How do I know if I have adaptive cruise control?
Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is an advanced driver assistance feature that automatically adjusts a vehicle's speed to maintain a safe following distance from the car in front. If your car is equipped with ACC, it can make highway driving more convenient and safer. Here's how to determine if your vehicle has this technology.
What is Adaptive Cruise Control?
Adaptive cruise control is an enhancement to the standard cruise control system found in many vehicles. While regular cruise control maintains a constant speed set by the driver, ACC uses sensors to detect the speed and distance of the car ahead and automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe following distance. This helps avoid collisions and makes long drives on the highway more relaxed.
ACC systems use a combination of radar, camera, and/or lidar sensors to monitor the road ahead. When the system detects a slower-moving vehicle in front of you, it will automatically reduce your speed to maintain a safe following distance. Once the road is clear, the system will accelerate your vehicle back up to the set cruise control speed.
How to Identify Adaptive Cruise Control in Your Car
There are a few ways to determine if your vehicle is equipped with adaptive cruise control:
- Check your owner's manual: The easiest way is to consult your vehicle's owner's manual, which should clearly indicate if ACC is included as a standard or optional feature.
- Look for ACC controls on the steering wheel: Most cars with adaptive cruise control will have additional buttons or switches on the steering wheel to enable and adjust the system.
- Inspect the front of your car: Vehicles with ACC typically have radar sensors or cameras mounted on the front grille or bumper to detect other vehicles.
- Test the system: When driving, try engaging the cruise control and see if it automatically adjusts your speed when a slower car is detected in front of you.
If your car has adaptive cruise control, you'll usually find information about how to use the system in your owner's manual or on the vehicle's infotainment display. Familiarize yourself with the controls and capabilities of ACC before relying on it during highway driving.
