Safety First: Key Features to Consider When Buying a New or Used Car

Safety is one of the most crucial factors to assess when purchasing a car, whether new or used. While much of the focus is on the design, engine, and performance features, due diligence and thorough research are also necessary to find the right safety features to protect your loved ones in the event of any mishap. 

At Startin Group, we are committed to providing you with the best driving experience. Our team is dedicated to ensuring you make informed choices when it comes to purchasing vehicles that suit your preferences and also meet necessary safety standards as per government regulations.  

In this blog, our experts have outlined the top safety features to look for when buying a new or used vehicle. 

• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

Active safety features collectively known as Advanced Driver Assistance Systems include the latest technologies such as Lane assistance, Electronic stability control, Intelligent speed assistance, and Autonomous emergency braking that are designed to offer the next-level driver and passenger safety leading to reduced chances of mishaps. 

• Adaptive/Intelligent Cruise Control

Adaptive cruise control allows your car to slow down automatically if the car in front of you is moving at a slower speed, effectively helping to avoid a collision. You can set a target speed and if the vehicle in the front is moving below that, your car will slow down. You can always override the adaptive cruise control settings. 

• Tyre-pressure Monitoring Systems

Optimal tyre pressure is crucial for efficient car handling. A tyre pressure monitoring system warns you about abnormal pressure levels in any of the wheels to prevent mishaps. There are two types of TPMS, Direct (uses inbuilt sensors) and Indirect (uses anti-lock braking system sensors). 

• Isofix Child Seat Mounts

Isofix systems are mounted on car seats to ensure accurate installation of child car seats. The three-point Isofix system has two lower anchorages and a third anchor point called the ‘top tether’. These are particularly necessary if you have a family member younger than 12 years. 

Other safety features include dual-stage airbags, knee airbags, side curtain airbags and more. 

• Tyre Tread Depth

Examine the tyre for tread wear and ensure that it is evenly worn out. Uneven tread wear is a clear indication of misaligned wheels, which can impact car handling. Also, make sure the minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm, which is a legal mandate. 

• Brakes, Steering and Suspension

Check the brakes and make sure they are responding effectively. Assess the smoothness and responsiveness of the steering and check the condition of the suspension as you drive over bumps to find out whether the vehicle absorbs the shocks effectively. 

• Lights, Indicators, and Horn

Make sure all the lights, both on the exterior and the interior are working well. Check if the horns, hazard lights, and indicators are in optimal condition to help avert any mishaps on the road. 

• Glass and Mirrors

As part of the used car assessment, make sure to cover all windows, mirrors and windscreens for any chips, cracks and other visible damages, that might expand over time and lead to expensive repairs in the near future.