The family's safety in an accident is an important point to consider when purchasing a new vehicle. Here’s an overview of some of the most important features.

Airbags
Passenger and driver-side dual airbags are now required in all vehicles sold in the United States. Recent advances in airbag technology have introduced side air bags that tests show are effective in preventing the driver and passengers from hitting their heads on rigid areas of the vehicle in side impact collisions.

Airbag Shut-Off Switch
Because the force of airbag deployment has the potential to injure a child or small-stature adult, many vehicles now come equipped with an airbag shut-off switch.

Back Up Sensing System
Remember when your parents backed over your bike in the driveway? This system prevents just such occurrences. A proximity sensor in the rear portion of the vehicle senses when the vehicle gets too close to an object and warns the driver.

Child Safety Seat Tethers
Now referred to as the LATCH “Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children” system, the new safety seat tethers make it easier for parents to know they have installed a child safety seat correctly. Tether straps attach the safety seat to the rear shelf of the car and rear seat belt area.

Integrated Child Booster Seats
A built-in child's booster seat, which usually folds down in the center of the rear seat, comes as an option on many family size vehicles.
Buying a new car should be fun. But be careful, you can end up overpaying or with a vehicle that you won’t be happy with.
Here you’ll find ther top mistakes that car buyers often make—and how to avoid them.
1. Falling in love with a model.
Emotion shouldn’t rule the day. Focus on your real wants and needs.
2. Skipping the test drive.
A test drive is your best chance to see how a vehicle measures up and how well it “fits” you and your family.
3. Negotiating down from the sticker price.
Don’t use the sticker price as your gauge when negotiating a deal, negotiate from what the dealer paid.
4. Focusing only on the monthly payment when negotiating.
Settle on the vehicle’s price first, then discuss a trade-in, financing, or leasing.
5. Buying the “deal” instead of the vehicle.
Just because you can get a good discount doesn’t mean you should buy the vehicle.
6. Waiting until you’re in the dealership to think about financing.
Check interest rates at banks, credit unions, or online financial sites to see which offers you the best rate.
7. Underestimating the value of modern safety features.
Research the benefit of all available safety features. Look for vehicles that have the ones you need.
8. Buying unnecessary extras.
Don’t accept unnecessary services and fees.
9. Not researching the value of your current car.
It’s critical that you research the value of your current car before buying your new one.
10. Not having a used car checked.
 Before you buy a used vehicle, have it scrutinized by a repair shop that does diagnostic work.