Secondary controls
Look for: remote central locking; electric windows; electric or heated wing mirrors; anything automatic
Features found on some cars:
- With most remote central locking systems you press a button on a key fob to unlock the car.
- Some cars have a keyless entry system. You carry a card with you and, as you approach, the car unlocks itself. You push a button or touch a sensor with the card to start the engine. The car locks itself when you leave.
This key card for a Renault Senic works as a remote, using the buttons, and also unlocks the doors if you're carrying it when you touch the door handle.
With the key card in your pocket, you can start the vehicle using the push button
After you start the engine the handbrake is automatically released as you pull away. You can override this using an easy-to-use handle on the dashboard
- The range of automatic controls is growing. They include rain sensitive wipers, headlights which come on when it gets dark, and friendly lighting - the headlights stay on for a short while after you've left the car.
- On a wide range of cars you can have separate temperature zones in the back and front of the car, often as part of an air-conditioning system.
- Audio equipment on some models can be voice activated. Remote controls on the steering wheel for audio equipment are more common.
- A Global Positioning System can help with navigating. You tell it where you want to go and it gives you directions by voice or on a computer screen. Included or available as an option on many cars (from around £1,000) or it can be bought separately (from £100).
Adaptations which may help:
- The ignition key can be replaced with switches. These can be foot operated.
- Adaptation firms can move the ignition; around £300-£400.
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