Top Tech Features To Look For In A Used Car

Technology has taken center stage in auto manufacturing. Consumer expectations are also high with more people looking for cars with the latest tech, safety, and infotainment features. One study revealed that car buyers are willing to pay up to $2,276 more for a car to get the exact tech features they want. The good news is you don’t need to buy a new car to enjoy these features. You can find them in used cars that cost way less than new cars. Here are the top tech features to look for when buying a used car.

1. Bluetooth

Wireless connection via Bluetooth is very common today. A Bluetooth connection allows you to enjoy music and podcasts from your phone without plugging in any wires. Hands-free Bluetooth started featuring in vehicles back in 2001. But back then, Bluetooth was an expensive tech feature only available in select car models such as Chrysler, Ford, Hyundai, and Chevy. Today, Bluetooth is everywhere. It has become an essential infotainment feature.

2. Backup Cameras

Backup cameras have become increasingly common and can be found in many cars. The rear cameras give drivers a live feed from the rear as they reverse or park vehicles. As of 2018, federal laws require all vehicles weighing less than 10,000 rounds to have backup cameras. You can find backup cameras in all used cars that aren’t over four years old.

Navigation maps have been around since the early 2000s. Located on a car’s screen, the maps guide you with real-time traffic information to help you find the best route to your destination. You don’t have to guess where to find a gas station or a restaurant along the way.

The maps also show you alternate routes to help you get to your destination faster. However, when buying a used car, check whether the maps are up to date. Updating the system may cost you upwards of $500.

4. Adaptive Cruise Control

This safety tech feature uses sensors to monitor and maintain a safe distance between your car and the car in front by automatically adjusting brakes. The technology is more common in high-end vehicles like BMWs, Mercedes-Benzes, Audis, Cadillacs, Chryslers, and Acuras. You can also find Adaptive Cruise Control in some Chevrolets, Nissans, Fords, and Toyotas.

5. Emergency Braking Assistance

Modern car buyers are more concerned about the safety features in cars. Emergency braking assistance, also called brake assist, can save you from a crash. The feature applies emergency brakes based on the situation. Research has shown that brake assist helps thousands of drivers to avoid accidents every year. The technology is effective because it monitors your driving patterns and knows when something isn’t okay and quickly takes over.

There are different types of emergency braking assistance systems, but their purpose is the same–they lock a car’s wheels where the brake pedal cannot exert enough force to stop the car. Although many car brands offer this technology today, Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, and BMW have the best systems.

Featured image: Pexels (ANTONI SHKRABA).