Car controls (view report contents)
Standard equipment that may help
If you’re buying a car, it can be worth looking out for particular features
Locking and ignition
- remote central locking
- windows close automatically when the car is locked
- push button start, to avoid keys
- remote start
Primary controls
For steering, braking and accelerating
- automatic transmission - a must for most disabled drivers.
- power assisted steering. Some cars have different settings, so you can instantly lighten the effort needed to steer
- cruise control to maintain a constant speed
Secondary controls
These are for such things as the horn, lights and indicators
- electric windows
- electric door mirrors
- heated windscreen
- heated wing mirrors
- wipers which switch on automatically when it rains
- lights which switch on automatically when it gets dark
- remote control for audio equipment - some can be controlled by voice
Parking
- parking distance sensor. Some use a TV camera to show how much space there is behind
finding your way
- a Global Positioning System (GPS) can give you audible route instructions. Check the controls are easy for you to use.
Comfort
- electrically operated seats - go up and down, back and forwards at the push of a button. Some have adjustable lumbar supports. Some seats have memory settings
- heated seats
- ventilated seats - allow air to circulate to prevent stickiness
- air conditioning and climate control. Some cars have settings which mean you can set different temperatures in the front and the back
Cabin space
- flat floor in between the front seats
Boot or hatch
- tailgate with fold down sill
- rear floor pulls out like a drawer
- rear seat folds flat by power at the touch of a button
- hatch which opens by power
Other useful features
- roof rail
- pollen filter
Also look for a car which is easy to get in and out of - large and wide door openings, wide opening doors and handholds in places which are convenient for you.
Report Contents
Introduction
Starting
points
Standard
equipment that may help
Some features
you can find on new Cars
Good design
The controls
Seating
Primary
controls
Gripping
the wheel
Other ways of
steering
Controlling
speed
Changing Gear
Parking brake
Pedals
Advanced
controls
Secondary
controls
Combined
Controls
Maintenance
Custom building
Moving controls
Safety
Who can drive
& other useful information
Finance
Helpful organisations
Mobility
Centres
Useful
publications
Addresses
