When shopping for a used car, safety should always be at the top of your checklist. Whether you're browsing vehicles for sale in Richmond, VA or researching the best safety options for your family, knowing what features to look for can make all the difference. At United Auto Sales, your trusted car dealer in Richmond, we prioritise your well-being on the road with our high-quality inventory of pre-owned vehicles.
Let’s explore the top safety features found in today’s used cars and how you can ensure your next vehicle offers maximum protection.
Understanding Vehicle Safety Ratings
Before diving into specific features, it’s important to understand how safety ratings work. Two major organizations conduct crash tests and rate vehicle safety:
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
- Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS)
Both evaluate crashworthiness, crash avoidance, and mitigation. Look for vehicles that have a 5-star rating from NHTSA or are Top Safety Picks by IIHS.
Why Safety Matters in Used Vehicles
Safety technology has rapidly evolved in the last decade. Buying a modern used car doesn’t mean compromising on safety. In fact, many used cars now come equipped with advanced safety features once exclusive to luxury vehicles.
At our Richmond used car dealership, we stock late-model vehicles with robust safety technologies—providing affordable, reliable, and safe options for your daily drives.
Top 10 Safety Features in Today’s Used Cars
Here’s a breakdown of must-have safety technologies and how they help drivers:
| Feature | Function |
| Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) | Prevents wheel lock during emergency braking. |
| Electronic Stability Control | Helps prevent skidding during sharp turns or wet conditions. |
| Traction Control | Reduces wheel spin during acceleration on slippery surfaces. |
| Blind-Spot Monitoring | Alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots. |
| Forward Collision Warning (FCW) | Warns of potential front-end collisions. |
| Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) | Applies brakes automatically to prevent or reduce crash severity. |
| Lane Departure Warning (LDW) | Alerts when the vehicle drifts out of its lane. |
| Rearview Camera | Assists with safer reversing and parking. |
| Adaptive Cruise Control | Maintains a safe following distance from the car ahead. |
| Cross-Traffic Alert | Warns of vehicles approaching from the side when backing out. |
These features are increasingly available in many used cars in Richmond, VA, especially models from the past 5–7 years.
Benefits of Buying a Safer Used Car
Peace of Mind
Knowing your vehicle is equipped with life-saving technology builds driver confidence.
Reduced Insurance Premiums
Cars with modern safety features often qualify for lower insurance rates.
Enhanced Resale Value
Buyers are willing to pay more for cars that prioritise safety.
Popular Used Models with Excellent Safety Ratings
Here are a few models commonly found at used car dealerships in Richmond, VA that stand out for safety:
- Toyota Camry – Equipped with Toyota Safety Sense.
- Honda Accord – Offers Honda Sensing Suite.
- Subaru Outback – Comes standard with EyeSight Driver Assist.
- Mazda CX-5 – Known for excellent crash test performance.
- Ford Fusion – Offers a suite of active safety features.
Looking for any of these? Visit Richmond Best Auto Sales to explore current inventory.
Infographic: Top Safety Features to Look for in a Used Car
Here’s a visual summary of the safety essentials:
📊 [Infographic Placeholder – Include graphic showing top safety features and their impact]
- Airbags & Crumple Zones
- Driver Assistance Technologies
- High-Strength Safety Cage
- Rear-View and 360° Cameras
- Automatic Braking Systems
Tips for Evaluating Safety in a Used Car
1. Review the Vehicle History Report
Always check for:
- Past accidents
- Recall notices
- Maintenance records
2. Test Safety Features During a Test Drive
Don’t hesitate to ask your Richmond car dealership to demonstrate safety systems during your visit.
3. Verify Manufacturer Recalls
Use NHTSA's site or ask the dealer to confirm there are no outstanding recalls.
4. Get a Pre-Purchase Inspection
Having a mechanic inspect the car ensures the safety features function correctly.
How United Auto Sales Prioritizes Your Safety
As one of the best used car dealerships in Virginia, we go above and beyond to deliver vehicles you can trust.
- Thorough vehicle inspections
- Hand-selected inventory
- Transparent pricing and history reports
- Wide selection of safety-enhanced cars
Whether you're a parent, commuter, or student, we have something safe and reliable for you.
Additional Safety Technologies to Consider
Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)
Improves fuel economy and reduces the risk of blowouts.
ISOFIX / LATCH for Child Seats
Crucial for families with young children.
Emergency Assist
Activates hazard lights and slows the vehicle during a medical emergency.
Explore all of these features with our car dealer in Richmond, VA.
Final Thoughts: Safety & Smart Shopping Go Hand in Hand
Choosing a used car doesn’t mean settling for less—especially when you shop with United Auto Sales. We’re here to help you find a car that protects you and your passengers at every turn. With a wide range of vehicles for sale in Richmond, VA, we ensure that safety meets affordability.
Start browsing today or schedule a test drive with the most trusted name in Richmond used car dealerships.
FAQs: Safety in Used Cars
Are used cars as safe as new cars?
Yes, many used cars—especially models made in the last 5–7 years—feature advanced safety systems comparable to new models. Always check crash ratings and safety features before buying.
What safety features should I prioritize in a used car?
Look for features like ABS, airbags, traction control, rear-view cameras, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. These reduce the risk of accidents and injury.
How can I check a used car’s safety rating?
Use websites like NHTSA and IIHS to view safety scores and crash test results for specific makes and models.
Do safety features affect insurance premiums?
Yes. Cars with modern safety tech often qualify for lower premiums. Insurance companies see them as lower-risk vehicles.
Can I add safety features to a used car?
Some features like backup cameras or TPMS can be added post-purchase. However, features like lane departure or automatic braking are typically built-in.
Where can I buy a safe used car in Richmond, VA?
United Auto Sales offers a hand-picked selection of safe, affordable used vehicles. Visit our dealership page to explore current deals and schedule a test drive.