In an era of increasingly sophisticated mobility, vehicle safety features are not only limited to seat belts or airbags. One innovation that is now a new standard in the automotive industry is speed sensing door locks. Also popularly known as auto door locks, this feature is increasingly spreading to modern cars. Especially those oriented towards active safety.
Getting to Know the Concept and Technology of Speed Sensing Door Locks
Basically, auto door locks are part of a car’s electronic security system that is integrated with a speed control unit. In addition, they are also connected to a central locking system.
This technology utilizes a vehicle speed sensor. Generally connected to the ECU to determine when the doors should be locked automatically.
How it works is quite simple. When the car reaches a certain speed, usually between 10 and 20 km/h, a signal is sent from the speed sensor to the ECU. The ECU then sends a command to the central locking module to lock all vehicle doors.
This process takes place automatically without the need for driver intervention. However, on some models, the driver can adjust or deactivate this feature through vehicle settings.
In some of the latest models, the system is also integrated with advanced features. Such as auto-unlock when a collision occurs, or automatic opening when a smart key is detected within a certain distance.
Benefits of Auto Door Locks
The speed sensing door locks feature offers a number of benefits, especially in terms of safety and comfort for drivers and passengers. Some of these benefits include:
- With doors that automatically lock, the risk of robbery or hijacking when the vehicle stops at a red light or in congested conditions can be minimized.
- In situations where children are sitting in the back seat, auto door locks help prevent them from opening the door accidentally. Especially when the car is moving.
- Doors that open while the vehicle is moving can cause serious accidents. This feature automatically ensures that all doors remain locked during the trip.
- Without the hassle of manually locking the doors, the feature provides peace of mind, especially when driving in areas prone to crime.
Cars with Auto Door Lock Features
Speed sensing door locks technology is no longer exclusive to premium cars. Many world car manufacturers have adopted this feature in almost all of their product lines. Including in the entry-level and mid-range vehicle segments.
For example, the Nissan Terra. In the IstGems YouTube channel, the steps to activate the automatic door lock feature based on its speed are explained.
Start by inserting the key into the ON position without turning on the engine. Press and hold the door lock button. Within 20 seconds after the key is in the ON position, press and hold the door lock switch in the locked position (LOCK) for 5 seconds.
If the process is successful, the hazard lights will flash twice. To deactivate this feature, repeat the steps above. The difference lies in the number of hazard lights flashing. One flash indicates the feature is deactivated.
The speed sensing door lock feature is also available on other brands. For example, Hyundai, which is customized through a digital head unit for user preference settings. There are also BYD Atto 3 and Seal. So, its existence is not just an additional feature. But an integral part of the active safety system of modern vehicles. Therefore, when buying a new vehicle, be sure to consider the presence of this feature.
