Ask Joe Mechanic: FAQs for the Mechanic

Have you ever wondered which questions your mechanic hears most frequently in a day or week of working in a garage?  Are you curious if you’ve asked one of those FAQs?  We’ve done a little digging and have compiled a list of what gets asked most often at an auto service center.

• How much is it going to cost?
• Will my warranty cover it?
• How soon can I get my vehicle back?
• Do I really need to have the work done to my auto?
• Do you think it could be... or that…?
• What’s causing that noise?
• Will my car ever be the same?
• How closely should I stick to the recommended maintenance or my vehicle?
• When the “check engine” light turns on, what should I do?
• How often should I change my oil?
• How frequently do my spark plugs need to be changed?
• How do I know if my car is still under warranty?
• Do you take walk-in customers?
• Why should I choose you for the service my car needs?
• How long will it take you to get to my car?
• Is your work on my vehicle guaranteed?

So, how did you stack up against the FAQs and how often do you find yourself asking these questions?  We’d love to hear your experience relating to this week’s column. Feel free to share whether or not you ask these questions regularly of your mechanic and if you’ve been pleased or satisfied with the answers you’ve received.  Visit us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/autolocator) or tweet us on Twitter (www.twitter.com/auto_locator) with your thoughts and feedback.

Information for this article was sourced from mechanictogo.com, autos.com and mymechanicsf.com.  Image sourced from wikipedia.org. 

This Week’s Recalls:

Hyundai Motor America (Hyundai) is recalling certain 1.6 liter model year 2015 Sonata vehicles manufactured August 29, 2014, to October 28, 2014. The affected vehicles may have been assembled with an incorrect left axle shaft which may result in the shaft separating from the transaxle differential.  If the left axle shaft separates from the transaxle, the vehicle may stop moving, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, a separated axle shaft may allow the vehicle to roll away as the driver and other occupants exit the vehicle or anytime thereafter. A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of injury to exiting occupants and bystanders.

American Honda Motor Co. (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2015 Crosstour 4 Cylinder vehicles manufactured October 1, 2014, to November 4, 2014, Crosstour V6 2WD vehicles manufactured September 30, 2014, to November 13, 2014, and Crosstour V6 4WD vehicles manufactured September 30, 2014, to November 18, 2014. The inflator tube for the side curtain air bag may have been incorrectly manufactured.  If the side curtain air bag does not properly inflate, it can affect the performance of the air bag in the event of a vehicle crash, increasing the risk of occupant injury.

BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2014-2015 MINI Cooper Hardtop 2 Door, and Cooper S Hardtop 2 Door vehicles manufactured January 6, 2014, to October 17, 2014. During service appointments, dealers may have inadvertently reprogrammed the transmission control unit with software that may allow drivers to exit the vehicle when the transmission is not in Park. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention."  If the driver exits the vehicle without the transmission being in Park, the vehicle could roll away as the driver and other occupants exit the vehicle or anytime thereafter. A vehicle rollaway increases the risk of injury to exiting occupants and bystanders.

American Honda Motor Co. (Honda) is recalling certain model year 2014 Acura RLX vehicles manufactured November 22, 2012, to January 30, 2014, 2015 Acura RLX vehicles manufactured June 4, 2014, to November 18, 2014, and 2014 Acura RLX Hybrid vehicles manufactured November 5, 2013, to July 25, 2014. An aluminum film applied to the inner reflector of the headlight may experience adhesion issues causing the film to delaminate. Thus, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 108, "Lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."  Delamination of the aluminum film may diminish output of the headlight, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Farber Specialty Vehicles (Farber) is recalling certain model year 2005-2008 Winnebago WFG38S vehicles manufactured January 1, 2008, to December 24, 2009 equipped with certain model S2005, S2010, S5005, S5010, S5505, and S5510 wheelchair lifts manufactured by Ricon Corporation. The platform side plate of the affected wheelchair lifts may crack.  If the platform side plates crack, the lift platform can separate from the lift and come to rest against the vehicle's lift door. When the doors are opened, the platform may fall out, increasing the risk of injury to the lift operator.

Chrysler Group LLC (Chrysler) is recalling certain model year 2004-2007 Dodge Ram 1500 and Durango, 2005-2007 Dodge Ram 2500, Charger, Magnum, Dakota, Chrysler 300, 300C, SRT8, 2006-2007 Dodge Ram 3500 and Mitsubishi Raider, and 2007 Chrysler Aspen. Upon deployment of the driver side frontal air bag, excessive internal pressure may cause the inflator to rupture.  In the event of a crash necessitating deployment of the driver side frontal air bag, the inflator could rupture with metal fragments striking and potentially seriously injuring the vehicle occupants.

You Auto Know: Average Cost of Fuel

Many of us are used to driving in an era where prices at the pump have soared, dropped, ebbed and flowed depending
on the week, holiday and the like.  This week we're encouraged to read a bit of news from AAA that the Nationwide average cost of fuel has dropped to $2.32 per gallon, with many locations seeing the price per gallon as low as $1.99.  

To see how your state fairs compared to the other 48, visit the AAA fuel gauge site! 

So, what's the cheapest you remember ever paying for a tank of gas (or diesel) or even the price per gallon?  Tell us about your earliest memories of fueling up!

Ask Joe Mechanic: Tips for Choosing the Right Mechanic

Do your research before selecting a new mechanic.

Change is not always easy.  Especially when it comes to selecting a new mechanic, garage or service center to work on your family’s vehicles.  So, what steps can you take to make this selection process a little easier?   Not to worry, we’ve got you covered with some quick and easy tips to lessen the stress of picking a new mechanic.

·      Ask your family, friends or loved ones where they take their vehicles.  Nothing speaks volumes to the credibility of garage’s capabilities then getting a recommendation from those folks that you trust the most.

·      If you have a particular garage in mind – search for mentions of them on social media.  In a digital era wherein many customers are taking to Twitter, Facebook and similar websites to share their experiences with businesses, you’re bound to find reviews and ratings of the garage you’re considering.

·      Test-drive a new mechanic with a smaller project.  Before your vehicle requires a major repair, take it in for an oil change; tire rotation or similar type of service to get a feel for the customer service, quality of work, etc of the new location.  If you find yourself unhappy with the garage, at least you won’t be stuck with a big bill for a big repair.

·      Visit your local chamber of commerce and ask their staff for recommendations of member garages that have a solid reputation with nearby residents and other member businesses for quality of service.

·      Check with your Better Business Bureau location.  Since auto mechanics as a category of businesses tend to receive a great deal of complaints with the BBB, you can review their records to determine which garages in your area to avoid.

·      Find a mechanic that specializes in your particular model or make of vehicle.  A specialized mechanic is bound to know the ins and outs of your vehicle better than a generalist would.

There are a number of other tactics you can employ to narrow down your search for a qualified service center.  A few examples, check out certifications, look for a convenient location and stop by and ask questions about their service record.  Keeping all these things in mind should make your shopping around process a good deal less stressful.

Ask Joe Mechanic - Gifting a Car for Christmas

Many of us parents have considered whether or not we would be wise to give the gift of an automobile to our child for Christmas.  The thought of how their young face will light up with delight when they realize what is “under” the tree this year can bring a parent as much joy and delight as it does their recipient kid.  However, to do the automobile gift giving right, you must follow several steps put forth by the state of Pennsylvania. 
So, before you undertake this magnitude of gift giving, lets us help you make sure you have crossed all of your merry “t’s” and dotted all of your holiday “i’s”!  We will examine the steps need to do this in the state of Pennsylvania.

• To get started, make sure you have the vehicle title.
• If you’ve lost the title, you’ll need to apply for a replacement before you can gift the auto.
• PennDOT requires that you work with a notary to transfer a vehicle to your child.
• You’ll need to take your driver’s license and a recent bank statement, pay stub or utility bill with you to complete the title transfer.
• The recipient of the gifted vehicle will need to accompany you to the notary.
• The two of you will need to fill out the applicable sections of the title document to complete the transfer and sign it.
• Both the gift giver and recipient need to complete an Affidavit of Gift document (form MV-13ST) while at the notary.
• And with check or money order, the title transfer fee will need to be paid to complete the transaction. 
• Following the completion of the transaction, your kid has ten days to get the vehicle inspected by a garage or mechanic.
• Of course, auto insurance in order to legally drive the vehicle is a must-have as well.

Another angle of gifting an automobile is that of charitable giving.  Donating your vehicle to an automotive charity drive as part of your yearend giving is both an admirable thing.  Before giving, make sure you are familiar with the donation requirements of your state.  In Pennsylvania, if you want to donate a vehicle, you must fully own the vehicle and need to have the title to accompany it, or you cannot donate it.  If you’ve misplaced the title, than apply for a replacement before donation.

If you decide to gift or donate a vehicle this Christmas season, make yourself familiar with your states requirements, follow those steps and you can take some of the tedium out of the process.  Tis the season and we wish you ‘happy automobile giving and donating!’

Information for this article was sourced from www.DMVanswers.com.

Ask Joe Mechanic - Winter Driving Tips

             Since we have had a few minor weather inconveniences due to snow and ice, I felt it necessary to review important things to consider when driving in winter conditions.  We already covered getting your car prepared for winter, but it is also important to prepare yourself for everything that winter can throw at you.

             The first thing is preparation. Now is the time to get all the things ready that you should have in your vehicle just in case you have a problem this winter. If you live in an area where winter can strike early and hard, such as around Hazleton as I have experienced, all of these items can prove of great importance, and in extreme cases, could mean the difference between life and death! A winter survival kit should include; a snow shovel (collapsible ones are handy and do not take up much space), a scraper/snow brush, tire chains if you travel in an area that gets a lot of snow, a flashlight with extra batteries, a bag of cat litter, sand or salt incase you get stuck, jumper cables, flares or an emergency triangle, and a bright colored cloth to signal for help.

You should also have a tight-sealing container in which you pack candles, matches or lighter, bottled water and snacks such as energy bars. Some of the most important things you should have in your car during the winter are; mittens or insulated gloves and a ski mask, a sleeping bag or blankets, first aid supplies, and any prescription medications for at least 2 days including diabetic supplies and a fully charged cell phone. I know this list sounds extensive and maybe a bit extreme, but it is much better to be over prepared than to be stranded and possibly not see help for a couple days.  This happened to man from Pine Grove a few years ago, he was on his way home from work on RT 501 just a few miles north a Myerstown and got stuck.  His car sat completely buried on the roadway in a drift for three days until he was rescued.

            When you experience bad weather, it’s also imperative to use common sense. As soon as roads become slick, slow down and increase the distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. If someone insists on following you too closely, pull over when safe and let them pass. One fallacy that many fall victim to is that ‘I have a 4WD so I do not have to worry.’ Yes, 4WD definitely gives you more traction and gets you moving better, but, most 4WDs are heavier vehicles and that extra weight will actually increase braking distances on slick roads. Also, on ice, 4WD actually can be more tricky while under power and stopping. Giving extra room not only allows you more chance to stop, but if the vehicle in front of you or an oncoming vehicle has problems, you have more time and space to take evasive action.

            If you find yourself in a skid, there are a number of things to remember and to consider depending on the situation. If the rear wheels are skidding, take your foot off the gas and steer in the direction that the car is sliding. If the front wheels skid, take your foot off the gas, shift into neutral and allow the car to slow itself and then start to apply light braking and steer in the direction you want to go. Even an expert can sometimes have trouble recovering from a skid. Snow tires can aid you in snow, but they will not make much difference on ice unless they are studded. 

            Should your car break down or you become stuck, there are a few things to remember. If you are able, try to get your car safely off the road surface. Put out flares or the warning triangle to increase your visibility with other drivers. If you are stuck, you should try to shovel your vehicle out, use some abrasive material for traction and see if you can rock yourself free. If you are unable to get free, make a call for help, but do not over use your phone as to retain its charge. You can run your engine for heat about ten minutes every hour, but leave a window open slightly for ventilation and always keep snow clear of your exhaust to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Use your blankets or sleeping bag to keep warn and ration yourself on your snacks and water so that you do not exhaust your supply. Also remember that you can eat snow for your thirst, but not too much at once as this can lower body temperature. And, make sure it’s not yellow!

            Remember, some prior preparation, and use of common sense may prevent a very dangerous situation from developing!

You Auto Know: Trimming the Costs of Auto Ownership

According to the Automobile Association of America (AAA), the cost of owning a vehicle is on the rise. In its 2013 "Your Driving Costs" study, AAA determined the cost of owning a

Driving a smaller car instead of an
SUV can save drivers a considerable
amount of money over the course of a year.

vehicle is somewhere between $7,000 and $11,000 annually depending on the type of vehicle. That's a substantial amount of money and may leave many motorists looking for ways to reduce the cost of automobile ownership.

Driving is a way of life for many people left with little choice but to keep a vehicle. Thanks to mass transportation, city dwellers might be able to get by without owning a vehicle, but those who live in rural communities or even the suburbs often find that public transportation runs too infrequently or inefficiently to meet their needs. There are ways for those who need their own automobiles to reduce the financial burden of vehicle ownership.

·      Downsize your vehicle. In its study, AAA found that the average cost of owning a vehicle varied considerably depending on the size of that vehicle. That should come as no surprise, as larger vehicles tend to consume more fuel and, as a result, cost more money. But drivers might be surprised to learn just how much less it costs to own a small sedan than it does a four-wheel-drive sport utility vehicle. Small sedans cost the least amount of money to own at $6,967 annually, while four-wheel-drive SUVs cost nearly twice that amount, setting their owners back $11,599 per year. But the most surprising thing from the AAA study might be its findings as to the costs of owing a large sedan. Such vehicles are nearly as expensive as larger SUVs, costing drivers more than $11,000 per year. So drivers who downsize their vehicles to a small sedan will likely save themselves a substantial amount of money over the life of the vehicle.

·      Drive safe and cash in on lower insurance premiums. Though numerous factors, including individuals' driving histories, influence the cost of auto insurance, drivers with clean track records might be able to buck the industry trend and pay less for their auto insurance policy next year than they did this year. In its study, AAA found that the cost of insurance rose by nearly 3 percent in 2012 from the year before. But drivers who can avoid accidents and citations are likely to see their rates decrease from year to year.

·      Buy a used car. Buying a used car may not give buyers the initial excitement of driving off a car lot behind the wheel of a brand new vehicle, but it might prove quite exciting for your bank account. Revisiting a study they conducted in 2001, in 2013 experts at automotive Web site Edmunds.com examined three different financing methods and the cost of each over a six-year period, which the global market intelligence firm Polk estimates is the average car ownership period. The study examined the costs, including interest rates and fees, of leasing or buying a 2013 Honda Accord EX and buying a used 2010 Accord EX. The total cost of buying used after six years was $20,960, while the cost of leasing was $24,768 and the cost of buying new was $28,330. Buying used even saves buyers money when factoring in equity. Of course, leasing saves drivers the cost of maintenance and repairs, which can be considerable when buying used vehicles. However, an older used car won't cost as much to insure as a vehicle that is being leased or financed.

·      Drive less. Of course, the easiest way for automobile owners to trim the costs of owning their vehicles is to drive less. Though vehicle manufacturers have improved fuel economy in recent years, driving less will save money on fuel, the cost of which hinges on a host of factors, including petroleum demand and economic conditions. Such factors may cause a dip in fuel prices one day, but a sharp increase in price the next day. Regardless of those fluctuations in fuel prices, drivers who can cut back on their driving are certain to save money.

The cost of vehicle ownership is on the rise. But motorists who rely on their vehicles can still find ways to save money. 

Your Auto Know: Giving Your Car "Curb Appeal"

“Curb appeal” is a term often associated with selling a house. Homeowners selling their

A pre-owned car with curb appeal
is far easier to sell than a vehicle that
appears dirty or poorly maintained.

homes want to improve their home’s external appearance so it creates a stronger first impression when prospective buyers first pull up to the curb for an open house or a visit with their realtor.

But while curb appeal is often uttered in real estate parlance, the term also is applicable when selling cars. Private sellers want to make their vehicles look as nice as possible, giving it the kind of curb appeal that impresses potential buyers the moment they see the vehicle. Improving a car’s curb appeal typically doesn’t require as much work as doing the same for a home, but the following are a few ways sellers can improve the look of their vehicles in an attempt to impress prospective buyers.

• Give the car a good wash. The easiest way to improve how a car looks from the outside is to wash and wax it. Sellers should make this part of their vehicle maintenance routine until the car is sold. If you’re driving the car while you’re attempting to sell it, wash and wax the vehicle each week. Always wash the car before a prospective buyer is scheduled to come over and take a look. Spray detailers can be used to give the car some extra sparkle.

• Don’t forget the interior. While a car’s exterior contributes heavily to a buyer’s first impression of the vehicle, the interior also bears heavy influence on any potential buyers. Vacuum the vehicle’s interior, including both the floorboards and the seats, and clean the windows and windshields from the inside. Once the cup-holders have been vacuumed, clean them with a damp cloth to remove any coffee stains or spots where something may have melted. A dirty interior may make buyers question if the rest of the vehicle, especially what’s under the hood, was properly maintained, so be sure to include this easy step as part of your curb appeal routine. Clean the interior as necessary until the car is sold.

• Park the car in the garage. Whether you plan to keep driving the car every day until it’s sold or intend to keep it parked until the right buyer comes along, try to park the car in your garage or in some place where it’s protected from the elements. This prevents any additional damage from harsh weather and ensures a freshly washed car won’t succumb to falling leaves or other debris that may necessitate another washing.

• Clean under the hood. While it’s easy to notice the buildup of dirt and grime on the interior and exterior of the vehicle, it’s not as easy to notice any such buildup under the hood. And while sellers may not see such unsightly buildup even when they open their hoods, buyers almost certainly will. Plastic covers are typically placed over the engine on many late model vehicles, and these covers can accumulate grease and debris over time. A spray cleaner or detailer can remove such buildup to make what’s under the hood as visually impressive as your freshly cleaned interior and exterior.

• Clear out the trunk. No buyer wants to pop the trunk and see your golf clubs, beach chairs and cooler. When selling a car, remove all of your personal items from the trunk. This shows prospective buyers how much trunk space your vehicle is equipped with. In addition, an empty trunk will make the car lighter and, as a result, more smooth to drive, something buyers are sure to notice when they take the car out for a test drive.

The term “curb appeal” is just as applicable to selling a car as it is to selling a home, and sellers can improve their chances of selling their used vehicles dramatically if they take steps to improve the curb appeal of their cars and trucks.

You Auto Know: Cold Weather Motorcycling

The arrival of cooler temperatures means motorcycle enthusiasts should have a plan in place for their vehicles. Although fall sees many riders pack their bikes into the garage to

Riders should exercise caution when riding
motorcycles in late autumn and winter.

wait out the winter, many others see no reason to quit the great outdoors just because colder weather is on the way.

No matter which path riders take and when they take it, preparation is essential when riding motorcycles. Here are a few pointers for riders to consider once the leaves have started to change color.

Layer up

Layering clothing is a key component of riding a motorcycle in colder temperatures. Many people are not very active on the back of a bike, so they will not generate enough heat on their own. Layering clothing will take the bite out of frosty winds and any precipitation that happens to be falling.

Layer clothing so that you will feel comfortable, maybe even a bit warm when you are just standing around outdoors. A first layer of thermal or fleece is a good idea. Then layer other materials as needed for comfort. Just do not wear so many layers that your mobility is compromised. If layers are not keeping you warm enough, invest in heated clothing.

The outermost layer you wear should be weather- and wind-resistant. Wind chill can quickly sap your energy and cut your ride considerably. Leather clothing will fit the bill in most cases, but a rain suit or some other waterproof material also may be necessary at times.

Leaves

Leaves can be a significant hazard to riders in the fall. Damp leaves can make a slippery mess of roads, particularly on turns and curves.

Avoid all piles of leaves, as you do not know what may be hiding beneath them. Consider wet leaves as dangerous as black ice, as soggy leaves can be just as slippery.

Salt and sand

Road maintenance crews will use sand and salt to keep roads clear when snow and ice forms. Avoid riding on salty roads because the salt can corrode chrome and paint. If you choose to do any winter riding, apply a coat of wax to all parts of the motorcycle before going for a ride. This will help protect it and enable any salt to be easily wiped off after riding.

Standing water

If it rains or snows lightly after an extended period of dryness, oils in the road can come to the surface, making roads quite slick. In addition, stay on the lookout for puddles and other standing water. While motorcycle tires are good for displacing water, they still can hydroplane. Stay focused when riding on wet surfaces.

Foraging animals

One potential hazard riders may not consider is wildlife. Harvested crops reduce easy food sources, and animals may be on the move looking for food. Hunters can push deer out of fields. A collision with a deer can damage a car, never mind a motorcycle. Always use caution in rural areas, particularly at dawn and dusk.

Winterizing

If you choose to store your bike when the weather starts to get cold, remember to put a fuel stabilizer in the tank, fill the tank with gas and hook the battery up to a battery tender. This will ensure the bike is ready to hit the road when the temperatures warm up.

Happy Thanksgiving from Auto Locator!

From our family to you and yours, we wish you a Happy Thanksgiving!  

We hope you have a safe and joyous time traveling to and fro as you set off to visit family and friends.  

We are thankful now and all year long for your business and loyal support of Auto Locator!

Ask Joe Mechanic: Collision Avoidance Systems, Part II

                  This week we continue collision avoidance systems coverage with information on the Asian and European brands. While information on domestic manufacturer’s systems was sparse at best, and while the same was true of many of the import brands, one stood out by offering a wealth of information.

                  Toyota Motor Corporation's Pre-Collision System (PCS), the first production forward-warning collision system, is used on the manufacturer's Lexus and Toyota brand vehicles. It is a radar-based system that uses forward-facing millimeter-wave radar. When the system determines that a frontal collision is unavoidable, it preemptively tightens the seat belts, removing any slack, and pre-charges the brakes using brake assist to give the driver maximum stopping power instantly when the driver depresses the brake pedal. Toyota launched PCS in February 2003 on the redesigned Japanese domestic market Harrier, and in August 2003 added an automatic partial pre-crash braking system to the Celsior.

                  In September 2003, PCS made its first appearance in North America on the Lexus LS 430, becoming the first such system offered in the US. In 2004, Toyota advanced the system by adding to the radar a single digital camera to improve the accuracy of collision forecast and warning and control levels. It was first available on the Crown Majesta (Avalon). In 2006, the debut of the Lexus LS featured a further advanced version of the PCS; this newer version, dubbed Advanced Pre-Collision System (APCS), added a twin-lens stereo camera located on the windshield and more sensitive radar to detect for the first time smaller "soft" objects such as animals and pedestrians. A near-infrared projector located in the headlights allows the system to work at night. By using the LS's Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) and electric Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS), the system can change the suspension damper firmness; steering gear ratios and torque assist to aid the driver's evasive steering measures in a system known as "Collision-Avoidance Steering Support". The Lane Keep Assist system will make automatic steering adjustments to help ensure that the vehicle maintains its lane in case the driver fails to react.

Also unveiled for the 2007 model year, the world's first Driver Monitoring System was introduced on the Lexus LS, using a CCD camera on the steering column. This system monitors the driver's face to determine where the driver is looking. If the driver's head turns away from road and a frontal obstacle is detected, the system will alert the driver using a buzzer, and if necessary, pre-charge the brakes and tighten the safety belts. A later version of the Driver Monitoring System found in 2008 on the Crown monitors the driver's eyes to detect the driver's level of wakefulness. This system is designed to work even if the driver is wearing sunglasses, and at night.

Other advancements to the PCS appearing on the 2007 Lexus LS include the first rearward-facing millimeter-wave radar mounted in the rear bumper. This system adjusts the active head restraints by moving them upward and forward to reduce the risk of whiplash injuries if an imminent rear collision is detected.

                  Toyota began using Night View on the JDM 2002 Toyota Landcruiser Cygnus and on the 2003 Lexus LX 470 available in the US market. In 2008, Toyota added a pedestrian-detection feature on the Crown, which highlights pedestrians and presents them on an LCD display located in front of the driver. The latest Crown also uses a GPS-navigation linked brake assist function. The system, which is designed to determine if the driver is late in decelerating at an approaching stop sign, will then sound an alert and can also pre-charge the brakes to provide optimum braking force if deemed necessary. This system works in certain Japanese cities and requires Japan specific road markings that are detected by a camera.

In March 2009, on the redesigned Crown Majesta, Toyota again further advanced the PCS, adding front-side millimeter-wave radar to detect potential side collisions primarily at intersections or when another vehicle crosses the centerline. The latest version tilts the rear seat upward, placing the passenger in a more ideal crash position if it detects a front or rear impact.

Honda’s Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS) was originally introduced as “CMS” in 2003 on the Acura brand in the U.S. and Canada. It utilizes a radar based system to monitor ahead and provide automatic braking if the driver does not react to the instrument panel warning and tightening of the seat belts. Honda had the first production system to offer automatic braking and also incorporate “E pretensioner” electric tensioning of the front seatbelts. When activated, CMBS has three stages, first being audible and visual warnings to brake. In the second stage, the “E pretensioners” activate to encourage action. In stage three, with collision imminent, all seat belt slack is taken up and automatic brake activation takes place to lessen the severity of the crash.  In late 2004, Honda also introduced an Intelligent Night Vision System, which highlights pedestrians in front of the vehicle by using an audible chime and an image displayed on the Heads Up Display.

Mazda uses a system that they have named Smart City Brake Support, which uses lasers to detect vehicles or obstacles ahead of your vehicle. This system will apply braking and cut engine power in case of impending collision, and can usually avoid a collision if the speed differential between vehicles is less than 15 miles per hour.

Nissan and Infiniti offer a laser-based system on U.S. market cars, which pressurizes the braking system for maximum brake force. The system also uses adaptive cruise control sensors for some pre-crash data.  In 2008, Subaru introduced “Eyesight” on home market Legacy’s and Outback’s. This system used two CCD stereo cameras mounted on each side of the rear view mirror. The system also has lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control functions. In 2014 all Legacy, Forester and Impreza models worldwide now have the system and it was further upgraded using cameras which can detect intense color such as brake lights for input. These systems are only available on automatic and CVT transmission vehicles.

Audi’s system (Pre-Sense Plus) works in four phases. In the first phase, the system provides warning of an impending accident, while the hazard warning lights are activated, the side windows and sunroof are closed and the front seat belts are tensioned. In the second phase, the warning is followed by light braking, strong enough to win the driver's attention. The third phase initiates autonomous partial braking at a rate of 3 m/s² (9.8 ft/s²). The fourth phase decelerates the car at 5 m/s² (16.4 ft/s²) followed by automatic deceleration at full braking power, roughly half a second before projected impact.

A second system, called (Pre-Sense Rear), is designed to reduce the consequences of rear-end collisions. The sunroof and windows are closed and seat belts are prepared for impact. The optional memory seats are moved forward to protect the car's occupants. The system uses radar and video sensors and was introduced in 2010 on the 2011 Audi A8.

Fiat’s “City Brake Control” is designed as just that, a low speed crash sensing system designed for under 20 miles per hour. The system uses a “Lidar” laser sensor at the top of the windshield to perform a three step process. First detection activates an ABS pre-charge, second step enhances hydraulic brake assist sensitivity, and finally, automatic braking and audible warnings.

Mercedes' “Pre-Safe” system was unveiled in the fall of 2002 at the Paris Motor Show on the 2003 S-Class. Using ESP sensors to measure steering angle, vehicle yaw and lateral acceleration and Brake Assist (BAS) sensors to detect emergency braking, “Pre-Safe” can tighten the seat belts, adjust seat positions including rear seats (if installed), raise folded rear headrests (if installed) and close the sunroof if it detects a possible collision (including rollover). A later version of the Pre-Safe system was supplemented by an additional function that can close any open windows if necessary.

Pre-Safe Brake, Mercedes-Benz's first forward warning collision system, introduced in the fall of 2005 on the redesigned 2006 W221 S-Class, is cooperating with simultaneously introduced Brake Assist Plus (BAS Plus) and Distronic Plus systems and provides all the functions of previous Pre-Safe system while adding a radar-based system that monitors the traffic situation ahead and provides automatic partial braking (40%, or up to 0.4g deceleration) if the driver does not react to the BAS Plus warnings and the system detects a severe danger of an accident. At the 2009 North American International Auto Show, Mercedes unveiled “Attention Assist” on the 2010 E-class, which, based on 70 parameters, attempts to detect the driver's level of drowsiness based on the driver's driving style. This system does not actually monitor the driver's eyes. Also in 2009, Mercedes added the first fully autonomous braking feature that provides maximum braking force approximately 0.6 seconds before impact.

In 2013, Mercedes updated Pre-Safe on the redesigned W222 S-class. Pre-Safe added pedestrian detection, and a system called Pre-Safe Plus uses a rear radar, which tightens the seat belts, flashes the rear hazard lights and applies braking to minimize collision occupant forces. Pre-safe, also with pyrotechnic pretensioners, will tension the seat belt just prior to the collision.

                  Volvo’s “Collision Warning with Automatic Braking” was introduced on the 2007 S80. The system is operated through a radar/camera fusion and provides a Heads-Up display warning that looks like brake lights. If the driver does not react, the system precharges the ABS and increases brake assist sensitivity to maximize driver braking. Later versions can then perform automatic braking, especially in impending pedestrian impact situations. Volvo now introduced the first cyclist detection system in 2013. All Volvo’s systems are laser based.

Ask Joe Mechanic: Collision Avoidance Systems

         A collision avoidance system is an automotive safety system designed to reduce the severity of an accident. Please note what that statement said, it is designed to reduce the severity, not prevent or avoid an accident. The reason for this is because, number one, by the time the system takes over control, and there is a high likelihood that an accident can no longer be avoided. Number two; the system is limited in its capabilities of what it can do in the very brief time that it has to react to the situation. These systems are also known as pre-crash systems, forward collision warning system or a collision mitigating system.  The systems use sophisticated technologies such as radar, laser, cameras and ultrasonic sensors to gather and store information of an imminent crash. Once the detection is done, the systems analyze and compute the data and either warns the driver of an imminent collision, or the vehicle will take independent action by braking, steering or both.

            Since 2009, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been working independently, along with cooperative efforts with Euro NCAP to study whether to make frontal collision warning systems and lane departure warning systems as mandatory safety equipment on all vehicles. In 2011, the European Commission made a determination to require Advanced Emergency Braking Systems on all commercial vehicles of new design introduced after November 2013, and for all new vehicles built after November 2015 in the European Union. Their impact assessment at that time determines a possibility of saving 5000 lives and 50,000 serious injuries per year across the European Union.

            In 2012, an IIHS study found that two particular collision avoidance systems seemed to hold the biggest promise for immediate benefits. First, autonomous braking where the car would brake on its own if the driver does not react to avoid an impending collision, and second, adaptive headlights which would shift the headlights in the direction that the driver steers. Surprisingly, it was felt that at that stage of development, lane departure systems did not appear to be helpful, and in some cases, even harmful. This shows that even these new safety systems, designed to make our cars safer for us to operate, can sometimes over think, and need to be reigned in somewhat until technology catches up.

The technology in this category is changing almost every month. New models are being added almost every week, and the features and how the systems operate are constantly evolving. Some of the brands have actually gone to entirely new operating systems as they have determined that what they were using is being deemed obsolete. Because of this, much of the information that is available online is already out of date and not reliable. This is a feature that if you want more information, it is best to research online with the manufacturer’s website, if they post the information. Much of this information is closely guarded and not readily available to the average person as it is highly technical and most manufacturers are afraid of corporate spying.

            This week, I will give what basic information I was able to obtain on two domestic manufacturers, Ford and General Motors, and although Chrysler has its own system, I did not find any available information on the basics of how it works.  Ford’s Collision Warning with Brake Support was introduced in 2009 on the Lincoln MKS and MKT and on the Ford Taurus. The system provides a warning through a heads up display that appears resembling brake lights. If the driver does not react to the signal, the system will pre-charge the ABS braking and increase the brake assist sensitivity to maximize driver braking. Ford’s Obstacle Avoidance technology employs a mix of sensors including a camera behind the rearview mirror to scan for vehicles, pedestrians and obstacles and will steer away if the driver does not take action. Ford is currently working with a number of European automakers on a newer version of this system, which is much more sophisticated, using three radar sensors, ultrasonic sensors and a new camera able to scan out up to 650 feet.

            GM’s collision alert system is featured on the 2012 GMC Terrain, among other models, and uses camera technology to scan if there is a vehicle ahead or a lane departure.  The 2013 Cadillac ATS, XTS and SRX models feature low-speed automatic braking.  The 2014 Chevrolet Impala uses radar and camera based information to detect a possible threat and alert the driver. If the driver does not react or reacts too slowly, the system will intervene and apply braking to avoid a collision. The system will alert to forward collision, lane departure, and side blind zone alert and will indicate with LED signals on the dash or outside mirrors.

In the next post, I will address the systems by European and Asian manufacturers.