Retrofitting the exit warning system: a short guide!

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The retrofitting of Exit warningsIn order to avoid dooring accidents, this is an important issue these days when road safety is becoming more and more important. Exit warning are an additional safety feature as they warn the occupants of approaching road users before they get out. The technology is particularly useful in urban areas with heavy traffic and confusing parking conditions. The installation (retrofitting) of the Warning systems can reduce the risk of accidents, especially collisions with cyclists and pedestrians. The Retrofit options range from manufacturer-specific solutions to universal third-party kits. The following article gives a brief overview of the different ones Retrofit options, Installation procedure and Offerer.

Possibilities of retrofitting

There are various ways to integrate exit warning systems into the vehicle. The most popular options are:

1. OEM-Solutions (Original Equipment Manufacturer): Some manufacturers also offer exit warning systems as retrofit options. The systems are specially developed for the respective vehicle and integrate seamlessly into the existing system.
2. Third Party Solutions: Some independent companies offer universal retrofit kits. These are often less expensive and can be installed in a variety of vehicles.
3. DIY solutions: For the tech-savvy, there are even DIY kits that allow for customization and installation.

Fitting and installation

The Mounting an exit warning can vary depending on the solution chosen:

• OEM solutions often require a specialist as they are connected directly to the vehicle system and often need to be unlocked or otherwise configured.
• Third-party solutions can be easier to install, often with plug-and-play systems that require less technical expertise. However, there are hardly any providers/products so far.
• DIY kits offer the greatest flexibility, but usually require extensive knowledge of vehicle electronics. Here, too, there are hardly any providers/options so far.
• Providers of exit warnings are Bosch, Valeo or Portugal.

Factory retrofits vs. third-party suppliers

While some vehicle manufacturers Factory exit warning system offer, the majority of options consist of retrofit solutions from third-party. These allow greater flexibility in terms of cost and compatibility with different vehicles. However, there are currently almost no really good third-party systems known that can be easily retrofitted and also function reliably.

Example: Audi side assist (blind spot warning)

Retrofitting the red LED exit warning is an addition to vehicles with Audi side assist (blind spot warning). The warning increases safety when exiting by alerting you to approaching vehicles or bicycles by flashing the LEDs in the door panels.

Important requirements

• Compatibility: Make sure the vehicle is equipped with Audi side assist.
  • Carefully remove the Door panels and trim.
  • Install the LED modules above the door handles.
  • Move that cableset according to the instructions and connect it.
  • Assembly: Reinstall the door panels and trim.
  • VCDS software: After installation, you need to code the vehicle using the VCDS software. To do this, follow the steps in the coding instructions.

 

Summary

• Retrofitting exit warning systems is a worthwhile investment in safety. Whether you choose an OEM solution, a third-party kit or a DIY option depends on specific needs, budget and your technical skills. We hope that you will find our information report on the topic/term Retrofit exit warning system (Other names/keywords are: Exit Warning System, Door Opening Alert, Side Exit Assistance, Vehicle Exit Safety System, Door Edge Warning, Safe Exit Assist, Exit Collision Prevention, Door Open Warning System, Egress Alert System, Exit Traffic Alert) liked. Our goal is to be the largest German-language tuning dictionary (Tuning Wikipedia) to create. You can see how far we have come HERE . see

Avoiding dooring accidents

Dooring accidents, in which cyclists, e-scooter users or moped riders collide with suddenly opened car doors, are a serious danger in road traffic. Such accidents often occur when cycle paths run alongside parked cars and can have serious consequences. Therefore, mutual consideration and attention from all road users is essential.

Tips for drivers and passengers:

• Watch traffic: Keep in mind that e-scooters have difficulty braking and avoiding, and e-bikes are faster than normal bikes.
• Be careful when getting out: Take a look over your shoulder and look in the mirror.
• Door opening technology: Use the opposite hand to open the door to automatically look over your shoulder.
• Open door slowly: Avoid opening the car door suddenly.
• Instructions for children: Make sure children do not open doors without supervision.

Tips for Cyclist, e-scooter and e-bike riders:

• Stay alert: Watch traffic and especially parked vehicles carefully.
• Keep enough distance: Keep enough distance from parked cars to be able to react to sudden door openings.
• Braking readiness: Drive at an appropriate speed and always be ready to brake.

Names of the systems:

Different vehicle manufacturers have their own specific names for systems designed to: Dooring accidents to prevent or increase safety in the area of ​​the vehicle doors:

• Audi – “Exit Warning System”: Audi uses this name for the system that warns when other road users approach while they want to get out.
• Mercedes-Benz – “Active Blind Spot Assist”: At Mercedes-Benz the system is part of the Blind spot assistants and can warn when getting out.
• BMW – “Door Exit Warning”: BMW uses this name for their system, which works similarly to Audi and Mercedes-Benz.
• Volvo – “Cross Traffic Alert”: Although it is primarily designed as a reversing aid, this system from Volvo can also help you get out by warning of approaching vehicles or cyclists.
• Tesla – “Auto-Open Doors”: Tesla has systems that automate the opening of doors, using sensors to avoid collisions.
• Ford – “Door Edge Protector”: Ford has developed a mechanical door edge protector that extends when the door is opened and can thus prevent collisions. Ford also has one Exit warning like Audi & Co.
• Lexus – “Blind Spot Monitor”: Similar to other manufacturers, Lexus uses sensors to warn of road users when getting out.
• Chevrolet – “Rear Cross Traffic Alert”: Chevrolet also has systems that warn of cross traffic when reversing and potentially also when getting out.
• Honda – “Cross Traffic Monitor”: Honda’s system works similarly and warns of vehicles or cyclists approaching from behind.
• Hyundai – “Safe Exit Assist”: Hyundai's system warns passengers when exiting if a vehicle is approaching from behind to prevent collisions.

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