Driver-Assist Features to Look for in Your Next Used Car

More used cars now come with driver-assistance features either as standard equipment or widely offered options, a trend that researchers say can help keep drivers focused and may reduce crash severity. Studies from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and other safety groups have documented benefits, though availability varies by year and model. The Associated Press-published piece draws on guidance from Edmunds and outlines what buyers should look for when shopping for a used vehicle.

Among the most important features are forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking. FCW uses sensors to detect when a frontal collision is likely and can alert the driver with audio or visual cues. In many vehicles, AEB uses the same sensor set to apply the brakes automatically if the driver does not react in time, potentially slowing the vehicle or stopping it to lessen impact. Blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert also help by signaling when other vehicles are in the driver's blind zones or approaching from the sides while backing up. Reverse automatic emergency braking is a newer addition, designed to apply the brakes when a collision with something behind the vehicle is imminent. For parking confidence, a surround-view camera system provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle and can include guidelines and warnings when obstacles are nearby.

Edmunds' review of used-market availability illustrates how features move through trims and generations. For example, a 2016 Toyota RAV4 could have forward collision warning and automatic braking only on higher trims, and blind-spot warning was often optional. By 2020, the RAV4 had standard FCW and AEB, with a surround-view camera system offered as an option. The pattern is common across brands: newer-year models are more likely to come with these aids as standard or in bundled packages.

To shop effectively, buyers should verify feature availability on a per-vehicle basis. Reputable auto sites such as Edmunds offer guidance on what to look for and how to confirm which features are present on a given car. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website also provides safety ratings and recall information that can help buyers assess the reliability of driver-assist systems. Some shoppers turn to artificial intelligence-based search tools to speed up discovery, but they should check sources and confirm features with the dealer or the vehicle’s window sticker.

Across the market, an increasing number of used cars and trucks are equipped with driver aids that can help drivers avoid accidents and reduce the stress of daily driving. As a general rule of thumb, buying the newest year you can afford will improve the odds of getting more advanced driver assists as standard equipment. The evolving landscape means careful research is essential: identify the features you want, confirm their presence in the specific vehicle, and consider how available packages or trim levels align with your price point.

This story was provided to The Associated Press by Edmunds. Nick Kurczewski is a contributor at Edmunds.