Turn off Side Assist through the MMI by navigating to Settings or Driver Assistance and selecting Side Assist to Off. Some Audi models also offer a dedicated button to disable the feature.
What Side Assist does
Side Assist is Audi’s blind-spot and lane-change warning system. It uses radar sensors to monitor adjacent lanes and alerts you if a vehicle is in your blind spot or approaching from behind. While it enhances safety, you may choose to disable it in certain driving situations or for personal preference. Keep in mind that turning it off reduces awareness of nearby traffic in adjacent lanes.
How to turn off Side Assist on most Audi models
Follow these steps to disable Side Assist on typical Audi models. The exact menu names can vary by model and year, but the general path is consistent across the MMI system.
- Press the CAR or Menu button on the center console to access the MMI main menu.
- Navigate to Settings or Car, then select Driver Assistance (or Driver Assist).
- Select Side Assist or Blind Spot Warning from the list of features.
- Toggle the Side Assist option to Off and confirm if prompted.
- Exit the menus and verify that warnings no longer appear when vehicles are in your blind spots.
When Side Assist is Off, you will not receive its warnings. You can re-enable it at any time by repeating the steps above and turning the feature back On.
Temporary or quick-toggle methods (model variations)
In some trims, there may be a dedicated button or switch labeled “Side Assist” or with the blind-spot icon on the dash, steering stalk, or center console. Pressing or toggling this control can disable the system quickly. If you don’t see a dedicated control, consult your owner’s manual for the exact location and procedure for your model year.
Safety considerations
Disabling Side Assist removes a safety layer designed to help you detect vehicles in your blind spots. Always perform manual shoulder checks and rely on mirrors when Side Assist is off. Re-enable the system when you no longer need temporary deactivation, especially in heavy traffic or highway driving.
Summary
Most Audi owners can turn off Side Assist through the MMI by going to Settings > Driver Assistance > Side Assist and choosing Off. Some models also provide a dedicated button for quick disablement. Remember the safety implications and re-enable Side Assist when you’re returning to regular driving conditions.