Blind Spot Monitor: Standard Or Optional On Toyota Camrys?

Blind Spot Monitoring is a highly sought-after feature in vehicles, and many drivers consider it a necessity for safe driving. While some Toyota Camry models do come equipped with Blind Spot Monitoring, it is not a standard feature on all trims. The availability of this feature varies depending on the model year and trim level of the Camry. Some owners have expressed disappointment that their vehicles did not include Blind Spot Monitoring, especially when purchasing newer models. Aftermarket options exist, but they tend to be expensive and may not integrate seamlessly with the car. As a result, some drivers opt to sell their current Camry and purchase a model that includes Blind Spot Monitoring directly from the factory.

Blind spot monitoring is not a standard feature on all Toyota Camrys

The availability of blind spot monitoring as a feature seems to vary depending on the specific model and trim level of the Toyota Camry. For example, some owners of the SE and SE Hybrid models have mentioned that blind spot monitoring was not included as standard, while others have stated that it was available as an optional package. On the other hand, blind spot monitoring appears to be standard on higher-end models like the XLE, XSE, and TRD trims.

It is worth noting that due to supply chain issues and computer chip shortages, some dealerships may not offer the option to include blind spot monitoring, even if it is typically available on a particular model. This can make it challenging for buyers to obtain a vehicle with this feature, as noted by several Camry owners.

For those who have already purchased a Camry without blind spot monitoring, there are aftermarket options available. However, these can be expensive and may not integrate as seamlessly as factory-installed systems. Additionally, installing aftermarket accessories on a new car that is under warranty may not be advisable. As such, some owners have suggested that it may be more prudent to sell the current vehicle and purchase one that includes blind spot monitoring from the factory.

Overall, while blind spot monitoring is a valuable safety feature, it is not standard on all Toyota Camrys. Buyers interested in this feature should carefully review the available options and packages for their desired model and trim level to ensure they can obtain a vehicle equipped with blind spot monitoring.

It is available as an upgrade on some models

Blind Spot Monitoring is available as an upgrade on some Toyota Camry models. It is not a standard feature on the SE and SE Hybrid models, but it can be added as part of an option package. However, due to inventory and supply chain issues, dealerships may not always offer the option to add it. It seems that the more expensive editions are more likely to have it included.

If you already own a Camry and want to add Blind Spot Monitoring, it is possible to install an aftermarket system. However, this may be expensive and will not be as well-integrated as the OEM version. It is also worth considering that adding aftermarket accessories to a new car under warranty may not be advisable.

One option for adding Blind Spot Monitoring to an existing Camry is to purchase a universal microwave blind-spot detection system from a third-party seller and install it yourself. This can be a more affordable option, but it may not be as effective as the factory-installed version.

It is important to note that even with Blind Spot Monitoring, it is still essential to use mirrors and check blind spots manually when changing lanes. This feature is not a replacement for safe driving practices but rather an additional safety measure.

You can buy third-party blind spot monitors and install them yourself

Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) is not a standard feature on all Toyota Camrys. It is available as an option on LE and SE trims (including hybrids) and is standard on XLE, XSE, and TRD trims. Due to supply chain issues and computer chip shortages, some dealerships may not offer the option to add BSM to new Camrys.

If you already own a Toyota Camry without BSM, you can buy third-party blind spot monitors and install them yourself. This option is more cost-effective than going with an OEM solution, which can be expensive and may not be possible for your specific model. You can find third-party blind spot monitors on websites like eBay, and some users have reported success with these aftermarket solutions.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind when considering a third-party blind spot monitor. Firstly, installing aftermarket accessories on a new car that is under warranty may not be advisable. Secondly, you will need to ensure that the installation is done correctly and that the sensors are properly calibrated. Improper installation could potentially affect the safety and performance of your vehicle.

If you are unsure about installing a third-party blind spot monitor yourself, it may be best to consult a professional installer or consider trading in your current vehicle for a Camry model that includes BSM as a standard feature.

Remember, even with BSM installed, it is still important to use your mirrors and look over your shoulder when changing lanes to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.

Adding OEM blind spot monitoring to a Camry that didn't come with it is not cost-effective

Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) is not a standard feature on all Toyota Camrys. It is available as an option on the SE/SE Hybrid, and it comes as standard on the XLE/XSE/TRD. However, some dealerships may not offer the option to add it due to inventory shortages.

If you have purchased a Camry without BSM and are considering adding it, it is important to note that doing so through the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) will likely be very costly and may not even be possible. One option is to go third-party and purchase an aftermarket BSM kit, which can be installed by a dealer or custom car accessory shop. However, this may not be ideal for a brand-new car that is under warranty.

The most cost-effective solution, if having BSM is important to you, is to sell your current Camry and buy one that comes with it from the factory. In the meantime, you can use your mirrors and look over your shoulder when changing lanes, which is still the recommended practice even with BSM installed.

It is worth noting that some people have observed that BSM can be overly sensitive, causing constant flashing and beeping that can be more of an annoyance than a helpful safety feature. So, while BSM can be a nice addition, it is not a necessity, and properly adjusted mirrors and good driving practices can be just as effective in ensuring safe lane changes.

Aftermarket blind spot monitors are expensive and won't be as good as OEM ones

Blind spots are a serious issue for drivers, and monitoring systems are an important safety feature. While some Toyota Camrys do come with blind spot monitoring, not all models include it as standard. If you want to add this feature to your vehicle, you may be considering an aftermarket blind spot monitor. However, it's important to know that aftermarket options are not as good as OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) systems.

Firstly, aftermarket blind spot monitors are expensive. While they may be cheaper than OEM systems, which can cost thousands of dollars to install, aftermarket options still range from $250 to $750, with some truck systems costing up to $2500. This is a significant expense, especially when you consider that you can buy a vehicle with a factory-installed system for a similar price.

In addition, aftermarket systems are not as effective as OEM ones. They are often less accurate, and while they can be a good addition to an older vehicle, they are not as reliable as built-in systems. Aftermarket systems are also more likely to trigger false alarms, and while this can be mitigated with advanced algorithms, it is still an issue.

Installation is another concern. Aftermarket systems can be complicated to install, often requiring the removal of the vehicle's bumper, and professional installation adds to the overall cost. While some systems can be installed without drilling, this is not always an option, and you may need to make permanent alterations to your car.

Finally, aftermarket systems may not be compatible with all vehicles, and even if they are, the results may not be ideal. For example, the sensors may need to be placed at a specific angle to work effectively, and this may not be possible on all car models.

In conclusion, while aftermarket blind spot monitors can be a good option for older vehicles or those without built-in systems, they are not as good as OEM ones. They are expensive, less effective, and complicated to install. If you are considering adding a blind spot monitor to your vehicle, it may be better to sell your current car and buy one with a factory-installed system, ensuring you have a reliable and effective safety feature.

Frequently asked questions