Safety Features to Look For In a Leased Vehicle

Published 6 June 2023

When it comes to leasing a vehicle, safety should be a top priority. Whether you’re leasing a car for personal use or business purposes, having the right safety features can provide peace of mind and protect you and your passengers on the road. In this article, we will explore the essential safety features you should look for when evaluating a leased vehicle, as well as where to research and find information about car safety features.

How to Evaluate a Car for Safety?

Before committing to a lease, it’s important to evaluate a car’s safety features thoroughly. 

Checking a car’s safety using Euro NCAP crash test scores

One of the first things you should look for is the vehicle’s crash test ratings. Organisations such as the Euro NCAP who conduct comprehensive crash tests and provide safety ratings for different vehicles. Euro NCAP’s five-star safety rating system helps consumers compare vehicles and choose the safest option. Pay attention to the overall safety rating, as well as individual ratings for frontal, side, and rollover crashes.

Where Can I Research Car Safety Features?

Researching car safety features has become easier with the wealth of information available online. Here are some reliable sources to gather information about safety features:

Manufacturer Websites

Visit the official websites of vehicle manufacturers to find detailed information about their models. Manufacturers often provide comprehensive specifications, including safety features, for each vehicle they offer. These websites can be a valuable resource for understanding the safety technology implemented in a specific car.

Automotive Review Websites

Automotive review websites and publications often include detailed safety feature analysis in their vehicle reviews. These reviews provide insights from automotive experts who have thoroughly tested the vehicles and can provide valuable information about the effectiveness and usability of safety features.

Consumer Forums and Communities

Online consumer forums and communities can be a useful resource for gathering information from real car owners. Join relevant forums or social media groups where people discuss their experiences with specific vehicle models. Engaging with these communities can give you first-hand insights into the safety features and overall safety performance of different vehicles.

Available Safety Features

Check the car’s safety equipment to ensure it aligns with your needs and expectations.  Look for the features that are important to you which could include:

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)

Modern vehicles often come equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) designed to prevent accidents and mitigate the severity of collisions. Features like lane departure warning, blind-spot detection, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking can greatly enhance safety. Pay attention to the availability and functionality of these systems in the leased vehicle you’re considering.

Lane Departure Warning

Lane departure warning systems use cameras or sensors to monitor the vehicle’s position within the lane. If the driver unintentionally drifts out of the lane, the system provides alerts or applies corrective steering to keep the vehicle safely within the lane.

Blind Spot Detection

Blind spot monitoring systems typically use external sensors positioned on a vehicle’s bumpers and side mirrors. These sensors are capable of identifying the presence of pedestrians or vehicles in your blind spot and alerting you through either a sound or visual signal.

Adaptive Cruise Control

Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is an intelligent form of cruise control that allows vehicles to speed up and slow down automatically in order to keep pace with the traffic ahead.

Automatic Emergency Braking

Automatic emergency braking (AEB) systems use sensors and cameras to detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to prevent or mitigate the impact. AEB can be a lifesaving feature, especially in situations where the driver fails to react in time.

Driver Drowsiness Detection

Long drives or monotonous road conditions can cause driver fatigue. Driver drowsiness detection systems monitor the driver’s behaviour and issue warnings if signs of drowsiness are detected. This feature can help prevent accidents caused by fatigue-related impairment.

Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)

Anti-lock brakes (ABS) prevent the wheels from locking up during braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control. ABS significantly reduces the risk of skidding and provides better control during emergency stops or on slippery surfaces.

S.O.S. Button

An S.O.S. button, often integrated into the rear view mirror or dashboard, enables the driver to quickly call for emergency assistance. This feature can be invaluable in situations where immediate help is required, such as accidents or medical emergencies.

Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for vehicle safety and performance. A TPMS continuously monitors tire pressure and alerts the driver if there is a significant deviation from the recommended pressure. This feature helps prevent tire blowouts and improves fuel efficiency.

Adaptive Headlights

Adaptive headlights adjust their beam patterns based on the vehicle’s speed and steering angle, improving visibility and reducing glare for the driver. These headlights can provide better illumination around curves and corners, enhancing safety during night time driving.

Parking Sensors and Cameras

Parking sensors and cameras assist drivers in manoeuvring the vehicle safely in tight spaces. These features provide visual and audible feedback, alerting the driver to obstacles or pedestrians in the vicinity, reducing the risk of accidents during parking.

Electronic Stability Control

Electronic stability control (ESC) systems help prevent skidding and loss of control during sudden manoeuvres or slippery conditions. ESC applies individual brakes and adjusts engine power to maintain stability and enhance vehicle control, especially in emergency situations.

Prioritising these safety features when evaluating a leased vehicle can contribute to a safer driving experience and reduce the risk of accidents on the road.

Overall Design and Visibility

Don’t forget to evaluate the vehicle’s overall design and visibility. Look for large windows, minimal blind spots, and adequate rear view mirrors. 

In conclusion, safety features are of utmost importance when leasing a vehicle. By evaluating a car’s crash test ratings, safety equipment, advanced driver assistance systems, and overall design, you can make an informed decision. Researching car safety features through manufacturer websites,  automotive review websites, and consumer communities can provide valuable insights.  By selecting a leased vehicle with these safety features, you can prioritise the well-being of yourself and your passengers on the road.