Blind Spot Monitor: Standard On Forester Sport?

The 2025 Subaru Forester Sport features Blind-Spot Detection as a standard feature. This system warns the driver with a visual indicator on each side mirror if it senses a vehicle in their blind spots. This feature was implemented by Subaru in 2014 and has been improved year after year. It uses radar sensors in the rear bumper of the vehicle to monitor blind spots in both mirrors. While the Blind-Spot Detection system is standard on the 2025 Forester Sport, it is only available on select models and trim styles for the 2020 and 2021 model years.

How does blind-spot monitoring work?

Blind-spot monitoring is a safety feature in many new cars that alerts drivers if they attempt to make an unsafe lane change. While it is not a replacement for manually checking your blind spot, it is statistically proven to reduce injuries caused by lane-change crashes.

Blind-spot monitoring uses sensors, typically on the outside of the car, to monitor the driver's blind spots. When another vehicle is detected in the driver's blind spot, a warning light turns on, usually on the inside of the front door near the mirror or on the mirror itself. If the driver then turns on their turn signal, an audible alert is triggered, warning the driver of the risk of an accident.

Some blind-spot monitoring systems use ultrasonic sensors, while others use radar and cameras. Radar-based systems often work in conjunction with other safety features like rear cross-traffic alert and lane-change assist.

Blind-spot monitoring can be found as standard in some new cars, such as the Nissan Sentra and Kia Forte, and as an optional extra in many others. It can also be added to existing cars as an aftermarket option, although this can be difficult and expensive.

Subaru offers Blind Spot Detection as an available feature on many of its models, including the Forester. However, it is not standard on all models and trim styles, and it cannot be easily added after the car has been manufactured.

Can you install blind-spot monitoring after buying?

Blind-spot monitoring is a safety feature that uses technology such as radar and sensors to detect vehicles or objects outside the driver's field of vision. While this feature is available on select Subaru models and trim styles, it is not standard on all vehicles. If you have purchased a Subaru Forester Sport without blind-spot monitoring, you may be wondering if it is possible to install this feature after the fact.

The good news is that it is possible to install blind-spot monitoring on your vehicle after purchasing it. Aftermarket blind-spot monitoring systems are available, and while they are not as common as factory-installed systems, the market is growing. These systems use sensors mounted on the side mirrors or rear bumper to detect vehicles in adjacent lanes and alert the driver through visual or auditory cues.

However, installing an aftermarket blind-spot monitoring system on a Subaru Forester Sport is not a simple task. One owner described it as "not easily [done] and not with any guarantee." Another owner reported that their dealer quoted them approximately $1,500 to install blind-spot monitoring on their 2019-2022 model. Additionally, some owners have reported difficulty sourcing the necessary parts, including wiring harnesses, indicators, and software.

If you are considering installing an aftermarket blind-spot monitoring system, it is important to do your research and consult with a professional. While some systems may be installed by the vehicle owner, others may require professional installation. It is also important to consider the cost, which can range from $250 to over $500, depending on the accuracy and functionality of the system.

In conclusion, while it is possible to install blind-spot monitoring on a Subaru Forester Sport after purchasing it, it may be a complex and costly endeavour. If having this feature is important to you, it may be more convenient and cost-effective to trade in your vehicle for a model that includes blind-spot monitoring as a standard feature.

How to turn on blind-spot monitoring?

The Subaru Forester offers Blind Spot Detection (BSD) as an optional feature, which is bundled with other options. It is not a standard feature on all models and trims. If your vehicle has this feature, the Blind Spot Detection system should automatically turn on without any action from the driver.

To confirm if your vehicle has BSD, check the inner rim of your side mirrors for a blinking light when another vehicle enters your blind spot. You should also be able to hear a beeping or clicking noise when this happens.

If your vehicle has BSD, you can disable the system by toggling a switch located in the dash area and/or on the infotainment screen. In some Subaru models, the BSD system works with the Rear Cross-Traffic Alert feature, and both can be controlled with a single switch or touchscreen toggle.

If you do not see the BSD icon on your dashboard, refer to your owner's manual or contact your local dealer for assistance.

Please note that adding BSD to a vehicle that did not come with it from the factory is challenging and may not be guaranteed to work.

What are the benefits of blind-spot monitoring?

Blind-spot monitoring systems are a crucial technology for improving road safety and preventing accidents. While it is still recommended that drivers manually check their blind spots, these systems can provide several benefits:

Enhanced Safety

By providing an extra set of eyes, blind-spot monitoring systems can serve as a second set of eyes to reduce the risk of accidents or collisions. This is especially useful when changing lanes or turning, as it can be difficult for drivers to focus on the traffic in front of them and also notice vehicles approaching from the rear.

Driver Reassurance

These systems give drivers greater confidence and peace of mind while executing driving maneuvers like merging or changing lanes. Even the most vigilant driver can miss something in their blind spot, especially if they are distracted or fatigued.

Enhanced Visibility

The sensors and cameras used in blind-spot monitoring systems give drivers added awareness of areas outside their field of vision that they may not be able to see using mirrors alone. This is particularly beneficial for drivers of larger vehicles, such as trucks and SUVs, which have larger blind spots and may have difficulty seeing smaller vehicles or pedestrians.

Focus Maintenance

Blind-spot monitoring makes the driving experience easier and more comfortable by giving drivers automated alerts, allowing them to maintain focus on the road ahead without having to strain or take their eyes off the road.

Accident Prevention

Blind-spot monitoring systems can help prevent accidents and save lives. A study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) found that vehicles equipped with blind-spot monitoring had a 14% reduction in lane-change crashes compared to vehicles without this technology. Additionally, a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) study found that rear-end collisions were reduced by 26% with blind-spot monitoring systems.

What other safety features does the 2025 Subaru Forester have?

The 2025 Subaru Forester has a range of safety features. Firstly, it has a Rear Seat Reminder, which reminds drivers to check the rear seat before stepping out of the vehicle, preventing drivers from accidentally leaving behind children or pets.

The 2025 model also has Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which has been improved with a wider field of vision, enhanced control software, and a new electric brake booster, allowing it to detect pedestrians and cyclists sooner and prevent collisions.

The 2025 Subaru Forester also has SUBARU STARLINK Connected Services, which can call emergency services if the driver doesn't respond to warnings while using the Advanced Adaptive Cruise Control. This feature also includes Emergency Stop Assist, which can stop the vehicle, turn on hazard lights, and unlock the doors.

The 2025 Subaru Forester also has Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Keep Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, and the DriverFocus system. The DriverFocus system uses facial recognition technology to monitor the driver's alertness and will alert them with a chime or seat vibration if their attention wanders.

The 2025 Subaru Forester also has a Surround View Monitor, which combines images from four cameras on the vehicle to create a 360-degree bird's-eye view, making parking easier and enhancing situational awareness.

Overall, the 2025 Subaru Forester has a range of advanced safety features that can help prevent accidents and improve the driving experience.

Frequently asked questions