Technology

In-Car Tech: Why You're the Problem

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As the International Consumer Electronics Show kicks off this week in Vegas, new automotive tech advancements are making headlines from coast to coast. But when it comes to in-car technology, such as navigation, Bluetooth and in-car apps, there’s some healthy debate about whether or not these upgrades are making our lives better. Some say we’re trying to do too much from behind the wheel and that in-car systems are actually dangerous. However, this kind of argument assumes that all tech is the same. In fact, nothing could be further from the truth.

Technology Matters
Recently, AutoTrader.com conducted a technology survey where 48 percent of those surveyed said they would walk away from a car they liked if the technology was too difficult to use.

That result lines-up with what Ford also found. It states that, “43% of our owners tell us that SYNC was a critical/important part of their vehicle purchase decision.”

Obviously, technology in new and used cars is very important to the average shopper. But why would shoppers flock to features that make life more dangerous? Is there a way to make sure the technology features that come in your next car are exactly what you want?

The short answer is: yes. But the burden to find good in-car technology is on you. Once you get the car home, if you find that your vehicle’s infotainment system isn’t what you expected, you only have yourself to blame. You need to test out the technology the same way you would test drive the car. If you don’t do that, you’ll find out too late if a certain system or function isn’t what you expected.

Start Online
Before you visit a dealership, look up some informational articles or review videos to see which cars have easy-to-understand technology and which ones are highly rated by sites like AutoTrader, Gear Patrol or Wired. Your local dealer can help, too.

Sid Barron with Lexus of South Atlanta says, “We have a delivery specialist who can go into as much or little detail as a customer requires on features like Enform. Some people insist on going into every detail of every technological feature, but it’s rare.” Barron says they even have an aftercare program in which a specialist helps the purchaser with in-car technology even after they’ve bought the car. Many automakers and dealerships offer the same assistance.

When it comes to distractions, the Lexus Enform system is not one of the problems. In fact, brands such as Chrysler, Ford, Honda, Lexus, Nissan and Toyota have systems that get it mostly right — they may not be as robust as the in-car technology from other brands, but the simplicity of Entune or Uconnect really minimizes distraction.

Test Drive the Technology
Either way, you should be familiar with, and understand, each and every connection and technological feature before you decide to buy a car. Here are a few key steps you should take before…

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