Ford F-150: Blind Spot Monitoring System Explained

Blind-spot monitoring is a feature available in some vehicles that warns the driver when a vehicle is detected in one of the blind spots. The Ford F-150 is a popular truck that offers this feature, known as BLIS (Blind Spot Information System). While some older models of the F-150 had blind-spot monitoring that only provided visual alerts, newer models have enhanced the system to include both visual and audio alerts, making it more effective in notifying drivers of potential hazards. The system can also be customised to suit the driver's preferences, such as turning off the audio alerts or adjusting the sensitivity of the sensors. Additionally, the F-150's BLIS system can be paired with trailer coverage, providing blind-spot monitoring for both the truck and the attached trailer, ensuring safer driving when towing.

Ford F-150 blind spot monitoring: does it have an audio alert?

The Ford F-150 comes with a Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) that uses sensors on both sides of the truck to detect vehicles in the driver's blind spot. When the system detects a vehicle in the driver's blind spot, it alerts the driver with a flashing indicator light in the sideview mirror. This light flashes rapidly if the driver also has their turn signal on.

The Blind Spot Information System does not come with an audio alert as standard. However, some users have expressed a desire for an audio alert, and it is possible to install an aftermarket system that provides this feature. The system can be turned on and off via the SYNC 4 infotainment system settings.

Ford F-150 blind spot monitoring: can it be turned off?

The Ford F-150 Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) uses sensors on both sides of the truck to detect vehicles in the blind spot zone. When the system detects a vehicle, an alert indicator illuminates in the exterior mirror on the side the vehicle is approaching from. If you then turn on the turn signal for that side of the vehicle, the alert indicator flashes.

The BLIS system can be switched on and off via the SYNC 4 infotainment system settings. To do this, select 'Features' on the centre touchscreen, then select 'Driver Assistance' and switch the Blind Spot Information System on or off. When you switch the system off, a warning lamp illuminates and a message is displayed. The system will also remember the last setting when you start your vehicle.

The base XL trim does not come with BLIS as standard, but it can be equipped for a price.

Some users have reported that they are unable to switch off the blind spot monitoring system, even after disconnecting the sensors. In these cases, it may be necessary to contact a Ford dealer to have the system switched off.

Ford F-150 blind spot monitoring: does it work when towing a trailer?

The Ford F-150 pickup truck is equipped with the Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), which uses radar sensors located on both sides of the truck to monitor the presence of moving objects in the driver's blind spot. When a vehicle is detected, a warning light is activated on the corresponding side mirror, alerting the driver. This system is designed to enhance safety, particularly when towing a trailer.

The BLIS system in the Ford F-150 is specifically designed to work in conjunction with a trailer. When a trailer is attached, the system automatically recalibrates the blind-spot zone to account for the added length. This ensures that the driver is alerted to vehicles in the blind spot of both the truck and the trailer, providing a more comprehensive view of their surroundings.

The system supports conventional trailers up to 9 feet wide and 33 feet long. To use BLIS with a trailer, the driver must first input the trailer's dimensions into the system. Once configured, the system will provide blind spot coverage for both the truck and the trailer, offering added peace of mind while driving.

While the BLIS system in the Ford F-150 is designed to work with trailers, it is important to note that it does not replace the driver's attention and vigilance while on the road. It serves as an aid to enhance safety, but drivers should still remain alert and aware of their surroundings at all times, especially when towing.

Some users have reported issues with the BLIS system not working as expected when towing a trailer. In some cases, the system may need to be enabled in the vehicle settings, and certain conditions must be met for the system to activate, such as attaching a trailer, setting up the trailer in the system, starting the vehicle, shifting into drive, and reaching a speed greater than 6 mph.

Ford F-150 blind spot monitoring: how does it work with power-folding mirrors?

The Ford F-150 offers drivers a Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) that comes with a visual alert in the form of a flashing icon on the mirror. Some users have noted that they expected an audio alert, as they had in their previous cars, but that the F-150 only provides a visual warning. However, one user noted that the system does make a sound when backing up and a vehicle is approaching from either side.

The F-150's blind spot monitoring system can be used in conjunction with power-folding mirrors. However, one user reported an issue with their power-folding mirrors, stating that the blind spot monitoring system appeared to stay turned off when the mirrors unfolded, requiring them to manually turn it on each time. It is unclear whether this is a common issue or an isolated incident.

Power-folding mirrors can be added to the F-150 as an aftermarket modification, and some models come equipped with power-folding mirrors as a standard feature. These mirrors can be set to fold in when the truck is locked and unfold when unlocked.

The blind spot monitoring system on the F-150 can be turned on and off via a setting in the center console. This setting may need to be adjusted to ensure the system remains on when using power-folding mirrors.

Ford F-150 blind spot monitoring: what are the visual alerts?

The Ford F-150 has a Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) that can alert drivers to vehicles detected alongside the truck in areas that are difficult to see. When a vehicle is detected in the driver's blind spot, they are alerted with a visual indicator light in the side-view mirror. This light is described as a "tiny orange symbol" in both mirrors. The alert flashes rapidly if the driver attempts to change lanes while a vehicle is in their blind spot.

The F-150's BLIS system also includes Cross-Traffic Alert, which uses radar to detect traffic when the driver is slowly backing out of a parking spot or driveway. When a vehicle is approaching from either side, the system emits an audible warning and flashes an indicator light in the side-view mirrors. A visual display in the message centre also indicates the direction from which the vehicle is coming.

Some drivers have expressed a desire for the F-150's blind-spot monitoring system to include an audio alert, in addition to the visual indicators. However, others have noted that a constant chime could become annoying and distracting, especially when passing other vehicles on the road.

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