When purchasing a new or used car in Australia, safety is often one of the most critical factors to consider. With modern vehicles packed full of innovative safety technologies, understanding what features and ratings to prioritise can help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive into how safety ratings work in Australia and explore the essential features that can protect you and your loved ones on the road.
What Are Safety Ratings and How Are They Determined?
In Australia, car safety is primarily assessed by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP). Established in 1993, ANCAP provides consumers with reliable safety ratings based on a vehicle’s performance in crash tests and its ability to prevent accidents. Cars are rated from one to five stars, with five stars indicating the highest level of safety.
ANCAP Ratings Explained
ANCAP ratings assess vehicle safety across several key areas:
- Adult Occupant Protection: Measures how effectively the vehicle protects adults in the front seats during a crash.
- Child Occupant Protection: Evaluates the safety of children using approved child restraint systems.
- Vulnerable Road User Protection: Assesses the risks posed to pedestrians and cyclists in the event of a collision.
- Safety Assist Technologies: Reviews the effectiveness of features like lane-keeping assist and automatic emergency braking in preventing accidents.
Why ANCAP Ratings Matter in Australia
Australia’s diverse driving conditions—ranging from urban streets to rural highways—make safety a top priority. ANCAP’s rigorous testing reflects these challenges, ensuring cars are suited for everything from high-speed collisions to wildlife-related incidents. For families, especially those traveling with children, choosing a vehicle with a five-star ANCAP rating offers peace of mind.
How to Choose a Safe Vehicle
When shopping for a car, keep these tips in mind:
Check the ANCAP Rating: Always aim for a five-star rated vehicle, especially if it’s a family car or you frequently drive on highways.
Prioritise Safety Features: Focus on advanced driver-assist technologies and occupant protection systems.
Consider Your Needs: If you live in a region with wildlife crossings or icy conditions, choose a vehicle with features like night vision assist or tyre pressure monitoring systems.
Investing in a car with robust safety features is an investment in your family’s well-being. At Express Lube, we’re here to help you keep your vehicle in peak condition. From brake checks to airbag inspections, visit us at one of our Central Coast locations for professional advice and servicing.
Essential Safety Features for Australian Roads
With numerous safety technologies available, these features are crucial when selecting your next vehicle:
- Airbags: Ensure the vehicle includes comprehensive airbag coverage, such as front, side, and curtain airbags, to protect all occupants in a collision.
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC): Mandatory in all new Australian vehicles, ESC helps maintain control during sudden turns or skidding, reducing the risk of rollovers.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheel lockup during sudden braking, allowing for better steering and hazard avoidance.
- Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB): Detects potential collisions and automatically applies the brakes if the driver fails to react in time.
- Blind-Spot Monitoring: Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, enhancing safety during lane changes.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, perfect for long highway journeys.
- Child Restraint Systems: Look for ISOFIX-compatible seats for easier installation and enhanced safety compared to traditional systems.
