We recently reported on
power window safety and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA) rulemaking on adding technology known as auto-reversing systems (ARS) to all vehicle windows. This feature would help avoid injuries by stopping a window if an obstruction is detected. NHTSA has proposed to not mandate ARS on all vehicle windows since they feel the majority of the injuries are addressed by the
safer switches that will be mandated in all vehicles next year. Auto-reverse systems are found on power windows that feature an express-up function, which is a system whereby the operator can pull on the switch to close the window and then let go allowing the express-up system to fully close the window. The auto-reverse system is designed to automatically send the window back down if there is an obstacle between the window and the window frame.
We decided to take a look at the 2010 models compiled by NHTSA to find out how many vehicles already have the ARS technology, express-up functions and which ones do not. Out of the list of over 400 vehicles, almost 23 percent have ARS standard on all windows in the first- and second-rows of the vehicle. Nearly 39 percent of vehicles do not offer auto-up or ARS technology at all and 28 percent of vehicles offer the safety feature in the driver or first-row windows. (This includes two-seaters, as well.) The rest of the models have ARS as an optional feature in the driver's window or in both driver and passenger windows.
Many upscale manufacturers offer auto-up and ARS feature as standard on all 2010 model windows including Acura, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo. All other manufacturers offer a mix of availability depending on the model.
Use this
link to see NHTSA's list of 2010 model year vehicles that offer the ARS technology.
Even though NHTSA is not mandating the new technology on all cars, they are proposing to require automatic reversal systems on windows that already have a one-touch or "express up" mechanism to close without continuous pulling up of the window switch by the operator. However, because most rear windows are not one-touch or "express up," there have been cases where operators have been pulling up on the switch, raising the window, and not noticed that someone has a finger (or worse a child's head) through the window causing injury or death. Consumers Union believes the requirement for ARS would be a good addition to help prevent these types of injuries.
If you have young children, ARS technology, as well as other safety features such as a backup camera, may be important to you. In some models it may be an added cost or additional package or you may need to purchase a higher-priced trim line.
Do your research first.
ConsumerReports.org provides safety feature information, government and insurance industry crash test ratings, our own dynamic test results, and evaluation of child-seat fitment. In addition, you'll find road tests, reliability ratings, and owner satisfaction ratings. You may want to also explore the manufacturer's Web sites for further details.
—
Liza Barth
