The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a popular SUV known for its rugged capabilities and advanced safety features. One of these features is the Blind Spot Alert system, which helps drivers be aware of vehicles in their blind spots. The settings for the Blind Spot Alert can be adjusted to suit the driver’s preferences. In this article, we will guide you through the process of adjusting the Blind Spot Alert settings in a Jeep Grand Cherokee.
How Blind Spot Monitoring works in Jeep Grand Cherokee
It is important to note that the Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system in the Jeep Grand Cherokee uses radar sensors located inside the rear fascia/bumper to detect vehicles entering the blind spot zones from the rear, front, or side of the vehicle. The system operates when the vehicle is in any forward gear.
The BSM detection zone covers approximately one lane in width on both sides of the vehicle, extending about 12 feet (3.8 meters) from the side of the vehicle and approximately 10 feet (3 meters) beyond the rear fascia/bumper. The system monitors the detection zones when the vehicle speed reaches approximately 6 mph (10 km/h) or higher and alerts the driver of vehicles in these areas. The alert is more immediate for faster-approaching vehicles, with a difference of up to 33 mph (54 km/h).
It is worth mentioning that the BSM system does not account for objects in the adjacent lane when the vehicle is towing a trailer. Therefore, it is essential to visually verify that both the vehicle and trailer have a clear adjacent lane before making a lane change. If an object extends beyond the side of your vehicle, such as a trailer or other equipment, false detections and chimes may occur when using the turn signal.
Keep the sensors clean
To ensure the proper functioning of the BSM system, it is crucial to keep the rear fascia/bumper clear of snow, ice, mud, or other road contaminants. Blockage of the radar sensors can lead to temporary unavailability of the Blind Spot Alert system, as indicated by a warning message and illuminated mirror lights. The system will automatically recover and resume its function when the blockage clears or after an ignition cycle.
BSM warning light on mirrors
When the BSM system detects objects in the blind spot detection zones, it illuminates the BSM Warning Light located in the outside mirrors. Additionally, when the turn signal is activated on the side corresponding to the alert, an audible chime is heard, accompanied by a reduction in the radio volume.
Designed to detect moving vehicles
The BSM system monitors the detection zones from three different entry points: side, rear, and front. It issues alerts when vehicles enter these zones from the respective directions. It is designed to detect vehicles moving into adjacent lanes from either side, vehicles approaching from behind with a relative speed of less than 33 mph (54 km/h), and vehicles overtaking at a relative speed of less than 15 mph (24 km/h).
False alerts
The BSM system is not intended to issue alerts for stationary objects such as guardrails, posts, walls, or foliage. However, occasional false alerts on such objects may occur, which is considered normal operation. The system is not designed to detect objects traveling in the opposite direction of the vehicle in adjacent lanes.
Not a substitute for vigilant driving
It is crucial to understand that the Blind Spot Monitoring system is an aid to help detect objects in the blind spot zones but is not a substitute for proper checking of mirrors, looking over your shoulder, and using your turn signal before changing lanes. Always exercise caution and follow standard driving practices to ensure your safety and the safety of others.
Adjusting Blind Spot Alert settings
To access the Blind Spot Alert settings, follow these steps:
- On the center screen of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, locate the bottom category bar.
- Tap on the “Vehicle” option in the bottom category bar.
- In the top right corner, you will find the “Settings” option. Tap on it.
- A menu will appear on the left side of the screen. Scroll down and look for “Safety & Driving Assistance.” Tap on it.
Once you have reached the “Safety & Driving Assistance” menu, you will find a list of options on the right side of the screen. Scroll down until you see the “Blind Spot Alert” option. This option allows you to change the type of alert provided when an object is detected in your vehicle’s blind spot.
There are three settings available for the Blind Spot Alert:
Off
This setting will turn off the Blind Spot Alert system completely.
Lights
Selecting this setting will activate the Blind Spot Alert lights on the outside mirrors. When a vehicle is detected in your blind spot, the lights on the mirrors will illuminate, providing a visual alert.
Lights & Chime
This setting not only activates the lights on the outside mirrors but also includes an audible chime. When a vehicle is detected in your blind spot, the lights on the mirrors will illuminate, and you will hear an audible alert.
Choose the setting that suits your preferences by tapping on the respective option. Once you have made your selection, the Blind Spot Alert system will operate according to your chosen setting.
Rear Cross Path (RCP) system
In addition to the Blind Spot Alert system, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is equipped with Rear Cross Path (RCP) detection, which aids drivers when backing out of parking spaces. The RCP system detects oncoming vehicles and alerts the driver to proceed cautiously.
RCP monitors the rear detection zones on both sides of the vehicle, detecting objects moving toward the vehicle’s side with speeds ranging from approximately 5 mph (8 km/h) to a maximum of approximately 20 mph (32 km/h). However, if the sensors are blocked by structures or other vehicles, the system may not be able to issue alerts.
Similar to the Blind Spot Alert system, it is essential to check behind your vehicle, look for pedestrians, animals, obstructions, and blind spots before backing up, even when using RCP. The RCP system is not a backup aid and should be used as an additional tool to enhance your awareness while parking.
Conclusion
To summarize, the Jeep Grand Cherokee offers adjustable Blind Spot Alert settings that allow drivers to customize the type of alerts they receive when a vehicle is detected in their blind spots. By accessing the “Safety & Driving Assistance” menu through the center screen, drivers can choose between three settings: Off, Lights, or Lights & Chime. These settings determine whether the Blind Spot Alert lights on the outside mirrors and/or an audible chime will be activated when a vehicle is detected in the blind spot zones.
Always remember that the Blind Spot Alert and Rear Cross Path systems are designed to assist drivers but should not replace proper mirror usage, checking blind spots, and using turn signals. Stay vigilant and follow safe driving practices to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road.
