There’s no doubt that a number one concern for automobile drivers today is safety. Not only are our roads over-crowded with drivers, but the variety of road conditions and potential mechanical issues add an extra level of complexity to vehicle safety. That’s why cars are built with a variety of vehicle safety features to make sure every time you get on the road, you and your vehicle occupants arrive safely at your destination.
In this article, we examine some lesser known but important safety features of our vehicles. In some cases, ones we take for granted that they are there and will do their job when necessary. We look at common issues you can experience with these safety features and ways to minimize risk through ongoing maintenance.
The Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
You may not even realize your vehicle has tire air pressure monitoring until the indicator light comes up on your dashboard for the first time. If your vehicle was manufactured any time after 2008, it is equipped with TPMS.
TPMS uses sensors mounted in the wheel of each tire to provide you with real-time air pressure readings. If tire pressure drops below a pre-set level, TPMS alerts you with some type of warning on your dashboard. TPMS may indicate that tire pressure is low, and in some vehicles, it will even pinpoint the specific tire and current air pressure.
Because TPMS is electronic the majority of issues are largely related to the sensors. Sensors can sometimes become faulty as a result of heat, water, or salt. Also, sensors might experience wiring or battery issues.
If your TPMS indicator is lit on the dashboard but tire pressure is normal, this may indicate an issue. Or, if your TPMS is not lit but the tire pressure is below normal, there may be a problem. The best recourse for a faulty TPMS is to have it inspected by a service professional who can replace the sensor(s) and reset the system to function effectively.
The Brake System
The brake system is comprised of many components such as pads, rotors, and brake fluid (to name a few) that work together to slow or stop the vehicle during motion.
Your vehicle’s brake system experiences a lot of stress through frequent friction and heat. These two elements may damage your brake system over time and results in wear and tear. Some common issues that you may find with your brake system may include wearing of rotors or pads, or brake fluid leaks.
Brake issues never improve over time; they only get worse. That’s why it is important to address brake system issues in a timely manner. Some ways to ensure properly functioning brakes include annual pad or rotor inspections for wear and the occasional flushing of brake fluid every few years.
The Suspension System
The suspension system is a safety feature that we often take for granted until we are suddenly feeling every bump in the road. Your vehicle’s suspension system is a set of components that includes the tires, steering, shock absorbers, springs, and struts that keep your ride smooth.
When your vehicle’s suspension system is damaged or failing, you may experience a variety of signs and symptoms. Suspension issues typically reveal themselves through sound or movement. For example, your vehicle may pull to one side. Or, you may feel bumps more easily when driving over rough road surfaces. Even worse, your vehicle may dive, squeak, or bounce when breaking or turning.
Ignoring suspension problems will not only lead to costly repairs but also create a safety issue. The less control you have of your vehicle in hazardous road conditions is never good. Keeping your suspension system maintained is easy by following a few simple rules.
- Always keep your tires inflated at the proper level.
- Have your tires rotated every six months to ensure even wear.
- Consider a wheel alignment every few years.
Airbags
Airbags have been in vehicles a lot longer than most of us realize. Since 1998, airbags have been a standard safety feature in the United States. As vehicle manufacturing has improved over the years, so have airbags. Many newer vehicles are equipped with multiple side and front airbags that are designed to deploy during a collision.
Over the last few years, there have been several airbag recalls. As a vehicle owner, it is important to adhere to all safety recalls immediately. Malfunctioning airbags result in serious injury and sometimes death. If you are not sure about your airbags, contact your vehicle manufacturer or dealership directly to inquire about active recalls.
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Another one of your vehicle’s lesser known safety features but always there to do its job when needed is the Electronic Stability Control system, or ESC. Vehicle manufacturers may label this feature differently but it serves the same purpose – to stabilize your vehicle during operation when it loses traction or steering control because of road conditions or operator error.
A proper functioning ESC will be indicated by a warning light on your dashboard. When activated, ESC controls the braking and speed of the vehicle to avoid tailspins or loss of control. Most ESC problems arise out of electronic issues. Your vehicle’s ESC warning indicator may be falsely lit because of a problem with your brake light switch or sensors that are part of the overall system. If you notice any irregularities with the ESC indicator light, contact a service professional to have it inspected.
An Ounce of Prevention
If you experience any problems related to the above safety features, or any other safety mechanisms of your vehicle, contact a service professional. After all, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” In need of maintenance or repair? Schedule an appointment with Car Kings in Wallington, NJ today.