When shopping for a used car, you might prioritize qualities like handling, cargo space, or comfort. It’s also important to look at what car safety features are present to help prevent injury to you and your passengers. Here are a few that you’ll want to keep in mind during your search.
4 Car Safety Features to Look for in a Used Car
1. Crash-Resistant Structure
A vehicle’s ability to absorb impacts will contribute significantly to survivability during severe accidents and auto manufacturers have developed multiple ways to improve it. For instance, crumple zones help form areas of a car’s body that are most likely to be hit and are designed to crumple on itself in order to better absorb the energy of a collision. The result is reduced force directed towards occupants.
Passenger compartments can also be reinforced with materials like high-strength steel in key areas and anti-intrusion bars that provide protection from side impacts.
2. Airbag System
Cars manufactured in recent decades are required to have airbag systems that protect both the driver and front passenger. The latest regulations require sensors that can determine a person’s weight in order to deploy more safely and reduce the chance of injury.
While a minimum of two front airbags are mandated, a number of automakers have installed systems with multiple airbags for each occupant. You’ll want a car with airbags placed in the door panel or seat to provide side protection for a person’s head and torso. Some vehicles may include additional airbags for rear passengers, as well.
3. Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Also called dynamic stability control (DSC), this system will aid the driver when it senses a loss in steering control due to going over a surface with reduced traction or incorrect inputs during a turn. The system will automatically engage the brakes to restore traction and help the driver steer in the direction they want to go. Power can also be reduced to prevent further slipping.
A traction control system (TCS) is often included with ESC and activates when it detects excessive throttle input for the current surface conditions. TCS will then cut the power until control is restored. You can expect all 2012 and later models to feature ESC thanks to a government mandate.
4. Advanced Driver-Assist Technology
Automobile radars and cameras have come a long way and partner with computers to help drivers avoid collisions. Many used cars manufactured in the last decade come with pre-collision detection systems that are capable of automatically braking to prevent impact with another vehicle or pedestrian. Lane-keeping systems are also available and can help a car return to its lane if it senses drifting.
Some newer used cars even include technology that will alert you when you’re too tired to drive by analyzing your steering inputs while differentiating from possibilities like having to adapt to uneven roads or making a lane change.
A used car’s performance, luxuries, and number of speakers might be more fun, but you should never neglect to take a look at its safety features. Remember these potentially life-saving systems and visit Fairway Auto Center today to learn more!
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