Modern cars are increasingly equipped with active safety systems designed to help drivers avoid crashes. These systems can assist in various scenarios, such as avoiding a rear-end collision, safely changing lanes, or reversing in busy parking lots.

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Key Safety Features

Here are the most common active safety systems you should look for when buying a car:

Forward Collision Warning (FCW): Alerts drivers if they’re closing in on another vehicle too quickly.

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): Applies brakes automatically to prevent or mitigate a collision.

Lane Departure Warning (LDW): Warns drivers if they unintentionally drift out of their lane.

Lane Keeping Assist (LKA): Actively steers the car back into its lane.

Blind-Spot Monitoring (BSM): Alerts drivers to vehicles in their blind spots during lane changes.

Rear Cross-Traffic Alert (RCTA): Detects vehicles approaching from the side while reversing.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Maintains a safe following distance from the car ahead.

Rearview Camera: Displays the area behind the car while reversing, often standard on newer models.

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Safety Feature Availability by Model Year

2021 Models

• Most brands have made safety features like FCW, AEB, and Rearview Cameras standard across all trims.
• Features like LKA and BSM may still be optional or limited to higher trims.

2020 Models

• Safety features remain widely available but may vary by trim level. Many brands have begun integrating ACC as a standard feature on premium trims.

2018–2019 Models

• FCW and Rearview Cameras become more common as standard features. However, AEB and LDW may still be optional or unavailable on base trims.

2016–2017 Models

• Advanced safety systems like RCTA and BSM are more likely to be optional or exclusive to higher trims. Standardization of features was still in progress.

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Interpreting Manufacturer Charts

• “S” (Standard): Feature is included on all trims.
• “O” (Optional): Available on select trims or as part of a package.
• “–” (Not Available): Feature is not offered on this model or trim.

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Brand-Specific Notes

Honda LaneWatch:
- Uses a passenger-side mirror-mounted camera to display a live view on the center screen when signaling right.
- Available on higher trims, but it doesn’t monitor the driver’s side or provide active alerts.

Toyota Safety Sense (TSS):
- Often includes FCW, AEB, and LDW as standard even on lower trims.

Subaru EyeSight:
- A suite of features like ACC, AEB, and FCW that is often standard or widely available.

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Why Advanced Safety Systems Matter

• Crash Prevention: Systems like AEB and FCW significantly reduce the likelihood of collisions.
• Driver Confidence: Features like BSM and RCTA help navigate busy roads and parking lots safely.
• Insurance Discounts: Many insurers offer discounts for vehicles equipped with advanced safety systems.

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Pro Tip: Shopping for a Car

• Research Trim Levels: Some features may only be available on higher trims or bundled with premium packages.
• Ask About Updates: Automakers often update safety systems annually; newer models may include better functionality.
• Test Drive: Experience how systems like LKA and ACC work before making a decision.

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Equipping yourself with a vehicle that has advanced safety systems ensures a safer driving experience for you and your passengers.

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