Whether you're buying a new or used car it's important that you don't overlook the available safety features.
Choosing a car that comes with standard or optional features, like a backup camera or Forward Collusion Warning, compared to one with only the basics, could mean the difference between a fatal accident and a close call.
With that in mind, here's five available safety features you shouldn't overlook.
1. Backup camera:
What is it?
At one point backup cameras were just available for luxury models. Now the feature is a popular option on midrange vehicles to give more drivers a better view while pulling out of a driveway or a parking spot.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recently announced that all passenger vehicles have to have a back-up camera by May 2018. In other words, you'll have to invest in a backup camera at some point, so why wait?
How much does it cost?
You don't even need to get a new car to get a backup camera. Devices can be purchased for around $100-$500 and professional installation can add another $100 to the cost.
2. Adaptive Cruise Control:
What is it?
Those with modern cruise control know that the feature offers a lot more than just maintaining a steady speed. Cruise control can now adjust brakes and throttle to keep a reasonable distance away from other cars in front of you if things occur to change traffic speed.
Most modern systems are designed to brake and make sure seatbelts are tight if sensors and radars detect a possible collision. Once traffic has sped up again the vehicle will return to cruising speed.
How much does it cost?
Prices for adaptive cruise control depend on the vehicle you're looking to buy. For example, the package for the 2014 Toyota Highlander costs about $1,400.
3. Forward Collision Warning:
What is it?
This system is designed to use radars, lasers and/ or cameras to detect when a vehicle is ahead and if it should alert drivers if they're getting too close too fast. The system sends out a vibration alert on the steering wheel or an audible alert to get driver's attention back on the road.
How much is it?
Forward Collision Warning is optional for most vehicles and can cost up to $1,500 on many vehicles.
4. Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems:
What is it?
These systems are designed to monitor the air pressure inside a vehicle's tires and keep drivers informed through a gauge, low-pressure warning light or display. With this system you never have to worry about physically checking your tire's air pressure again. It also means if you find yourself changing a flat in the pouring rain on a highway, don't blame your car.
How much is it?
NHTSA mandated tire pressure monitoring systems as of the 2007 model year, so if you're thinking of getting a new car the kit costs about $5 to $10 per wheel for most vehicles.
5. Inflatable Seat Belts:
What is it?
Ford introduced the industry's first production inflatable seatbelt back in 2010 as an option in the second-row seats of its larger models. The Detroit automaker advertises the belts as a more comfortable option than normal seat belts and safer in the event of an accident.
During a crash, the belt distributes up to five times more crash forces across more of a passenger's chest than a traditional belt. Spreading the pressure over a larger area reduces pressure on the passenger's torso.
Whether you strap in a child or an elderly person, these belts are beneficial no matter who is wearing it.
How much is it?
They're available on vehicles like the 2014 Lincoln MKT for $190 and the Ford Flex for $195.
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