Driving on the roads can be challenging, especially when it comes to changing lanes or merging into traffic. Blind spots can make it difficult to see other vehicles, and accidents can happen when drivers are not aware of their surroundings.
Fortunately, Lexus offers a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) system that can help drivers detect vehicles in their blind spots and avoid potential collisions. This system is a valuable safety feature on many Lexus models that alerts drivers to potential dangers when changing lanes.
Are you a Lexus driver wondering what the BSM light that occasionally flashes on your side mirrors could mean?
Keep reading as we show you everything you need to know about the BSM light in Lexus vehicles – its purpose, how it works, and what to do if it illuminates while driving.
Table of Contents
What is Blind Spot Monitor (BSM)?
This is one of Lexus’ most recent safety monitoring systems which uses the sensors installed behind the rear bumper to assist the driver. It uses radar sensors to find vehicles moving in an adjacent lane (rear view mirror) in an area where the blind spot is not visible.
BSM alerts the driver if the turn indicator is on by turning on an indicator in the door mirror on the relevant side of the vehicle. The BSM function effectively when the main switch is on. And also when the vehicle speed is greater than approximately 10 mph (16 km/h).
Currently, the Lexus GS, RX 450h, and the new Lexus NX luxury crossover all come equipped with the Blind Spot Monitor system.
Components of Blind Spot Monitor
1. BSM Button
You activate or deactivate the device by pressing the switch. When the switch is turned on, the indicator lights up and the buzzer plays. This button controls both the Blind Spot Monitor and the Rear Cross Traffic Warning features.
2. Outside Rear-View Mirror Indicators
When a vehicle is detected in a blind spot of the outside rear-view mirrors or is coming quickly from behind into a blind spot, the outside rear-view mirror indicator on the detected side will light up.
3. Rear Cross Traffic Alert buzzer
The buzzer sounds from behind the right-hand back seat when a vehicle appears from the right or left rear of the car.
What Does the BSM Light on a Lexus Mean?
In a Lexus, the BSM light stands for the Blind Spot Monitor warning light. The BSM warning indicators are located in the left and right side mirrors.
And it illuminates when the BSM system identifies a vehicle in the driver’s blind spot to alert them to a potential threat. As long as the car is identified in the blind spot, the light will remain on; once it is no longer in the blind spot, it will go out.
Also, the blind spot monitor is intended to assist drivers in safer lane changes and lessen the possibility of accidents brought on by blind spots.
On some Lexus models, it is an optional feature that may not be available on all trim levels or model years.
How to Enable and Disable Lexus BSM
There are different methods to enable and disable the BSM (Blind Spot Monitoring) feature on a Lexus, depending on the specific model and year. Here are some common methods:
Method 1: Using the BSM Button on the Dashboard
- Start your Lexus and make sure it is in “Park” or “Neutral” with the parking brake engaged.
- Locate the BSM button on the dashboard of your Lexus. It is typically located to the left of the steering wheel.
- Press and hold the BSM button until you hear a beep sound. This indicates that the BSM feature has been enabled.
- To disable the BSM feature, press and hold the BSM button again until you hear a beep sound. This indicates that the BSM feature has been disabled.
Method 2: Using the Multi-Information Display (MID)
- Start your Lexus and make sure it is in “Park” or “Neutral” with the parking brake engaged.
- Press the “Menu” button on the steering wheel to access the Multi-Information Display (MID) settings.
- Use the arrow buttons on the steering wheel to navigate to the “Settings” menu, then select “Vehicle Settings.”
- Scroll down to “Blind Spot Monitor” and press “Enter.”
- Select “On” or “Off” to enable or disable the BSM feature, then press “Enter.”
Benefits of Blind Spot Monitor in Lexus
1. Improved Safety:
The main benefit of the BSM system is to increase safety by spotting vehicles in your blind spots. The BSM system employs sensors and cameras to find nearby but unseen cars.
With the BSM light, the system warns you of the existence of these cars, assisting you in avoiding collisions and making safer lane changes.
Increased convenience:
By eliminating the need to physically check blind spots, the BSM system also makes driving more convenient.
The BSM system instantly checks your blind spots for you, saving you from having to turn your head or look over your shoulder. When driving on congested highways or in heavy traffic, this feature can be particularly useful.
2. Enhanced Comfort:
By reducing tension and fatigue, using the BSM system can also improve your driving comfort. You can relax and concentrate on driving without worrying about blind spots when you know that the BSM system is working to identify other vehicles.
When Should I Use the BSM System in my Lexus?
1. When Changing Lanes
On the highway, the BSM system is especially helpful when shifting lanes. It helps to notify you with the BSM light on the corresponding side mirror as you get close to the lane you want to shift into if there are any vehicles in your blind spot. This enables you to make a safer lane shift and check your blind spot.
2. When Driving in Traffic
If you’re driving in heavy traffic, the BSM system can help you avoid collisions with vehicles that may be close to your car but out of your line of sight.
By keeping the BSM system enabled, you can be more aware of your surroundings and make safer driving decisions.
3. When Driving in Poor Weather Conditions
It can be more difficult to see other cars on the road when there is bad weather present. In this situation, the BSM system can be useful in spotting and warning you of vehicles in your blind zone.
Read: Power Steering Assist Fault Ford Fusion
Conclusion
The Lexus Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) system is an important safety feature. It assists you in detecting vehicles in blind spots to avoid possible accidents.
The BSM light in the side mirrors is an important indicator that warns drivers of other vehicles’ existence and tells them to be cautious when changing lanes or merging into traffic.
Drivers can make safer choices on the road and reduce the risk of collisions by understanding how the BSM system works.
To ensure your own and others’ safety, it’s always important to obey traffic laws and practice safe driving practices. Driving a Lexus can be safer and more enjoyable with the assistance of the BSM system.