Are you always concerned about car collisions on the road? Rightfully so! Even a minor crash can cost a fortune to repair. More importantly, it can injure you and others nearby. The first priority when driving is your safety. That is why modern solutions, like driving assistance tools, are widely used. One such example is an aftermarket pre collision system that ensures your protection on the road.
You can install the aftermarket collision warning system in your cars and commercial vehicles, like buses and trucks. Its purpose is to assess the situation and alert the driver, saving them from an accident. How does it work, and what are its main benefits? Let’s look at everything in this detailed guide!
Workflow Of Aftermarket Pre Collision Systems
An aftermarket pre collision system has a straightforward working mechanism. Even if you are inexperienced with safety driving technologies, you can quickly understand this one. Its workflow is divided into three main steps. Let’s go through them one by one:
1. Vehicle Detection
The first step of an aftermarket collision avoidance system is to detect a vehicle. It distinguishes between stationary and non-stationary objects. Generally, the system performs this action with its components, like sensors and cameras. The detection components can vary depending on the system’s model and type.
2. Situation Evaluation
The second step involves tracking an oncoming vehicle’s position. It detects multiple objects at the same time. However, it asses the situation by identifying which vehicle can be a potential threat.
Typically, these systems have tools to perform data analysis. So, they can differentiate between a threat and a non-threat vehicle.
3. Alert the Driver
If the sensors detect a possible collision, they alert the driver. Many systems have automated features to assist in such situations. That’s because acting at the last second can be very challenging.
The alert system can vary depending on your system’s model. Some have flashing lights, while others have audible chimes. And many have both, known as a hybrid system.
Types Of Collision Avoidance Systems
The working of an aftermarket pre collision system can vary depending on its type. Usually, these systems are of two main types. Let’s discuss them both to provide a clearer picture:
1. Aftermarket Collision Avoidance Assist System
A collision avoidance assist system is a modern take on its traditional counterpart. It has automated features that come in handy to avoid collisions. These systems have two primary functions. The first is adaptive cruise control, which ensures your vehicle follows the speed limit. Another function is emergency braking, which triggers automatically after evaluating the situation to prevent crashing.
2. Aftermarket Collision Warning System
This type does not have automatic features, like the assist system. Instead, it only alerts the driver about a possible collision. It depends on the driver’s response time and skills to tackle the situation without damage. This system has common functions, like forward collision and pedestrian warning.
Key Features Of Aftermarket Pre Collision Systems
The features of an aftermarket pre collision system can differ based on its type and model. However, some basic functions are common throughout all the systems. Here are the key features you should know:
1. Forward Collision Warning
The simplest and most helpful feature is the forward collision warning, commonly called FCW. It alerts the driver of a potential crash in the front bumper area. This way, you can make an informed decision to prevent such a casualty.
An aftermarket forward collision warning system can detect vehicles up to 120 feet away. Additionally, it alerts the driver about 3 seconds before a possible collision, providing enough time to react wisely.
2. Lane Departure Warning
Another useful function is the lane departure warning or LDW. It alerts the driver during an uncertain scenario. This feature sends visuals or audible alarms if the driver deviates from their lane. That’s because such conditions can also lead to collisions with vehicles in the other lane.
3. Pedestrian Collision Warning
Sometimes, a vehicle might not be a threat. Instead, an unpredicted cyclist or pedestrian can cause collisions. If so, they can be heavily injured, considering they are not protected. Most systems can also detect scooters and longboarders as they can also cause crashes.
Other Features Of Aftermarket Pre Collision System
The biggest benefit of an aftermarket pre collision system is its wider range of features than a factory-installed one. Some systems have AI-driven functions to provide added safety and security.
These features include:
- Speed Limit Indicator: This function allows the driver to follow the specified speed limit on a highway. The driving assistance system automatically lowers your car’s speed by recognizing electronic traffic signs.
- Headway Monitoring: The aftermarket collision warning system automatically analyzes the speed and distance of the vehicle ahead. Based on these analytics, it triggers warnings to the driver if the driver gets too close.
4 Top Benefits Of Aftermarket Pre Collision Systems
How does an aftermarket pre collision system benefit you? Let’s look at its main advantages in detail.
1. Added Safety
Are you a new driver? Then you would always be overwhelmed and stressed on busy roads. That is why you need an aftermarket pre collision system. It saves you from fatal accidents by alerting you to what’s ahead. Plus, its powerful features help you save pedestrians, cyclists, and longboarders from severe injuries. Hence, it is a win-win situation!
2. Extra Car Protection
Sometimes, you might avoid a crash but still end up colliding your vehicle with something. Although you would be safe, your car will require a lot of money for maintenance and repair. You can cut down these costs using a collision avoidance system.
It keeps you one step ahead of the traffic and helps you keep your car in good shape, preventing minor and major damages.
3. Become Better
An aftermarket pre collision system keeps you updated about the road. This driving awareness and response timing makes you a much better driver. That is why this system is highly recommended for inexperienced drivers. They can learn quicker and develop better skills on the road.
4. A Convenient Option
The best part about an aftermarket collision avoidance system is its market availability. You can find this driving assistance tool in different types. Generally, it comes in universal models.
That means a truck collision avoidance system can be installed on almost all trucks, regardless of their models and build. Similarly, you can get one for your car, install it, and use it without inconvenience.
Why Aftermarket Pre Collision System is Better Than Factory-Installed One?
An aftermarket pre collision system is usually preferred over a factory-installed one. It is a more convenient and cost-effective option. That’s because cars with such driving assistance systems are comparatively more expensive. But that’s not the only comparable factor. Here’s why an aftermarket system is better:
1. More Features
A factory-installed pre collision system has higher accuracy. However, it has fewer features as compared to an aftermarket one. That’s because it is already integrated into a car/truck and can not be upgraded. Tools like the Toyota pre Collision system button are installed only to perform basic functions, like forward warning collision alerts.
On the other hand, aftermarket pre collision systems have more advanced features, like speed indication, pedestrian warning, etc.
2. Different Types
An aftermarket collision system can be found in different types. You will find the systems that assist and alert drivers, depending on your needs. However, that’s not the case with a factory-installed one. You do not have a choice since they are already installed in a car. You can not opt for another option and are limited to that specific type of system.
3. Repair and Maintenance
Aftermarket collision parts are easier to find. That’s because they are available abundantly in the market. Moreover, these systems can be easily repaired by a professional.
In contrast, a factory-installed system requires you to contact its specific company for repairs and maintenance. And its spare parts might not be easily found in the market.
4. More Accessibility
A factory-installed collision avoidance system is designed specifically for a single car. It is tailored to meet those requirements and work accordingly. That is why it may not suit all drivers.
Alternatively, an aftermarket system comes in universal models. These can be installed on all car models and work seamlessly. Due to more settings and features, they would suit better to more drivers.
Conclusion
Needless to say, an aftermarket pre collision system has its benefits. It is a useful driving assistance system that can be your lifesaver. With its robust detection, this tool can save you from fatal accidents. Using it can also protect others on the road and develop better driving awareness in you.
You can find these systems in various types and models. Each has its own strengths and demerits. The best way is to review your requirements to find the right option. Afterward, having multiple test drives with this system is recommended before heading to a busy highway. This simple tip can help you get used to the aftermarket collision warning system’s ins and outs.
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