What is the BSM system?
BSM stands for Blind Spot Monitor, an advanced safety system that helps drivers detect objects in their “blind spots”. This system uses sensors to monitor the area around your car or truck and will alert you if another vehicle enters your blind spot.
The BSM system also alerts you when a vehicle is approaching from behind at high speed. That feature is known as rear cross-traffic alert and turns on and off with the BSM system.
How does the BSM System Work?
The BSM system uses radar sensors to monitor the area around your car. These sensors detect objects that enter your blind spot and then alert you with an audible warning and a blinking light on the mirrors.
Additionally, when reversing, the rear-cross traffic alert will sound if it detects any vehicles approaching from either side of your vehicle.
Toyota BSM Light
The BSM light is a yellow light on your Toyota’s side mirror that indicates the system has detected a vehicle in your blind spot.
The light will stay on as long as a vehicle is detected. The BSM light will flash if you signal that you are entering a lane the system detects a vehicle in.
When Does the BSM System Activate
On most Toyota models, the BSM system will activate when the vehicle reaches speeds over ten miles an hour. By default, the system turns on every time you start your Toyota.
How Do You Turn the BSM System Off
You can turn the BSM system off in your vehicle in two different ways. Be aware that if you turn off the BSM system, it also shuts the rear cross-traffic alert off.
Physical Switch
Some Toyota vehicles come with a physical switch, it’ll be labeled BSM or have a picture of a blind spot. If there is a physical button, it’ll be to the left of your steering wheel. Most models don’t have this button.
Menu
If your Toyota doesn’t have a physical switch for the BSM system, you can still turn it off in the menu. Here’s how:
- Select the gear icon in the steering wheel options
- Scroll to the BSM and Rear Cross Traffic Alert option
- Press OK to turn it on and off
How do you recalibrate the Toyota BSM system?
In the event that the BSM radar system has an alignment issue, a qualified mechanic can recalibrate it with a scan tool. Here’s how to recalibrate the BSM system.
You should only do this if your vehicle has been in a collision or you’ve had to repair part of the BSM system, otherwise the BSM system calibrates itself whenever you start the vehilce.
BSM Not Working: Likely Causes
The most common reason the Toyota BSM system fails to work properly is if mud gets on the radar sensor.
Debris
The Toyota blind spot monitoring system is incredibly reliable. If it isn’t working, you should check the radar sensors and make sure they are clean. Once you do this, you’ll need to restart the vehicle’s engine, and the BSM system will recalibrate itself.
Sensor Issue
If your Toyota has taken damage where the BSM sensor is located, it’ll need to be taken a shop to be recalibrated.