Technology has been dominating the automobile industry for decades. The most popular and useful device is an aftermarket blind spot detection system. It can be the ultimate driving assistant to protect you on the road. Despite its increasing popularity, many people are unaware of it.
So, what is an aftermarket blind spot detection system, and why do you even need it? Let’s answer all these questions in this detailed guide!
Features Of Aftermarket Blind Spot Detection
The features of aftermarket blind spot detection define how the system works. Let’s look at its features one by one!
1. Blind Spot Monitoring
Every vehicle has areas that are nearly invisible to the side-view mirror. These are known as blind spots or no zones. A blind spot detection system monitors these areas in real-time. It makes sure to keep the driver updated on their road surroundings. As a result, drivers can make informed decisions.
Generally, sensors carry out the monitoring task. They emit millimeter radio waves to detect an oncoming object.
2. Alert System
The most significant benefit of aftermarket blind spot monitor installation is its ease of use. All you need is to keep track of the system’s LED lights. They flash or create an alarming sound to notify you of a vehicle’s presence.
Some monitors have one alert system, while others have both visual and audible options. You can track the notifications as the LED lights are mounted on the side-view mirrors or pillars for easy viewing.
3. Accuracy & Precision
An aftermarket blind spot detection system collects accurate data. It precisely calculates a car’s distance and speed lurking in your blind spots. Based on these results, it decides whether to signal an alert or not.
That is why the system will not trigger a notification if your vehicle is at a safe distance from others. It only alarms the driver if the situation gets critical and dangerous.
4. Weather Resistance
All millimeter radar-based aftermarket blind spot detection systems are weather-resistant. These sensors work efficiently even in extreme weather conditions, like rainstorms and snow. Similarly, the system doesn’t get affected by dust, debris, or fog.
5. Extra Features
You might also find some additional features in blind spot detection systems. That includes forward collision warning, parking assist, automated braking, GPS navigation, etc. While systems with these extra functions are significantly more expensive, they are helpful for new drivers.
Why Aftermarket Blind Spot Detection are Trending?
The aftermarket blind spot detection systems have recently become even more popular than factory-installed systems. The question is, why these driving assistance devices are becoming common? Let’s find out!
1. More Vehicles than Ever
We live in an era where almost everyone has a car or motorbike. The number might vary from country to country, but the increasing commonization is undeniable. Only from 2021, 13.3% of traffic has increased on motorways, which is alarming.
More vehicles on the road mean increased chances of collisions. That is why people prefer driving assistance systems like aftermarket blind spot mirrors and monitors to protect themselves in dangerous scenarios.
2. Improved Driving Awareness
Although more cars than ever are present on the road, people have a more developed driving awareness. Seasoned drivers understand the dangers of a vehicle’s blind spots. That is why they use and recommend blind spot detection systems to inexperienced drivers.
3. Value for Money
If you go online and read aftermarket blind spot detection system reviews, you will find one thing is common. And that is people praising the system’s value for money. At a small initial installation cost, this driving assistance tool protects your life from fatal blind spot accidents. On top of that, it ensures protection for your vehicle and others on the road, including drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
How Aftermarket Blind Spot Detection Saves You From Road Accidents?
An aftermarket blind spot detection is a life-saver on busy roads and highways. It works effectively, monitoring nearby vehicles. According to a study by Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, blind spot monitors can minimize lane-related collisions by 14%. Additionally, they can reduce the impact of an accident by 23%.
But how can this system help you on the road and save you from accidents? Here’s how!
- It makes sure no vehicle gets in your blind spot without your knowledge.
- The system provides accurate information, considering the oncoming vehicle’s speed and distance.
- It covers a significant area to detect all nearby vehicles.
- This driving assistance system works efficiently in all weather conditions.
- It requires low to minimal maintenance without affecting its performance.
- This system triggers alerts in audible and visual ways to notify the driver.
- Its placement is convenient, allowing the driver to get the hang of it quickly.
Benefits Of Aftermarket Blind Spot Detection Over Factory-Installed Systems
Aftermarket blind spot detection systems are often debated against factory-installed systems. The latter can have many drawbacks, including a higher cost. In contrast, an aftermarket option is a more cost-effective approach. Let’s see why.
Lower Initial Cost
An aftermarket blind spot detection system is widely available in the market. On the other hand, a factory-installed one comes built-in with a car tailored to particular specifications. Vehicles that come with factory-installed systems are generally more expensive. It is a better approach to get an aftermarket option to cut down costs.
Moreover, the essential equipment comes with an aftermarket system. Thus, you don’t have to spend on that either.
Easy Repair
Repairs can be a hassle in factory-installed systems. You will need to consult the car’s specific company for professional assistance. However, that’s not the case with an aftermarket system, as its spare parts and repair specialists are abundant in the market. That is also due to the availability of many reliable manufacturers for aftermarket blind spot monitors.
Lack of Maintenance
A car with a factory-installed blind spot detection system may have increased accuracy but at the cost of maintenance. These vehicles will need professional care more frequently. In contrast, aftermarket blind spot detection systems are easy to maintain and usually don’t require assistance.
More Flexibility
The market is full of aftermarket blind spot detection systems. Every model is more flexible, including robust features like a braking assist, collision warning, etc. These functions are generally unavailable in factory-installed blind spot monitoring systems as they are only designed for their titular purpose.
How to Upgrade Your Vehicle with Aftermarket Blind Spot Detection?
Over 413,000 car accidents occur due to blind spots, making them extremely dangerous. The worst part is that almost 160,000 of these collisions are fatal, involving life casualties. You can opt for many solutions, like:
- Cleaning and positioning your side-view mirrors
- Always double-checking the road
- Alerting other drivers when changing lanes
However, these solutions can only help you to some extent. The ultimate solution is to upgrade your vehicle with aftermarket blind spot detection. How to do it? Let’s take a look!
1. Choosing the Right Option
The first step is to pick a suitable blind spot detection system. Since the market is snowballed with many options, you will surely find one that fits your need. The key is looking for a reliable manufacturer with a wide range of systems at affordable prices.
After then, consider the following aspects to ensure you get the best aftermarket blind spot detection:
- Detection range
- Detection accuracy
- Alert mechanism
- Waterproof level
- Additional features
2. Installation
Now comes the main part, i.e., aftermarket blind spot monitor installation. Note that the installation procedure can vary from system to system. Generally, the most preferred option is a plug-and-play setup. It suits all drivers, even those inexperienced with driving assistance tools.
However, most systems come with their product manual. You can follow the instructions to understand the installation method. Alternatively, you can consult professional help to install the system in your vehicle.
3. Maintenance
While a wireless blind spot detection system does not require frequent maintenance, some tips can prolong its lifespan. The first thing to consider is calibrating the sensors every now and then. It will ensure you get the accurate results promised by the system.
Secondly, you should also clean the system gently using a soft cloth. Do this after driving on the road with dust and debris. Although these conditions don’t damage the sensors, they can affect the accuracy.
Conclusion
Aftermarket blind spot detection has proven its worth in this era of technological advancement. It is undoubtedly a must-have driving assistant tool for cars, trucks, motorbikes, etc. This system has applications for personal and professional drivers. While its basic premise is to ensure safety from blind spot accidents, the system can do much more, like improving driving awareness and decision-making power.
If you want to stay safe in this age of increased traffic, equip your car with the best aftermarket blind spot detection. It will keep you safe while also protecting your vehicle from minor collisions. As a result, you can minimize maintenance costs, creating a win-win situation.
