When we drive around in our cars, trucks and SUVs, we want to feel safe. We hope the design and performance of vehicle help to avoid any accidents. However, if we are in an accident, we want to feel like we will be as protected as possible.
Here are 7 of the most important safety features in your car. It's important to understand these systems and make sure you are taking care of the necessary maintenance and repairs that will eventually help take better care of you and your passengers.
1. Antilock Braking System (ABS)
All modern vehicles feature an antilock braking system that prevents the brakes from locking up when coming to a quick and violent stop. If the brakes were to lock up, the car could skid out of control and lead to a bad accident. It's important to keep your entire brake system healthy with regular maintenance and inspections, which should also include testing the ABS calibration to make sure the system is working properly.
2. Airbags
Another relatively modern feature that continues to evolve is the airbag system. What started as one simple airbag in the steering wheel has led to even more complex and effective designs with multiple airbags ready to deploy based on the angle and force of impact. You hope your airbags never have to deploy and there really isn't much maintenance required. If you have been in an accident, you will want to get the used airbags replaced if the vehicle is repairable.
3. Headlights and Tail Lights
One often overlooked safety feature is the exterior lighting of your car. Your headlights are extremely important as they provide visibility for you at night or in poor weather conditions. They also allow other drivers and pedestrians to see you coming. The tail lights, brake lights, turn signals, fog lights and other exterior lights all play key visibility and signaling roles. If a bulb is out or a light is damaged, you will want to fix it as soon as possible for improved safety.
4. Electronic Stability Control
All vehicles built since 2012 include an electronic stability control system that uses sensors to prevent skidding and sliding. The sensors can sometimes fail or give false readings, so it's important to have the system professionally recalibrated from time to time.
5. Wheels and Tires
The wheels and tires aren't always thought of as safety features, but they are you only contact with the road. Your tires must have good traction and your wheels should perform properly. If your tire treads are getting low or you have wheel bearing issues, you will want to get them replaced as soon as possible.
6. Power Steering System
Your steering system gives you control on the road. Whether you have an older fluid-based power steering design or a newer electronic power steering system, it may require periodic maintenance and inspections to ensure that you have better control when driving.
7. Other Safety Features
There are numerous other safety features, especially in newer cars. There are many sensors, traction control systems, lane-keep assist, on-board cameras and other components that provide you with better safety and visibility. Don't take any of these systems for granted. If you think you might have a problem, get it checked out by a professional mechanic who understands these modern vehicle features.
If you want to keep your vehicle running right and performing as safely as possible, contact the Colorado Springs automotive specialists at LightHouse Automotive for all your auto repair and maintenance services. Call us today at (719) 465-0305 or schedule your service appointment online.