A client from Midlothian recently brought his 2013 Volvo XC60 to Extreme Audio for a blind spot detection system installation. Though Volvo vehicles are well known for their safety features, this particular XC60 wagon didn’t come with a blind spot monitoring solution. After talking to the client and inspecting the vehicle, we developed a plan to give him the added protection he wanted.
US Spec BSM 200 Blind Spot Detection System
When the owner of this Volvo XC60 asked for a blind spot monitor solution, we knew the US Spec BSM 200 was a perfect choice. This system includes a pair of microwave radar sensors that detect the presence of objects beside and behind the vehicle.
When operating in the blind spot monitoring mode at speeds above 18.5 mph, the system monitors each lane beside the vehicle for up to 33 feet behind the B-pillar. If a vehicle traveling at more than six mph is in this zone, a bright orange indicator will illuminate to let the driver know someone is beside or just behind them. If the driver activates the turn signal, a warning tone is produced so that he’ll know someone is in his way.
Unlike other systems we have seen, the BSM 200 will provide a warning for vehicles directly beside you, thanks to the sensitivity and optimized coverage from the microwave sensors. This system also provides an alert for vehicles you have passed and not just for those approaching from behind.
Rear Cross Traffic Alert System
The US Spec BSM 200 switches to RCTA (rear cross traffic alert) mode when the vehicle is in reverse. Each microwave sensor monitors for objects entering the 98-foot-long detection zone on either side of the vehicle. If you are backing out of a parking spot or your driveway, you will receive a warning if someone is approaching. To prevent false alarms, the system ignores stationary objects like fence posts, concrete pillars in a parking garage and parked vehicles.
Expert Safety System Installation
We created heavy-duty steel mounting brackets for the microwave sensors and located them on either side of the rear bumper. All of the wiring for the safety system was shielded from damage with split-loom tubing and was routed along factory wire channels for added protection. We mounted the warning indicators at the base of the A-pillar trim panels to ensure they are easily visible when illuminated.
The client was impressed with the tidy installation of his new blind spot detection system. If you are interested in upgrading the safety and collision avoidance features of your vehicle, drop by Extreme Audio in Midlothian or Mechanicsville. For more information or to schedule a consultation, give us a call or send an e-mail using our online contact page.
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