How to Use Blind Spot Monitoring on a Mazda
How to Use Blind Spot Monitoring on a Mazda
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) is one of those features you don’t think much about until you experience it. Once you do, it’s hard to imagine driving without it. In this quick guide, we’ll show you how to get the most out of your Mazda’s Blind Spot Monitoring and drive with extra peace of mind.
What is Blind Spot Monitoring?
Blind Spot Monitoring helps you keep tabs on those hard-to-see areas around your car, especially your blind spot areas. You know, the one where you have to shoulder check for when changing lanes! If another vehicle enters your blind spot, a small orange light on your side mirror will turn on. If you try to change lanes while that light is on, and you’ll get a warning sound, an audible beep to give you an extra nudge to double-check before making your move. Ideally, you want to still check your blind spot areas by turning your head, just use it as an extra guide to help you change lanes.
How to Turn On Blind Spot Monitoring
- Start Your Mazda: Turn on your vehicle and access the infotainment screen.
- Navigate to Settings: Go to the “Settings” menu.
- Find Safety Settings: Select “Safety settings”
- Find Safety Alerts: Select “Safety Alerts”
- Activate BSM: Scroll down to Blind Spot Monitoring, select it to show options to turn it on. Make sure Blind Spot Monitoring is switched on.
Once it’s on, BSM will start working automatically when you’re driving above 32 km/h (20 mph).
How to Recognize the Alerts
- Visual Alert: When a car is detected in your blind spot, a small amber light will appear on the corresponding side mirror. (In certain models, you will be able to see a visual orange line in your gauge display on the corresponding lane you’re trying to switch to when a vehicle is detected)
- Audible Alert: If you signal to change lanes while a vehicle is in your blind spot, you’ll hear a warning sound.
Tips to Get the Most Out of BSM
- Don’t Rely Solely on It: While BSM is a fantastic assist, it’s not a replacement for checking your mirrors and doing a quick shoulder glance.
- Keep It Clean: Sensors can get blocked by dirt, snow, or ice. Wipe your mirrors and bumpers regularly to keep everything working as it should.
- Know Its Limits: BSM may not detect every object, especially smaller vehicles like motorcycles or bicycles. Always stay alert.
Test It Out!
The best way to get comfortable with Blind Spot Monitoring is to try it for yourself. If you’re curious about how it works or want a closer look, swing by our dealership for a hands-on demo. You’ll be surprised at how much it can enhance your driving confidence.
Got questions? Drop a comment on our YouTube video or come see us in person. Safe travels!