This comes up a lot in other threads, so I thought I'd start a dedicated one just to keep all of the facts and opinions in one place. I'll update the first post (if I can) when something new comes up that we can verify. Be nice... 😸
The facts:
Subaru's EyeSight system uses stereo cameras (no radar or lidar), so it relies on what it can "see" through the windshield. If its field of view is compromised, it will not perform as well, we just don't know by how much.
For example, Subaru states in the EyeSight manual:
"The characteristics of the stereo camera are similar to those of human
eyes. For this reason, conditions that make it difficult for the driver to see
in the forward direction have the same effect on the stereo camera. They
also make it difficult for the system to detect vehicles, obstacles, and traffic
lanes."
The manual also states that you should not install anything on the windshield, dashboard or hood that could interfere with EyeSight's field of view:
"Do not install any accessories other than the ones designated by SUBARU on the
prohibited areas shown in the illustrations (grey zones)."
NOTE: it's not just something that might obscure the cameras but something on the dash that might create a reflection that EyeSight is not expecting to see.
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Also, the manual states not to apply any coatings or film to the windshield (which would including tinting, Rain-X, etc.)
Opinion:
My opinion, and that of some others who have posted here, is that just because EyeSight hasn't completely shut off does NOT mean that it's working at its full potential. Active Cruise Control may be working but EyeSight may not be able to prevent an accident as effectively with emergency braking.
From the manual (emphasis added):
"Under the conditions listed below, it will become more difficult for the system
to detect the vehicle in front, motorcycles, bicycles, pedestrians and
obstacles on the road, and lane markers...
- Bad weather (for example heavy rain, a blizzard or thick fog). In particular,
the system is more likely to temporarily stop operating when there is
an oil film adhering to the windshield, a glass coating has been applied,
or poorly performing wipers are used."
To me, that phrase, "it will become more difficult", implies that EyeSight is not ON or OFF, but that it degrades as conditions worsen. So, if you install something on the windshield, the dash, or the hood, then EyeSight may appear to be working (e.g. Active Cruise Control still seems to work) but it may not be working at optimal efficiency to avoid accidents, etc.
The observations of this member confirm that:
www.subaruxvforum.com
That's why my advice is always NOT to install anything on the windshield, dash or hood that could interfere with EyeSight.
FWIW, our dash cam is mounted at the top of the driver's side, just outside of the no go zone. In that position it shows the driver's view, which is probably a good thing.
Regarding tinting, here's what I found with a quick Google search:
www.carmeltint.com
The facts:
Subaru's EyeSight system uses stereo cameras (no radar or lidar), so it relies on what it can "see" through the windshield. If its field of view is compromised, it will not perform as well, we just don't know by how much.
For example, Subaru states in the EyeSight manual:
"The characteristics of the stereo camera are similar to those of human
eyes. For this reason, conditions that make it difficult for the driver to see
in the forward direction have the same effect on the stereo camera. They
also make it difficult for the system to detect vehicles, obstacles, and traffic
lanes."
The manual also states that you should not install anything on the windshield, dashboard or hood that could interfere with EyeSight's field of view:
"Do not install any accessories other than the ones designated by SUBARU on the
prohibited areas shown in the illustrations (grey zones)."
NOTE: it's not just something that might obscure the cameras but something on the dash that might create a reflection that EyeSight is not expecting to see.
Also, the manual states not to apply any coatings or film to the windshield (which would including tinting, Rain-X, etc.)
Opinion:
My opinion, and that of some others who have posted here, is that just because EyeSight hasn't completely shut off does NOT mean that it's working at its full potential. Active Cruise Control may be working but EyeSight may not be able to prevent an accident as effectively with emergency braking.
From the manual (emphasis added):
"Under the conditions listed below, it will become more difficult for the system
to detect the vehicle in front, motorcycles, bicycles, pedestrians and
obstacles on the road, and lane markers...
- Bad weather (for example heavy rain, a blizzard or thick fog). In particular,
the system is more likely to temporarily stop operating when there is
an oil film adhering to the windshield, a glass coating has been applied,
or poorly performing wipers are used."
To me, that phrase, "it will become more difficult", implies that EyeSight is not ON or OFF, but that it degrades as conditions worsen. So, if you install something on the windshield, the dash, or the hood, then EyeSight may appear to be working (e.g. Active Cruise Control still seems to work) but it may not be working at optimal efficiency to avoid accidents, etc.
The observations of this member confirm that:
Did the unspeakable...Cleaned eyesight lens (caps)
I've posted in the past regarding the problem I'm having with the eyesight system. Without rehashing too much, it would fail (shut off) at night multiple times for no reason. I took it to two dealers, one said nothing wrong the other claimed fingerprints were on the lens. SOA said because of...
www.subaruxvforum.com
That's why my advice is always NOT to install anything on the windshield, dash or hood that could interfere with EyeSight.
FWIW, our dash cam is mounted at the top of the driver's side, just outside of the no go zone. In that position it shows the driver's view, which is probably a good thing.
Regarding tinting, here's what I found with a quick Google search:
Subaru Eyesight Warning
If you own a vehicle with Subaru Eyesight, you will need to read this page so you are informed on our policy with regard to this feature.
www.carmeltint.com
