Your vehicle’s blind spots can lead you to a devastating accident. Whether you drive a motorcycle, truck, or car, these areas are pretty hard to see. No matter how well you position your side-view mirrors, it just doesn’t work. The optimal solution is to install aftermarket blind spot sensors. It can give you real-time information about your vehicle’s blind spots.
Any vehicle without safety assistance is unsafe and prone to collisions. However, a blind spot monitoring system can make your car 10 times safer and more efficient. This guide will dive deep into installing aftermarket blind spot sensors. It will give you a complete picture of the installation and maintenance. So, let’s get started!
Can You Install Blind Spot Sensors Aftermarket?
Aftermarket blind spot sensors have gained quite traction in the last decade. Many people prefer pre-installed safety systems installed in vehicles. Although they aren’t bad, not everyone can buy such expensive cars. And this idea popularized the installation of aftermarket blind spot sensors.
The first question that pops up in many people’s minds is can you install these sensors in any vehicle? The answer is yes; you can install these sensors in your car, motorcycle, or any type of vehicle. Aftermarket blind spot sensors are generally universal. That means the system will work seamlessly in all models and brands of your vehicle. However, there are also some model-specific types for those to have a unique aftermarket radar sensors.
Blind spot sensors’ compatibility differs depending on the vehicle. For instance, you can not install a motorcycle monitor on a car. This system is primarily categorized based on its applications.
How to Install Aftermarket Blind Spot Sensors?
Aftermarket blind spot sensors are generally easy to install. Even if you are not tech-savvy, you can install this system reasonably easily. Here are 6 steps on how to equip your vehicle with a blind spot detection kit.
First, you would need a few things to get started. Make sure to keep a measuring tape, cleaning cloth, and a cleaning solution nearby. Have all the things ready? Follow the steps below:
- Measure the correct positions on your vehicle’s bumper using the measuring tape.
- Now, use the cleaning solution and cloth to clean the chosen positions.
- Mark your selected positions to remember them.
- Next, place one magnet from your system on each mark. For ideal results, make sure they make a 20-degree angle from your car’s bumper. Mark the inside part of the bumper where the magnets are placed.
- Afterward, place your sensors on the marks you made inside the bumper.
- Place the LED lights on your side-view mirrors or the A-pillar.
Note that some systems may restrict the placements to a specific location. The most common option is the side-view mirror. - Once everything in place, you need to make a connection between the devices. The blind spot monitor kit has all wires needed. If you don’t understand the wiring, make sure you refer to our installation manual or the manual that came with the system.
Once the installation is done, start your vehicle to see if the aftermarket blind spot sensors work. While the process may seem easy, there are some things you need to consider. Let’s discuss some important factors in detail.
Specific Instructions
The blind spot sensor installation can vary depending on its make and model. Although they are universal, their installation process can be very different. It also depends on your vehicle. Some systems have specific instructions for a vehicle, like a truck.
For example, some LED indicators can only be positioned on the side-view mirrors. You can read these instructions in the owner’s manual, so make sure to follow them.
Professional Installation Is Better
It is better to contact a professional if you are facing any issues. Some systems can be challenging to install as they have many components. You will easily find many services in your area that can help install a blind spot monitoring system in your vehicle. Or you can contact us for help.
Check the System Volume
Many blind spot monitoring systems also have audible warning mechanisms and LED indicators. If you are unaware, the first audio warning can startle you. Hence, reading about the volume settings in the product’s manual is recommended.
Magnets and No-Magnets
Some blind spot sensors require magnets to stick to the vehicle’s surface. On the other hand, traditional and older systems do not need magnets. Instead, they require you to drill holes to attach them properly. Some systems come with a stickers to help stick the warning signals.
How to Choose the Best Aftermarket Blind Spot Sensors?
Choosing the best aftermarket blind spot sensors can depend on several factors. Let’s discuss them to paint a clearer picture:
1. Detection Range and Accuracy
Not all aftermarket blind spot sensors have a long detection range. Some are limited to a small area. However, the general range is 10 ft from a car’s rear bumper. The same can be said for the accuracy and detection speed. These aspects can vary from system to system. It is better to pick one that has optimal range and accuracy.
2. Installation and Maintenance
Some systems require regular maintenance, while others do not. Make sure you consider this factor before buying one.
Typically, aftermarket blind spot sensors are easy to install. Yet, some can require professional assistance for both installation and maintenance.
3. Alert Sytems
The warning system can vary depending on the model. Generally, LED indicators and audible chimes are the most common options. But in some systems, there is only one of the two. You can read about your system’s description in its manual.
4. Additional Features
If you are a new driver, you might need additional features. That includes automated braking, forward warning collision, reversing assist, etc. A modern wireless blind spot detection system has smart features and more personalized settings.
Are Aftermarket Blind Spot Sensors Better than Factory-Installed?
Little do many people know that aftermarket blind spot sensors have the edge over factory-installed systems in different aspects. Wondering how? Read the following factors to find out!
Lower Base Price
A car with factory-installed blind spot sensors can be very expensive. Generally, companies use this assistive system as an excuse for their vehicle’s costly base price. On the other hand, an aftermarket system can be more cost-effective.
More Variety
Factory-installed systems can not be replaced in most cases. Thus, if you do not like a system, you might be stuck with it. Alternatively, you have more options to go through with aftermarket blind spot sensor systems.
Availability of Smart Features
If you want a modern assistive system, you might not get it factory-installed. Typically, pre-installed monitoring sensors are limited to their primary features. In contrast, the market is flooded with feature-rich and advanced blind spot sensors. You can easily install them on your vehicle, including a car, truck, and motorcycle.
Universal Installation
The factory-installed blind spot sensors are tailored-fit for its specific vehicle. It can only work accurately for that vehicle. Alternatively, an aftermarket system is universal. You can buy a system and install it on any car.
How to do Maintenance of Aftermarket Blind Spot Sensors?
You can perform regular maintenance for aftermarket blind spot sensors. The best part is that you wouldn’t need professional help unless a repair is required. This system’s maintenance involves several steps. Here’s how to do it:
1. Calibration
The blind spot monitoring system depends entirely on its sensors. They emit radar waves to detect any nearby vehicle. Thus, they need proper calibration. Otherwise, these sensors can malfunction or provide inaccurate results. Although calibration is recommended after the installation, it can change. The better solution is to calibrate the sensors after every few months.
2. Cleaning
When first installing the system, it is better to clean these areas. You can use a cloth and cleaning alcohol for this purpose. Over time, your sensors can catch dirt and debris. The worst part is that this factor can affect the accuracy and detection of your system. Hence, removing the sensors can clean them every once in a while is highly recommended.
Also, after removing the sensors, clean the areas where they were positioned. This way, you can continue getting precise results from your sensors.
3. Software Updates
It is important to know that the system relies equally on hardware and software. The hardware is a one-time investment. After installation, you can calibrate it and clean it. But the real problem is with the software.
Not every driver is tech-savvy. Thus, it can be challenging to manage the aftermarket blind spot sensor’s software. Some systems regularly release new updates. It is highly recommended to update the software. Otherwise, you can face issues like inaccuracy, malfunctions, etc.
Conclusion
Aftermarket blind spot sensors can assist both new and experienced drivers. Their primary purpose is to provide safety, efficiency, and driving awareness. The system will help you develop better response time and decision-making abilities. Plus, it will ensure other people’s safety on the road by avoiding minor and major collisions. You can get blind spot sensor installation today and get the never-ending benefits of the system.
If you are inexperienced, it is better to contact a professional. They can understand your system better and help you install it. You can also get guidance for your system’s maintenance from its manual or a professional. Regular care will keep your blind spot sensor system in good condition, offer accurate results, and ensure a longer lifespan.
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