1. TURN ON CAR
Turn on car normally.
Why Your Vehicle Has a Temperature Warning
Nov 4, 2019
Temperature Warning
Alerts you when the outside temperature is detected to be at or below freezing, which can impact the conditions of roadways.
This recently introduced feature uses temperature readings and other information to help warn drivers when roads are or may become icy.
Quick Guide
2. KNOW YOUR WARNING
Look to the dashboard for a warning that the temperature is below freezing.
3. ADJUST PLANS IF NEEDED
Choose to delay driving or change your mode of transportation if conditions are too dangerous for driving.
How it works
WHAT IT DOES
This feature warns drivers when the temperature is below freezing outside – which is an indicator that there may be ice on the roads – which will help drivers be on the lookout for slippery conditions.
THE TECHNOLOGY BEHIND IT
A thermometer works with your vehicle’s dashboard or infotainment system to warn you when the outside temperature drops below freezing (0 degrees Celsius or 32 degrees Fahrenheit). Most versions of temperature warnings don’t take into account the vehicle’s internal temperature, just the temperature outside (which is more relevant in whether there is ice on the grounds).
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO
If you receive a temperature warning, you should use this information as one of the many factors you should consider on whether it is safe to drive. Other factors to consider include what you already know about the weather between you and your driving destination and your car’s handling in snowy weather or on ice.
This warning should remind you of factors that could make it more dangerous to drive when combined with icy roads, such as driving at night or over bridges.
TIPS FOR USING
- Even if you don’t get a temperature warning when turning on the car, consider the temperature and weather at your destination when deciding whether it’s safe to drive.
- Sometimes, the temperature can go from above freezing to below freezing over a short distance. Temperature warnings can help identify those times.
- It’s important to be generally aware of the weather outside before departing on a trip and to not rely exclusively on your temperature warning for information about potential driving conditions
Question & Answers
What else is this feature called?
You may also see this feature called road surface temperature warning in some cars.
Does this feature monitor the condition of the road directly beneath my vehicle while driving?
While today’s temperature warning and road surface warning features don’t manually scan the road to determine its condition, future versions of this feature may have these capabilities. Continue checking out MyCarDoesWhat.org to learn more!
What other roadway conditions does this feature warn me of besides ice?
Currently, temperature warning systems only alert you to the possibility that there may be ice on the roads.
Does the temperature warning feature mean there is black ice on the roads?
Black ice is formed by cold temperatures and moisture. While it may be below freezing outside, if roads don’t have adequate moisture to form ice, it isn’t likely that there is black ice on the roads.
However, black ice is very difficult to detect – even when driving on it – so if you’re driving a long distance, it’s not safe to assume that just because your current location doesn’t have black ice there isn’t black ice further along the road.
Content Source: MyCarDoesWhat.org
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
Tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) may warn you if your tires are under- or over-inflated, helping increase your fuel economy and even potentially preventing a tire blowout.
What It Does
WHAT IT DOES:Lets you know if tire pressure has changed; common in change of seasons – especially from warmer to colder – or change of elevation
WHAT IT DOES NOT DO:May not specify which of the tires needs attention.
Quick Guide
1. Be Aware
One or more of your tires are seriously under-inflated if this symbol appears. For some cars, it may also appear for over-inflation.
2. Stop When Safe
If you’re driving, pull over when safe to check each tire’s pressure for under- or over-inflation.
3. Take Action
Follow your tires’ pressure guidelines to inflate or deflate the tires to a normal pressure range.
How it works
WHAT IT DOES
This feature monitors your tires’ pressures and warns you if you have one or more under-inflated tires. Poorly inflated tires are prone to blow outs and may make it more difficult to brake or steer. Some versions of this feature can also detect over-inflation. Both under- and over-inflation will affect the life of your tires and your car’s gas mileage.
THE TECHNOLOGY BEHIND IT
There are two main types of TPMS sensors. Direct sensors are small, wireless devices inside each tire, which report the tire’s pressure reading to your dashboard. Indirect sensors work by measuring wheel spin and can only tell if a tire’s pressure is low.
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO
If your TPMS symbol is on, check the pressure for each tire to determine if one or more tires have abnormal pressure readings. Add or subtract air at a gas station to their recommended pressure ranges. In many cars, the TPMS symbol should then no longer activate. If it does, there may be a problem with the sensor itself as many use a watch battery that lasts about 5 to 10 years.
TIPS FOR USING
- When you see your TPMS dashboard light come on, you don’t need to pull over immediately. You can wait for a safe break in traffic before you pull over to inspect your tires.
- You should still check the pressure of each tire manually if you’re planning on taking a long trip or after returning from a long trip. Long use – especially in very cold and very warm climates – can change your tires’ pressures enough to affect their functionality.
- Make it a habit to check your tires’ pressures at the beginning of every new season.
Question & Answers
Is this feature required by law?
Yes; the federal government required all new cars to include this system starting in late 2007.
Does this feature let me know if my tires are over-inflated?
Most do. However, some features only detect for under-inflation. Check your owner’s manual for information specific to your vehicle.
Can TPMS save me money?
Tire pressure monitoring systems have the potential to save you money directly and indirectly. According to information from AAA and Safercar.gov from May 2014:
- Properly inflated tires can save you as much as 11 cents per gallon on fuel.
- Proper tire maintenance such as balancing, rotating and inflation can improve mileage and extend the life of tires by up to 4,700 miles.
- Properly inflated tires can improve a car’s mileage per gallon.
Content Source: MyCarDoesWhat.org
What is Electronic Stability Control?
Nov 4, 2019
Electronic Stability Control
Helps prevent loss of control in curves and emergency steering maneuvers by stabilizing your car when it begins to veer off your intended path.
What It Does
WHAT IT DOES:Works automatically to help the driver maintain control of the car during hard steering maneuvers.
WHAT IT DOES NOT DO:May or may not prevent a rollover. Will not apply hard braking or steering automatically.
Quick Guide
1. ACTIVATE
Electronic stability control (ESC) activates when you start your car.
2. USE
ESC engages automatically to help prevent oversteering and understeering.
3. STAY ON PATH
ESC works by braking individual wheels and reducing engine speed – helping you maintain control.
How it works
WHAT IT DOES
This feature helps prevent you from losing control of the direction of your car due to a spin out or plow out. When effective, this also significantly reduces your risk of being in a rollover – one of the most dangerous types of single-vehicle crashes.
THE TECHNOLOGY BEHIND IT
A series of sensors read the direction your vehicle is going, the position on your steering wheel and the brakes on your tires. If they detect that the car isn’t going in the direction you intended it to go, this feature helps correct your car back on-route by adjusting your speed and selectively braking one or more wheels. Without ESC, as this image shows, you may depart the road or get into a crash.
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO
Spin outs and plow outs most often occur when you are taking turns too sharply and quickly; and when you make sudden maneuvers on slippery roads. You should always be sure to take turns slowly and carefully – which may require you to reduce your speed – and adjust your following distance on slippery roads so that you can brake or steer to safety sooner when needed.
TIPS FOR USING
- Electronic stability control works most effectively when your car’s anti-lock braking system is working effectively. If you are having problems with your ABS, your ESC may not work well or at all.
- Common causes of 4-wheel ABS malfunctions include worn brake linings and air or dirt in the brake fluid.
- Both ESC and ABS work most effectively when the tires are properly inflated and in good condition.
Question & Answers
What else is this feature called?
Other common names for this feature include dynamic stability control and vehicle stability control.
Is electronic stability control a required feature?
Electronic stability control (ESC) has been standard on higher-end vehicles, pick-up trucks and SUVs for a number of years. However, it became a requirement for all new cars beginning Sept. 1, 2011.
ESC is designed to help prevent rollovers – what makes them so dangerous?
The primary reason that ESC is now required on new cars is that it has been proven to help prevent rollovers and other loss of control crashes in which hard steering is involved. Rollovers are dangerous because the injuries sustained in this type of crash tend to be more severe and fatal than any other type of crash.
What do I need to do when using ESC?
ESC is designed to automatically help stabilize your car when it detects a momentary loss of control, like going around a corner too fast. It’s on when you turn on your car and will activate when it detects you may be losing control.
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What do I do if my ESC is malfunctioning?
New cars are designed to warn you as soon as ESC is malfunctioning. The government mandates that in cars made after Sept. 1, 2011, the malfunction icon or warning must remain active for as long as ESC is not working. The location and display of your specific car’s warning may be different depending on the manufacturer.
ESC relies on the anti-lock braking system (ABS) and the traction control systems to function; if one or both of those systems are not operating correctly, ESC is unable to help stabilize your car in emergencies. If you are receiving an ESC malfunctioning icon, it may mean there is something wrong with your ABS, traction control or your ESC system directly.
If you receive a warning, bring your car to your dealer or a mechanic as soon as it is safe to do so. When fixed, the malfunction warning should turn off in new cars the next time you turn on your car.
Content Source: MyCarDoesWhat.org
Adaptive Cruise Control Explained
Nov 4, 2019
Adaptive Cruise Control
Not only maintains your set speed, but your following distance as well; provides some limited braking.
What It Does
WHAT IT DOES:Automatically speeds up and slows down your car to keep a set following distance relative to the car ahead. Provides some braking.
WHAT IT DOES NOT DO:You need to understand how much braking the system can do—some will brake to a stop, most will only brake so much.
Quick Guide
1. Set Speed
Set your desired speed.
2. Set Gap
Set your desired following distance, or gap; if the gap changes, ACC slows or speeds up to maintain gap.
3. Stay Focused
As always, be aware of the traffic around you.
How it works
WHAT IT DOES
Adaptive cruise control can increase or decrease your car’s speed to maintain a following distance that you set. Advanced versions can even slow and stop your car in traffic jams, then accelerate for you.
THE TECHNOLOGY BEHIND IT
One or more sensors – including radar and computer-connected cameras – read the road ahead of you for traffic. They are capable of reading and responding to any cars that are in front of you in your lane.
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO
Accelerate to your set speed, then turn on the ACC. Tell the ACC how close you want your following distance gap to be (generally short, medium and long distances), and it’s then set to begin working. However, you should still stay aware of your surroundings. In bad weather and other unsafe driving conditions, it is advised not to use ACC. Refer to your owner’s manual for more information.
TIPS FOR USING
- Be aware that ACC may not work effectively in certain types of weather conditions. Some examples of these include heavy fog or rain; having dirt, snow or ice covering the sensors; or when the roadways are slippery. These systems also may not work in tunnels.
- ACC allows you to spend less energy maintaining your following distance with the cars in front of you. You should use this opportunity to pay more attention to the traffic mix, including cars ahead of you and in adjacent lanes.
- Check your owner’s manual to see if your ACC is capable of slowing your car to a stop, or if you need to stop on your own.
Question & Answers
What are some other names for this feature?
This feature may be marketed under the following names, in addition to others:
- Automatic cruise control
- Active cruise control
- Cooperative adaptive cruise control
- Intelligent cruise control
- Radar cruise control
What are my options for following distance?
Most car brands’ versions of ACC have similar options for following distance, such as “short, medium and long.” Some vehicles can even offer four or five following distance options. Read your owner’s manual for more information on what each following distance setting means.
Will my adaptive cruise control work in bad weather?
Each brand’s version of ACC uses one or more sensors to operate – from radar to camera sensors. Some examples of bad weather that could affect these sensors include heavy fog or rain; having dirt, snow or ice covering the sensors; or when the conditions are slippery. These systems also may not work in tunnels.
Can my adaptive cruise control completely stop my car?
Most versions of ACC that have been introduced to the market are capable of slowing down your car when the car in front of you slows, but then require you to apply more braking. Just like regular cruise control, once you touch the brakes, you will need to reactivate your ACC. Some modern versions of ACC have the advanced capability to stop your car on its own, then start it up again. Referred to as “stop-and-go ACC,” this advanced feature is helpful in traffic jams.
Content Source: MyCarDoesWhat.org
What is High Speed Alert in Your Vehicle?
Nov 4, 2019
High Speed Alert
An alert that sounds if you’re speeding.
This feature coordinates the car’s position, via GPS, with a database of speed limit information to alert drivers if they’re speeding. This helps drivers maintain a safe driving speed. Newer versions may use a camera to read speed limit signs.
A more advanced version of this feature, called intelligent speed adaptation, would be capable of slowing down the car automatically if a driver passes the speed limit. Drivers would be able to override most versions of intelligent speed adaptation. This feature currently is being researched in Europe and the United States, among other countries.
Quick Guide
1. ACTIVATE & UPDATE
Activate high speed alert in your GPS or vehicle’s settings if it isn’t on by default; make sure it’s updated.
2. PREPARE FOR WARNINGS
Look for warning symbols and/or listen for warning beeps that indicate you’re going above the speed limit.
3. ADJUST SPEED
Gently slow the vehicle to the appropriate speed.
How it works
WHAT IT DOES
This feature lets you know when you’re speeding so that you can slow down to an appropriate speed.
THE TECHNOLOGY BEHIND IT
The global positioning system (GPS) unit compares a database of known road speed limits against your actual speed through the use of a built-in speed sensor. Some versions may also track school and work zones; future versions may be able to read speed limits though a camera.
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO
First, make sure your GPS or car’s infotainment center is fully up-to-date. Then, listen and/or look for high speed alerts, such as beeps or visual warnings such as color changes on your display. If you’re warned, carefully slow your car to the appropriate posted speed limit by letting off the throttle or lightly braking. Refrain from slamming the brakes to maintain a safe speed.
TIPS FOR USING
• If you’re unsure how to update your internal or external GPS, contact your car’s manufacturer or the manufacturer of the GPS unit.
• When in doubt, always rely on the posted speed limits on the roads.
• Some high speed alerts may not take into account school and work zones, so be sure to keep track of all posted speed signs as you drive.
Question & Answers
How do I know if I have this feature?
This feature is included in some cars’ built-in infotainment systems on your multifunction display as well as in many after-market GPS units. Check your device’s owner’s manual to find out whether you have high speed alert.
How should I react if I get a high speed alert?
If you get a high speed alert, gently slow your car to match the speed limit. You can do this by letting off the throttle until your car slows to the appropriate speed or by lightly braking.
Be aware of traffic behind you as you slow down.
My high speed alert doesn’t go off even though the roads signs indicate I’m speeding. Is my system not working?
If this happens, it could mean that your GPS’s maps are not fully updated or complete. You should update your GPS unit before your next driving trip.
A lack of alerts could also mean that you’re driving on a road that has recently begun construction or switched speed zones. When in doubt, rely on the posted speed limits, not your high speed alert.
Content Source: MyCarDoesWhat.org
What Does Traction Control Do?
Nov 4, 2019
Traction Control
Works in the background to help accelerate and prevent wheel slippage (or “over-spinning”) when driving on slippery surfaces.
Traction control is most effective when accelerating from a stopped or slowed position, or when trying to accelerate up a slippery hill. This feature provides a lot of benefits to drivers, from making driving smoother to helping them stay in control of the car on icy roads or during rainy weather.
Drivers should be sure to reduce their speed and take turns more slowly when driving in slippery conditions.
What It Does
WHAT IT DOES:Helps your wheels gain traction on slippery surfaces.
WHAT IT DOES NOT DO:Does not work as well as snow tires.
Quick Guide
1. Increases Traction
Helps prevent wheels from spinningon slippery surfaces And increases tractionwhen accelerating.
2. When to turn off
Turn off Traction Control if stuck in mud or snow and need to rockthe car Or when using tire chains .
3. Engage
Traction Control will only engagewhen your wheels start to slip.
Question & Answers
What happens when I press my traction control button?
When turned off, you may notice that your vehicle handles differently than you are used to when driving on slippery surfaces. This is why you should leave your traction control on at all times.
Why would I ever need to turn off my traction control?
You should leave your traction control at all times so that you can benefit from this important safety feature. However, in very rare circumstances, you may need to turn the traction control off temporarily. These include the following:
- You are driving in a region that requires your tires to have chains, and your vehicle’s traction control is interfering with your ability to drive.
- Your car is trapped in very deep snow, mud or other surface in which your car cannot move out on its own. Turning off traction control while you rock your car may help you drive out faster.
Content Source: MyCarDoesWhat.org
What is Pedestrian Detection?
Nov 4, 2019
Pedestrian Detection
Uses advanced sensors to detect human movements; some versions may urgently apply the brakes if the driver fails to respond.
What It Does
WHAT IT DOES: Alerts the driver or automatically brakes if there is a pedestrian in the path between a certain speed range—generally around 25 mph.
WHAT IT DOES NOT DO: Steer.
Quick Guide
1. Scan
Scan the path ahead.
2. Focus
Always look for cars, objects and people.
3. Know
Know your system. Listen, and look for dashboard warnings.
How it works
WHAT IT DOES
Uses advanced sensors to detect human movements ahead and alert the driver. Some may automatically apply the brakes.
THE TECHNOLOGY BEHIND IT
Stereoscopic cameras mounted behind the rearview mirror and radar have become effective at detecting the more subtle movements of people.
These systems are more effective at slower speeds. Pedestrian Detection may not always be able to help avoid a collision, but this feature can help reduce the speed enough to make the impact more survivable. As research progresses, infrared technology is being added to improve performance, especially at night.
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO
Always scan the road and horizon ahead looking for pedestrians. Read the owner’s manual so you understand:
- exactly how you will be warned if the system detects a pedestrian.
- how your car may respond (e.g. automatic braking).
TIPS FOR USING
- Systems like Pedestrian Detection are not a replacement for an attentive driver.
- Always scan the road and area ahead, not just the cars in front of you.
- Remember, you as a driver can’t always predict what a person, especially a child, standing on a curb might do. A computer can’t predict this either.
- Twilight and dusk are among the most dangerous times for pedestrians and drivers. We think we can still see as though it’s daytime, but vision is greatly reduced during these hours.
Content Source: MyCarDoesWhat.org
What is Obstacle Detection?
Nov 4, 2019
Obstacle Detection
Can sense slow-moving or stationary objects when driving at low speeds. Some may even brake for you to avoid obstacles.
This feature activates at slow speeds and will provide warnings of impending collisions. For some versions, it will brake the car automatically.
What It Does
WHAT IT DOES:Uses sensors mounted in the front and or rear bumpers to determine the distance between the car and nearby objects.
WHAT IT DOES NOT DO: It is not as susceptible to low-visibility conditions like fog, snow and rain because it uses radar and sonar technology versus a camera.
Quick Guide
1. Pay attention
Pay attention to beeps and lights when backing and parking.
2. Be Ready to React
Be prepared to react if an obstacle is detected behind you, or in front of your bumper for some systems.
3. Know the Limits
Don’t only rely on this technology. Use your mirrors and eyes.
How it works
WHAT IT DOES
The parking obstacle detection system warns a driver about nearby obstacles that are usually low to the ground (e.g., hydrant, bicycle, guard rail). It’s primarily for backing-up or for slow maneuvering when parking.
THE TECHNOLOGY BEHIND IT
An obstacle detection system uses ultrasonic sensors mounted on the front and/or rear bumpers. These sensors can measure the distance between your car and nearby obstacles directly around the front or rear bumper. The driver is alerted by beeps or the dashboard display. The beeps become faster as the vehicle moves closer to the obstacle. A collision is imminent when the beeps become a continuous tone.
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO
This feature varies among car models. Know how your car’s system works before driving, especially if it’s a rental car. Also, make sure the sensors are clean and not covered by debris or stickers.
TIPS FOR USING
- The obstacle detection feature is not a substitute for using your mirrors and your eyes.
- Get to know how your particular system works.
- It’s a good idea to always walk around your car before driving.
Question & Answers
When should I use my obstacle detection system?
This feature is designed to warn you during parking that you may be close to another object like another car or garage wall. Your owner’s manual can offer more details.
Will this feature detect people or children?
It may be able to detect in some conditions, but this feature was NOT designed to detect people.
Can I turn this feature off?
Yes. There is usually the capability to disable the obstacle detection system. Check your manual for details.
Content Source: MyCarDoesWhat.org
What is Forward Collision Warning?
Nov 4, 2019
Forward Collision Warning
Forward collision warning can alert you of an impending collision with a slower moving or stationary car in front of you.
What It Does
WHAT IT DOES:Designed to alert you to a hazard ahead so that you can brake or swerve in time.
WHAT IT DOES NOT DO:Forward collision warning alone will not automatically brake for you.
Quick Guide
1. Scan
Scan the road ahead and maintain a safe following distance.
2. Be Alert
Warning tones or visual alerts will warn you that a collision is about to occur.
3. Prepare to Brake
Brake or steer to safety to avoid a crash.
How it works
WHAT IT DOES
Forward collision warning scans the road ahead while you drive. It’s designed to warn you if you’re about to crash into a slower moving or stopped car. Some features can detect other objects, but check your owner’s manual to make sure you understand its capabilities.
THE TECHNOLOGY BEHIND IT
Sensors located in the front of your car are able to detect how close you are to cars in front of you. These typically are camera- or radar-based. Warnings can come in the form of sounds, visuals, vibrations or a quick brake pulse; or, a mix of warnings.
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO
Always be a cautious driver and keep a safe following distance from the traffic ahead of you. However, sudden braking might be needed at any time. Forward collision warning is designed to alert you to a hazard ahead so that you can take action in time. If you are warned by the system, prepare to brake or steer quickly.
TIPS FOR USING
- Your forward collision warning feature’s sensors can be blocked by ice or snow, so be sure to clear any build-up off your feature’s sensors before you begin driving.
- If you aren’t sure where your forward collision warning’s sensors are located, you can always check your owner’s manual or with your dealership.
- Some forward collision warning features are vulnerable to glare at sunrise and sunset, so don’t rely on this feature exclusively. Always pay attention to the road ahead. Rear-end crashes are the most common crash type in the United States.
Question & Answers
What else is this feature called?
Different manufacturers call this system different names. You may see it referred to as:
- Pre-crash system
- Forward crash warning
- Collision mitigating system
- Collision avoidance system
- Forward collision avoidance system
- Rear-end crash avoidance system
- Automotive collision avoidance system
Does this feature brake my car for me?
Newer forward collision warning features with automatic braking may also brake your car in an emergency. While this capability is becoming more and more common in many new cars today, not all earlier versions of forward collision warning can slow or stop your car automatically. Check your owner’s manual or with your dealership for more information.
Will this feature detect any size of vehicle?
Forward collision warning best detects vehicles in front of you. However, not all features will be capable of detecting motorcycles, bicycles, pedestrians, some farm machinery and other vehicles smaller than a car.
Does forward collision warning work in bad weather?
Some versions of this feature use different types of sensors to detect other vehicles in front of you. Some of these sensors may not work well in some conditions, such as driving through fog or driving inside of a tunnel. Rain and snow can also affect such systems.
Content Source: MyCarDoesWhat.org
What is Brake Assist?
Nov 4, 2019
Brake Assist
Adds additional braking power to your car during emergency stops.
Drivers’ reaction times don’t always match how quickly they need to react to avoid a crash. If electronic braking assistance notices drivers slamming the brake pedal, it applies maximum force to the brakes to help make sure the car stops as quickly as possible.
Make sure to keep a safe following distance from vehicles ahead of you as you drive.
What It Does
WHAT IT DOES:You brake, it brakes harder.
WHAT IT DOES NOT DO:Does not automatically stop your car. (See Automatic Emergency Braking)
Content source: MyCarDoesWhat.org
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