How to Choose a Used Car with the Best Safety Features?

Posted Saturday, Aug 31, 2024

Safety should always be a priority—especially when buying a used car. While the allure of a good used car deal is tempting, your safety on the road is priceless. You must take the time to thoroughly inspect and ensure the vehicle has a high reliability rating. This is critical to keeping you and your loved ones safe on the road.

In this blog post, we'll guide you through everything you need to know to find a used car. You will learn how to buy a budget-friendly that is packed with top-notch safety features.

1. Review Safety Ratings

Think of safety ratings as a report card for a car's safety performance. Organizations like the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) often provide ratings based on rigorous crash tests and evaluations of a car's safety features.

Before you even start browsing used car listings, do some research on these safety ratings. You must look for cars with high scores in crash tests and those equipped with advanced safety technologies.

2. Consider Essential Safety Features

Essential car safety features are the non-negotiables. If a used car lacks any of these, it's best to move on to the next option. Here are some safety features that are mandatory in every car to ensure safety while on the road.

• Airbags: These are your first line of defense in a collision. Ensure the used car you're considering has multiple airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags.
• Anti-lock Brake System (ABS): This system prevents wheel lockup during braking, helping you maintain steering control and avoid skidding.
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC): This system helps you maintain control of the car during sudden maneuvers or slippery conditions. It's especially important in areas with unpredictable weather.

3. Consider Smart Driver Assistance

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) features are like having a co-pilot in your car. While not essential, these features can significantly enhance your safety on the road.

Some key ADAS features to consider:

• Lane Departure Warning: If you inadvertently veer from your lane, this system will notify you.
• Adaptive Cruise Control: This system maintains a safe following distance from the car ahead, even adjusting your speed automatically.
• Automatic Emergency Braking: This system can detect potential collisions and apply the brakes automatically if you fail to react in time.

Remember that these features result in a comfortable driving experience. However, they do not serve as an alternative to attentive driving. It is imperative that you maintain your focus on the road and your palms on the wheel at all times.

4. Review Crash Test Results

Crash test results provide crucial insights into how a car performs in different types of collisions. You can usually find these results on the IIHS and NHTSA websites.

When reviewing crash test results, pay close attention to the car's performance in frontal, side, and rollover crash tests. Look for cars that earn high ratings in all categories.

5. Look at the Vehicle History Report

Think of a vehicle history report as a used car's autobiography – it reveals its past experiences, both good and bad. Before you seal the deal, it's crucial to obtain a vehicle history report. This report can shed light on crucial information such as:

• Accident History: Has the vehicle previously been involved in any accidents? If so, how severe were they?
• Title Issues: Does the car have a clean title, or has it been salvaged or rebuilt?
• Maintenance Records: Has the car received regular maintenance and repairs?
• Ownership History: Do you know about the number of previous car owners?

A vehicle history report can save you from potential headaches down the road. Don't skip this step.

6. Consider Professional Inspection

Even if a used car looks great on the outside and has a clean history report, it's always wise to have it inspected by a trusted mechanic. A professional inspection can uncover any hidden issues that might not be apparent to the untrained eye.

Key areas to focus on during the inspection:

• Brakes: Check for wear and tear on brake pads and rotors.
• Tires: Ensure the tires have sufficient tread depth and are in good condition.
• Fluids: Check the levels and condition of engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid.
• Suspension: Look for any signs of damage or wear on shocks and struts.
• Engine: Inspect for any leaks or unusual noises.

A professional inspection can give you peace of mind and help you avoid costly repairs down the line.

7. Hit the Road: The Test Drive

The test drive is your chance to get behind the wheel and experience the car firsthand. But don't just go for a leisurely cruise – use this opportunity to thoroughly evaluate the car's safety features and overall performance.

The following are some recommendations for conducting a test drive:

• Test the Brakes: Apply the brakes at different speeds to ensure they're responsive and effective.
• Check the Steering: Ensure the steering is precise and doesn't pull to one side.
• Evaluate Visibility: Check for any blind spots and make sure the mirrors provide adequate visibility.
• Try the Safety Features: If the car has ADAS features, test them out in a safe environment to see how they work.

Pay close attention to how the car feels and handles. If anything seems off, don't hesitate to ask questions or express your concerns.

Conclusion: Safety First, Always

You must prioritize safety when purchasing a used car, as it can be a financially prudent decision. By following the tips mentioned in this blog post, you can significantly increase your chances of finding a used car that's safe and reliable.

If you found this guide helpful, share it with your friends and family who are also in the market for a used car.

Visit Preferred Auto Wholesale today! We offer a wide selection of safe, reliable used cars that have been thoroughly inspected and come with a vehicle history report. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff will help you find the perfect car to fit your needs and budget. Your safety is our priority.