Side Blind Zone Alert Operation

When the vehicle is started, both side blind zone indicators located on the left and right outside rearview mirrors will briefly illuminate to indicate that the system is operating. The system is designed to detect objects in an area approximately between 0.5 m (1.5 ft) and 2 m (6 ft) off the ground. The side blind zone alert monitors the blind sport area along side the vehicle, approximately 3.5 m (11 ft) from the side of the vehicle, extending 5 m (16 ft) behind the mid-point of the vehicle. The system may light up an indicator due to guardrails, signs, trees, shrubs and other non-moving objects. This is normal system operation; the vehicle does not need service.

When the system detects a vehicle in the side blind zone while driving forward, an amber warning symbol will illuminate on the appropriate outside mirror. This indicates that it may be unsafe to change lanes. If the driver activates the turn signal, the amber warning symbol starts flashing as an extra warning not to change lanes.

Foul weather may affect the operation of the side blind zone system. Occasional missed alerts can occur under normal circumstances and will increase in wet conditions. The number of missed alerts will increase with increased rainfall or road spray. Heavy rainfall, as well as mud, dirt, snow, ice or slush build-up on the rear fascia, can completely disable the system.

If the vehicle is towing a trailer or has an object such as a bicycle rack attached to the rear of the vehicle, the side blind zone system may not function properly and the indicators may illuminate intermittently or remain illuminated all the time.