If you’re driving a Toyota RAV4, you may have seen the letters “BSM” on the dashboard. But what do they mean?
BSM stands for Blind Spot Monitor. The Blind Spot Monitor is a system that helps to keep you safe while driving by detecting vehicles in your blind spot and warning you when it’s time to change lanes.
This blog post will discuss the features of the Blind Spot Monitor and how it can help you stay safe on the road.
How Does Blind Spot Monitor System Work in Toyota RAV4?
The Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) system is designed to assist the driver in safely changing lanes. It does so by providing visual and audible alerts when vehicles are detected in the blind spot.
The system uses two radar sensors, mounted on either side of the rear bumper, to scan the blind spot regions.
When a vehicle is detected, an LED warning light illuminates the corresponding mirror. If the turn signal is then activated, an audible alert sounds to warn the driver.
The BSM system can be turned off using a switch on the lower left portion of the instrument panel, and can also be deactivated if desired.
It should be noted that the BSM system is not a substitute for safe driving practices, and drivers should always check their mirrors and shoulder-check before changing lanes.
However, the BSM system can provide an extra level of safety for drivers who may be distracted or otherwise not aware of vehicles in their blind spot.
What are the Benefits of the BSM System?
The BSM system is just one of the many features that make the Toyota RAV4 a safe and reliable vehicle. It has got a bundle of benefits.
1. Assists Drivers:
When you’re driving, it’s vital to be aware of your surroundings. This is especially true when you’re changing lanes, as there may be vehicles in your blind spot that you’re not aware of.
Blind spot monitors can help you avoid accidents by alerting you to the presence of vehicles in your blind spot so that you can take action to avoid them.
You will hear an audible warning or dashboard light if BSM detects the presence of vehicles in your blind spot. If you see the warning light or hear the audible warning, you should check your mirrors and blind spot before changing lanes.
Blind spot monitors can be a valuable addition to any vehicle, but they’re especially helpful for larger vehicles like trucks and SUVs like Toyota RAV4. These vehicles have larger blind spots, so it’s more likely that another vehicle could be in your blind spot when you’re changing lanes.
2. Rear Oncoming Vehicle:
BSM can also detect vehicles approaching from the rear. If BSM detects a vehicle approaching from the rear, an LED warning light will illuminate the corresponding mirror.
You may also hear an audible alert. You should check your mirrors and shoulder-check before backing up to make sure it’s safe to do so.
3. Helps Drivers in Parking:
Parallel parking or parking in tight spots can be a real challenge, especially if you have to contend with other cars and obstacles.
Even the most experienced drivers can find it difficult to judge distances, and many accidents occur each year as a result of poor parking decisions.
Thankfully, vehicles like Toyota RAV4 are equipped with advanced safety features like a blind spot monitor (BSM). BSM can make close-quarter parking much easier and safer.
BSM sensors can be an invaluable tool when parallel parking or backing into a tight space, as they can help you avoid colliding with another car or object.
While BSM can be a helpful parking aid, it’s important to note that it is not a replacement for good judgment and driver awareness.
Always take your time when parallel parking or backing into a space, and use your mirrors and turn signals to indicate your intentions to other drivers.
4. Enhanced Safety:
The main purpose of the BSM system is to enhance safety on the road. BSM can help you avoid accidents by alerting you to the presence of vehicles in your blind spot, and it can also help you park safely in tight spaces.
In addition to these benefits, the Blind Spot Monitor system can also reduce traffic congestion. By helping drivers avoid accidents, BSM can help keep traffic flowing smoothly. This is good news for everyone who shares the road with Toyota RAV fours equipped with BSM technology.
How to Turn BSM On or Off in Toyota RAV4?
BSM can be turned on or off by pressing the BSM button. When BSM is turned on, the indicator light will remain off.
Some drivers prefer to keep BSM off because they find the audible warnings annoying. Others like having BSM turned on because it provides an extra measure of safety when changing lanes.
Let’s see in more detail how to turn it on in different versions of RAV4. To turn BSM on or off in your Toyota RAV4, do the following:
- Press and hold the SETUP button on the steering wheel until the multi-information display changes.
- Use the UP or DOWN arrow buttons to scroll through the menu options until you see “BSM” on the screen.
- Select “BSM” by pressing the OK button.
- Use the UP or DOWN arrow buttons to select either “ON” or “OFF.”
- Press and hold the SETUP button again to save your selection and exit the menu.
- In some versions of Toyota RAV4, a dedicated button for BSM may be present on the instrument panel near the multi-information display.
- Or in some cases, a button is given on your steering wheel.
- If your vehicle is equipped with this type of button, simply press it.
- Hold the BSM button to turn the system OFF and the BSM light will appear on the dashboard.
- The BSM system is automatically turned back on each time the vehicle is started.
- If you would like to have the BSM system turned off permanently, consult your Toyota dealer.
- They will need to enter a special code into the vehicle’s computer to disable the system.
- This can usually be done at no charge during a regularly scheduled maintenance visit.
Causes of BSM Malfunction in Toyota RAV4
BSM is a complex system that relies on several different components to function properly. Some major causes for its malfunction are:
1. Faulty Radar Sensors:
The BSM system uses radar sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spot. If these sensors are not working properly, the system will not be able to detect vehicles in your blind spot, and it will not be able to provide you with the necessary warnings.
Radar sensors can become damaged or dirty, so it’s important to have them checked regularly by a qualified technician.
2. Broken Rear Bumper:
A broken vehicle’s rear bumper can cause the BSM (Blind Spot Monitoring) system to malfunction in your Toyota RAV4. The BSM system uses sensors to detect when other vehicles are in your blind spot and alerts you with a warning light on the mirror.
If the bumper is damaged, it can cause the sensors to become misaligned or obstructed, preventing the system from working properly. In some cases, the entire BSM system may need to be replaced if the damage is severe enough.
3. Wave Interference:
One common problem that can occur with the Toyota RAV4 is wave interference causing BSM malfunction. Wave interference is when two waves meet and interact with each other, causing them to change shape or amplitude.
This can happen when the RAV4 is driven on a road with uneven pavement or when it encounters a pothole. The wave interference can cause the Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) system to malfunction, which can be dangerous for the driver and passengers.
4. Low Battery Power:
There are a few reasons why low battery power may cause BSM Malfunction in your Toyota RAV4. First, if the battery is not providing enough power to the car, it can affect the operation of the BSM system.
Additionally, if you are getting a battery discharge warning, it may not be able to hold a charge as well, which can also lead to BSM Malfunction. Finally, if there is something wrong with the electrical system in the RAV4 itself, that could also be causing the problem.
How to Prevent BSM Malfunction in RAV4?
To prevent BSM malfunction, it is important to keep the following in mind:
- Do not clean or wash the radar sensors with high-pressure water.
- When washing the vehicle, be careful not to aim high-pressure water at the radar sensors.
- Do not place objects on or around the radar sensors.
- Do not apply wax or polish to the radar sensor areas.
- Do not stick labels or other materials on the radar sensor areas.
- Be careful when using an automated car wash; if possible, avoid having the sensors come into contact with the brushes.
- If the vehicle is to be parked for an extended period of time (more than one month), disconnect the negative (-) terminal of the battery to prevent discharge.
- Be careful not to damage the radar sensors when performing maintenance on the vehicle (such as replacing tires, bulbs, etc.).
- If damage is suspected, have the vehicle inspected by your Toyota dealer as soon as possible.
How to Fix Blind Spot Monitoring System Problems in Toyota RAV4?
Even after taking precautionary measures to prevent BSM malfunctions, they can still occur. If you experience any problems with the BSM system in RAV4 do the following:
1. Cleaning Sensors:
One way to try and fix the problem is to clean the sensors. You can do this by using a soft cloth and gently wiping them down. Be careful not to use any harsh chemicals or cleaners as they could damage the sensors.
If the sensors are still not working properly after being cleaned, you may need to have them replaced. Replacing the radar sensor is a relatively simple process that can be done by any qualified technician.
2. Calibration of Blind Side Monitor:
Another way to fix the problem is to calibrate the Blind Side Monitor. This can be done by your Toyota dealer or any qualified technician.
The calibration process involves setting the BSM system to its factory default settings. After the calibration is complete, the BSM system should be working properly again.
3. Reset BSM System:
If you have a Toyota RAV4 with a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) system, you may need to know how to reset the system if it becomes disabled. Here are some easy steps to follow to reset your BSM system:
- Park your RAV4 in a safe, open area where there are no objects nearby that could obstruct the BSM sensors.
- Turn off the engine and all lights.
- Locate the BSM ON/OFF switch, usually located on the left side of the instrument panel near the driver’s door or the steering wheel.
- Press and hold the BSM ON/OFF switch for 3 seconds or until you hear a beep. This will reset the system and enable it.
- Start the engine and drive normally. The BSM system should now be operational.
Don’t Rely on BSM System Under These Conditions
While BSM can be helpful, it’s important to remember that it’s not perfect. Here are some conditions where you should be extra careful when using BSM:
1. Poor weather conditions. BSM relies on sensors to detect other vehicles. If the sensors are covered in snow or ice, they may not work properly.
2. Night-time driving. BSM may not be as effective at night because it’s more difficult to spot other vehicles’ headlights in your blind spot.
3. Driving on a winding road. BSM may not be able to detect vehicles in your blind spot if you’re constantly changing lanes while driving on a winding road.
4. Distracted driving. If you’re not paying attention to the road, you might not notice that there’s a car in your blind spot, even if the BSM system is working properly.
5. Following closely behind another vehicle. If you’re following too closely behind another car, the BSM system may not have enough time to detect a car in your blind spot.
6. Steep inclines or declines. If you’re driving on a steep incline or decline, the BSM system may not be able to properly detect vehicles in your blind spot.
Conclusion
So, what does BSM mean on RAV4 and why is it important? We’ve answered those questions for you and also talked about what to do if there is a problem with your Blind Spot Monitor.
It’s important to remember that the system is not perfect and there are certain conditions where you should be extra careful when using it. Knowing the ins and outs of your car’s features can help you stay safe on the road.
If you have any other questions about your vehicle or its features, be sure to reach out to a trusted mechanic or dealership for more information. Thanks for reading!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of “check BSM system” in Toyota RAV4?
The check BSM system warning may come on your Toyota RAV4’s display panel when there is a problem with the Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) system. The BSM system uses radar sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spot and will alert you if one is detected.
If the check BSM system warning comes on, it means that there may be something wrong with the radar sensors or the system itself.
Why do you need a blind spot monitor system in RAV4?
One of the most useful aspects of a blind spot monitor system is that it can help you avoid accidents. By alerting you to the presence of other vehicles in your blind spot, you can make sure to check before changing lanes or making a turn. This can help you avoid potential accidents, and keep yourself and others safe on the road.
Another reason to consider a blind spot monitor system for your RAV4 is that it can improve your overall driving experience. Having this extra level of awareness can help you feel more confident on the road, and make your trips more enjoyable. Whether you’re commuting to work or taking a cross-country road trip, a blind spot monitor system can give you peace of mind.
What are the range and speed restrictions for BSM in RAV4?
BSM may not work if the vehicle is traveling under a speed of 20 kmph (12 mph), if it is too close to another vehicle, or if the environmental conditions are not ideal. BSM also uses GPS to calculate the vehicle’s position, so it may not work accurately in areas with weak GPS signals.
The working range of BSM is 16 ft (5 meters) from the rear bumper and 10 ft (3 meters) to either side. If a vehicle is within this range and is traveling at a speed that is lower than your vehicle, BSM will activate and provide visual and audible alerts.
Is BSM the same as rear cross-traffic alert?
No, BSM is not the same as a rear cross-traffic alert. A rear cross-traffic alert is a feature that uses sensors to detect vehicles approaching from the side or rear and gives an audible and visual warning to the driver.
BSM, on the other hand, uses radar technology to monitor the area around the vehicle and can provide information such as blind spot warnings and lane change assistance.
Is the blind spot monitor system worth it?
The short answer is yes, the blind spot monitor system is definitely worth it! Here are some reasons why:
- The blind spot monitor system can help prevent accidents. It does this by constantly monitoring your blind spots and letting you know when someone or something is in them. This way, you can avoid making dangerous lane changes or turning into oncoming traffic.
- The blind spot monitor system can help increase your visibility while driving. This is especially helpful at night or in bad weather conditions when it’s difficult to see what’s in your blind spots.
- The blind spot monitor helps give you peace of mind while driving. Knowing that you have an extra set of eyes watching out for you can help you relax and enjoy the road ahead.
Overall, the blind spot monitor system is a great addition to any car. It offers many benefits that can make your driving experience safer, more enjoyable, and worry-free.
