laramie trim, with some owners expressing disappointment about this omission.

It is possible to add BSM to older models, but it can be challenging and expensive. Some owners have discussed ordering OEM parts and custom wire harnesses, while others have mentioned the need for a software upgrade as well. Aftermarket kits are also available but can be costly, with one owner quoting a price of almost $3000 for a kit.

Overall, BSM is a valuable safety feature for Ram truck owners, and it is worth considering when purchasing a Laramie model to ensure you have the latest technology and safety enhancements.

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