Dennis Hammett
Blind Spot Monitors are among the most popular new technologies in cars today. They use radar sensors to detect vehicles approaching from adjacent lanes and alert the driver using lights and/or audio cues. Lexus is a car manufacturer that offers this feature on some of its models, including the Lexus ES300H. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to add and activate a Blind Spot Monitor for your Lexus ES300H, enhancing your driving experience and keeping you safe on the road.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How to turn on the blind spot monitor in Lexus ES300h | Push the BSM button located under the outside mirror controls or to the left of your left knee when sitting inside the car |
| How the system works | Radar sensors in the rear quarters of the vehicle detect vehicles approaching from adjacent lanes. If a vehicle enters the Lexus' blind spot, a solid light appears in the side-view mirror. If the driver signals to change lanes, the solid light flashes a warning. |
| Sensing range | Up to 60 metres rearward in the adjacent lane |
| Alerts | Visual and audio alerts. The system also alerts drivers to objects approaching from the rear at speed. |
What You'll Learn
How to turn on the blind spot monitor in a Lexus ES300h
The Lexus ES300h's Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) is a standard feature that can be turned on and off using the button located under the outside mirror controls or to the left of your left knee when sitting inside the car. When turned on, the BSM will flash in the side rear-view mirror and in the HUD if a car is in your blind spot.
The BSM system uses radar sensors to detect vehicles approaching from adjacent lanes. If a vehicle is detected in your blind spot, a solid light will appear in the side-view mirror to increase your awareness. If you signal to change lanes while a vehicle is in your blind spot, the light will flash as a warning. The detection range can adjust based on signals from the steering angle sensor, helping to detect vehicles even on curving roads.
The BSM system can be customised to your preference, with the option to adjust the sensitivity. This can be done by referring to the owner's manual, which can be found online.
It is important to note that the BSM is a safety aid and should not be solely relied on when driving. The driver is always responsible for driving safely and should use normal driving procedures at all times.
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How to customise the sensitivity of the blind spot monitor
The Lexus ES300h is a great car, and customising the sensitivity of its blind-spot monitor can be a good idea to ensure you're getting the most out of this safety feature. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Step 1: Understanding the Blind Spot Monitor System
Before adjusting the sensitivity of your Lexus ES300h's blind-spot monitor, it's important to understand how the system works. The blind-spot monitor, often referred to as BSM, uses radar sensors in the rear quarters of the vehicle to detect vehicles approaching from adjacent lanes. This feature is designed to increase your awareness as a driver and prevent accidents caused by blind spots.
Step 2: Locating the Controls
The first step to customising the sensitivity of the blind-spot monitor is to locate the controls. In the Lexus ES300h, the blind-spot monitor can be turned on and off using the steering wheel controls and the Multi-Information Display (MID). Use the left and right arrows on the meter control switches to access the settings menu, which is indicated by a gear icon.
Step 3: Accessing the Sensitivity Settings
Once you have accessed the settings menu, use the up and down arrows on the meter control switch to navigate to the "BSM" option. This is where you can customise the sensitivity of the blind-spot monitor. The specific steps may vary depending on the model year of your Lexus ES300h, so it is always a good idea to refer to your owner's manual for detailed instructions.
Step 4: Adjusting the Sensitivity
After selecting the "BSM" option, you will be able to adjust the sensitivity settings. The Lexus ES300h may offer different sensitivity levels, such as high, medium, or low, or it may provide a sliding scale for more precise adjustments. Choose the level that best suits your preferences and driving conditions. Keep in mind that a higher sensitivity setting may result in more frequent alerts, while a lower setting may provide alerts only for closer vehicles.
Step 5: Testing the Adjustments
After making your desired adjustments to the sensitivity settings, it's important to test the system to ensure it is functioning properly. Drive your Lexus ES300h in various conditions, such as on a highway or in busy city traffic, and observe how the blind-spot monitor responds to vehicles in your blind spots. Ensure that the alerts are timely and provide you with sufficient warning to make safe driving decisions.
Step 6: Fine-Tuning
If you find that the alerts are too frequent or not frequent enough after your initial adjustments, don't hesitate to fine-tune the sensitivity settings. Customising the sensitivity of your blind-spot monitor is about finding the right balance that enhances your driving experience and safety. Remember that you can always go back and adjust the settings until you find the level that works best for you.
By following these steps, you can customise the sensitivity of your Lexus ES300h's blind-spot monitor to ensure it suits your driving needs and preferences. This feature is an excellent way to increase your awareness of your surroundings and make your driving experience safer and more enjoyable.
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How blind spot monitors increase driving perception
Blind-spot monitoring (BSM) is a driver aid technology that helps keep an eye on the space just off the rear quarter areas of your vehicle. These blind spots can hide a vehicle approaching in an adjacent lane, and merging without checking can often result in a crash. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), around 9% of all reported vehicle crashes each year result from changing lanes or merging.
Blind-spot monitoring systems use radar or ultrasonic sensors embedded in each side of the vehicle’s rear bumper to detect vehicles approaching the rear of your car in an adjoining lane. More advanced systems also employ side-mounted cameras. When the system recognises a vehicle about to enter a blind spot, it warns the driver that the adjoining lane is not clear. The alert usually comes in the form of a yellow warning light on the outboard rearview mirror, but it may also appear on the driver's information display or head-up display. Some systems also provide an audible alert, such as a beeping tone or a repeating chime, and some offer a haptic alert such as vibration through the steering wheel or seat.
The most advanced BSM systems will nudge the driver away from the lane marker or even steer the vehicle back to the centre of the lane. These systems can apply brake pressure to one or more wheels to prevent the driver from changing lanes and colliding with another vehicle.
The benefits of BSM include:
- Preventing some accidents and minimising the impact of others
- Increasing driving awareness
- Making drivers and passengers feel safer and more confident
- Providing early warning, increasing the time the driver has to respond
- Relieving some of the stress of driving in close quarters
- Being especially useful for larger vehicles, which tend to have larger blind spots
While BSM is not a substitute for checking mirrors and looking over one's shoulder, it offers an added safety measure to compensate for human error.
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How to add a blind spot monitor to an older Lexus model
Blind Spot Monitors are now a standard feature on most new Lexus models, but if you have an older Lexus model, you can still add this feature.
Blind Spot Monitors use radar sensors in the rear quarters of the vehicle to detect vehicles approaching from adjacent lanes. If a vehicle is detected in your blind spot, a solid light will appear in the side-view mirror, and if you signal to change lanes, the light will flash as a warning.
There are a few options for adding a Blind Spot Monitor to an older Lexus model. One option is to purchase a new side mirror with a built-in Blind Spot Monitor. This option can be more expensive, but it will ensure that the monitor is seamlessly integrated into your vehicle. Another option is to install a Blind Spot Monitor system that uses sensors placed behind the rear bumper on each side of the car. This type of system will typically include an LED light that will light up when someone is in your blind spot, and may also include an audible alert if you put on your turn signal.
When choosing a Blind Spot Monitor system, it is important to select one that is compatible with your specific Lexus model and year. It is also important to ensure that the system uses high-quality sensors that are consistent and reliable.
Once you have purchased a Blind Spot Monitor system, you will need to install the sensors and, if applicable, replace your side mirrors. This process may vary depending on the system you choose, so be sure to carefully follow the installation instructions provided by the manufacturer.
Adding a Blind Spot Monitor to your older Lexus model can enhance your driving experience and improve safety. By following the steps outlined above, you can enjoy the benefits of this technology and increase your awareness of your surroundings on the road.
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The benefits of a blind spot monitor
Blind-spot monitoring is a crucial function of the driver assistance system. It is an active driver aid/safety device with the ability to detect what your eyes may miss, issuing a warning as a vehicle approaches in an adjoining lane. Here are some benefits of a blind-spot monitor:
Increased Driving Awareness
Your eyes can only catch so many things outside the vehicle, and having a blind-spot monitor can provide you with extra coverage. The system constantly views the spots you can't always track while you're driving.
Assists Drivers of Larger Vehicles
If you own a larger vehicle, you know how difficult it is to see around it. The monitor can decrease your stress levels by looking at the unseen areas surrounding your vehicle. The larger the vehicle, the greater the benefit.
Prevent Crashes
In addition to keeping track of the area around your vehicle, a blind spot monitor can prevent you from driving into another vehicle moving in the same direction or an adjoining lane. It will prevent some accidents and can minimize others.
Increase Response Time
Blind spot monitors tend to be more accurate than mirrors and allow you to recognize potential dangers faster. That way, you can step on the brake or turn the steering wheel quicker. Early warning increases the time you have to respond.
Relieves Stress
It relieves you of some of the stress of driving in close quarters. You will feel safer and more confident, and so will your passengers.
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Frequently asked questions
To turn on the Blind Spot Monitor in your Lexus ES300h, push the BSM button located right under the outside mirror controls or to your left if you’re sitting inside the car.
The blind spot monitor uses radar sensors in the rear quarters of the vehicle to detect vehicles approaching from adjacent lanes. If a vehicle is detected in your blind spot, a solid light appears in the side-view mirror to increase your awareness. If you signal to change lanes while a vehicle is in your blind spot, the solid light flashes as a warning.
No, Lexus does not have an audio alert option for the blind spot monitor. However, if you attempt to turn while a vehicle is in your blind spot, you will get a loud "check your surroundings" alert.
Yes, you can customize the sensitivity of the blind spot monitor. Refer to your Lexus owner's manual for instructions.
The sensing range of the blind spot monitor extends up to 60 meters rearward in the adjacent lane.
