More than 800,000 car accidents take place due to blind spots every year. Since these areas are practically invisible to the side view mirrors, the driver rarely knows what’s happening in these spots. Many of these collisions can be fatal, considering the magnitude of your car. These areas can differ depending on your vehicle. Generally, a truck has significantly larger and more dangerous blind spots than a car or motorbike.
Just like many other vehicles, yours might also be unsafe. If your vehicle isn’t equipped with a blind spot monitor, an aftermarket blind spot monitor is the ideal option. But what is it, how does it work, and why do you need it? We will go through all the details in this guide. So, let’s get started!
What is Aftermarket Blind Spot Monitor?
An aftermarket blind spot monitor is a driving safety assistive system. It consists of different components working together to monitor the blind spots of a vehicle. Due to your car’s build, these areas are not visible to the rearview and side mirrors. However, this system can detect any moving object in the blind spots and issue an alert to warn the driver.
Every car and truck has four blind spots, which are as follows:
- Direct front
- Rear side
- Passenger’s side
- Driver side
Any vehicle in these areas nearly disappears for the car driver to see. And that can lead to fatal accidents and collisions, impacting you and others on the road. The blind spots are also called “no zones” for a good reason. The only solution to this problem is an aftermarket blind spot monitor system that comes in to protect you from such threats.
For larger vehicles, the blind spot monitors can be installed at right or left side. The passenger (right) side for bigger cars and trucks is the most dangerous no zone. However, for cars, these radar sensors are installed at the back bumper. However, you can also install a complete blind spot monitor kit to detect oncoming vehicles on all four no zones.
How Does Aftermarket Blind Spot Monitor Work?
An aftermarket blind spot monitor consists of several components. Here are the main ones:
- An alert system (usually a buzzer)
- Millimeter radar-based sensors
- Harnesses for buzzer wire and indicators.
- Indicator lights
- A power line
All of these modules are connected with each other to provide accurate results. The working of an aftermarket blind spot monitoring system can be broken down into two main functions. Let’s look at them in detail:
1. Detecting A Vehicle
It is the responsibility of sensors to detect moving objects. The radar-based sensors emit microwaves to sense an oncoming vehicle. Each system has a limited range of microwaves to work efficiently. When a vehicle enters this range, the sensors quickly identify the object, speed, and distance.
The area coverage and frequency bands of sensors can vary depending on the blind spot system’s model. However, one thing is common in all systems; they provide precise information regarding an object’s distance and speed.
2. Sending an Alert
After microwaves detect a vehicle, an alert is sent to the driver. The most common way of notifying a driver is with a buzzer or flashing lights. It depends on the aftermarket blind spot monitor’s model.
Drivers can make informed decisions and avoid collisions when they receive alerts. The flashing lights warning system is generally placed on the side-view mirrors or the side pillars. As for buzzers, most car and truck drivers find them convenient on the dashboard to be easily audible.
6 Reasons to Install Aftermarket Blind Spot Monitor
Are you not convinced to install aftermarket blind spot monitor for your vehicle? Let us tell you 6 solid reasons to get this assistive system today!
1. Increased Driver Safety
Nothing is more important than your safety. A road accident can have some devastating consequences. It can impact you, your vehicle, and other people on the road. However, you can prevent such accidents using a blind spot monitor. It gives you real-time detection for any oncoming vehicle, ensuring your protection from collisions. This way, you can drive with less stress and remain safe simultaneously.
2. Lower Maintenance Costs
Vehicle maintenance can cost a fortune. Even a minor collision with a moving object can sometimes permanently damage your car, truck, or motorbike. To avoid these extra costs, your safest bet is an aftermarket blind spot monitoring system.
It gives you precise information about a vehicle’s distance and speed. As a result, you can make the right decisions at the right time. This assistive system can help you avoid minor and major collisions, increasing your vehicle’s lifespan.
3. Become a Pro Driver
Are you new to truck driving? Then you definitely need an assistive system. Even expert truck drivers agree that driving such a heavy vehicle can be challenging. Then, there are other factors, like long work hours. All of these aspects can cause driver fatigue and distractions.
Also, for new car drivers and motorbike riders, it is highly recommended to install aftermarket blind spot monitor. A newbie can learn faster and become a skilled driver with enhanced safety.
4. Make Quick and Informed Decisions
Without this blind spot detection system, you are vulnerable to accidents. That’s because you have almost no view of your vehicle’s no zones. Any vehicle can enter these spots and collide with you.
Aftermarket blind spot monitors give accurate information about your surroundings, allowing you to respond better. This factor makes you a responsive and efficient driver.
5. Better Than Side-view Mirrors
A blind spot monitor kit is an all-in-one solution, 10 times more efficient than side-view mirrors. That’s mainly because they remain unaffected by the weather conditions. This assistive system works seamlessly in rainstorms and snow. Additionally, it is resistant to outdoor elements, like dirt, fog, and debris.
On the other hand, a side-view mirror can easily get blurry and unclear during such weather conditions. However, the radar sensors can stand efficiently against all weather conditions and still provide accurate results.
6. Comes in Different Types
Aftermarket blind spot monitors are not limited to one specific type. You will find a wide variety in this assistive system. Generally, the main difference between different models is the alert systems. Some systems alarm users with a sound, while others have flashing lights.
Another difference is the availability of smart features. An advanced wireless blind spot detection system has options like advanced auto-braking, reversing assist, etc.
Difference Between Factory-installed and Aftermarket Blind Spot Monitors
Many confuse aftermarket blind spot monitors with factory-installed ones. But there are some differences between the two assistive systems. Here are all of them listed and explained:
- The factory-installed blind spot monitors are pre-installed in vehicles, while aftermarket ones are available separately.
- Generally, aftermarket blind spot monitoring systems have a wide assortment of features. On the other hand, the factory-installed ones have limited features.
- An aftermarket blind spot monitor can suit different vehicles as it is universal, whereas a factory-installed system is tailored to suit its designated vehicle.
- Usually, factory-installed blind spot monitors are comparatively more accurate than aftermarket ones.
- Factory-installed blind spot monitoring systems are typically only installed in expensive cars. That gives the aftermarket monitors the upper hand in terms of accessibility.
How to Choose The Best Aftermarket Blind Spot Monitor?
Some decisive factors come into play when choosing the best aftermarket blind spot monitor. Ultimately, it all comes down to your personal preferences and requirements. Here are some considerations before you buy this assistive system:
- Detection range
- Detection speed
- Installation method
- Alert system
- Frequency band
- Detection accuracy
- Sensors
- Waterproof grade for weather resistance
These are all the aspects you need to consider to buy the best solution for your vehicle. You can also go for a more modern system with smart features, but that’s secondary. Also, choosing a feature-rich system will cost you more. An ideal system packs all the essential features and is cost-effective.
Some factors are decisive, like detection range, accuracy, and speed. These are beneficial for detecting vehicles. However, some other aspects are based on personal preferences. That includes the alert system and installation method. Most drivers prefer systems with plug-and-play installation, as not everyone is an expert. On the other hand, many monitors can only be installed by professionals as they are not straightforward.
Conclusion
Aftermarket blind spot monitor is an effective problem-solver. It can help you a lot on the road, whether you are a new or experienced driver. Even better, it takes your driving skills to the next level. This assistive driving system works efficiently in all weather conditions and offers an accurate view of your vehicle’s blind spots. This way, you can avoid accidents and remain safe throughout your journey.
However, it is highly recommended not to rely entirely on blind spot monitor systems. That’s because it is not designed to replace driving safety practices. As a driver, you should always double-check your surroundings before making a decision. You should combine this assistive system with your driving expertise for the best outcome.
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