The BMW brand is one that’s been associated with power, luxury and safety for more than a century. When you get behind the wheel of one of these marvels of automotive engineering, you can expect a ride that you’ll never forget. BMW may design their cars with the top safety features in mind, but there are still a few things you can do and changes you can make to help make your vehicle safer in the long run.
Author’s Note: Many of these features, such as the reverse cameras and blind-spot alerts, may already be available only to your BMW. We’re still going to include them for drivers who may not have purchased those options or driving older BMW models.
1. Upgrade Your Tires
You can install every safety device known to man or beast on your BMW, but if you are running cheap tires, you’re not doing everything possible to keep yourself safe on the road. The quality of your tires controls everything from how well the car grips the road to how quickly you can stop in different conditions.
Opt for higher-quality tires, and make sure you’re choosing the right type for your location. Someone in Florida would not need heavy-duty winter tires, but the summer tires you might use in the Sunshine State won’t be enough to keep you safe during the cold winter months.
2. Organize Your Cables
We take our electronic devices with us everywhere, which often means having a bundle of charging cables stashed away under the dash or in the center console. These cables are convenient, but if they get tangled or twisted around vital components — like your gearshift or emergency brake — they can get dangerous.
Take the time to organize your cables and keep them out of the way whenever possible. Ideally, you don’t want to use your phone or other mobile devices while driving, but that doesn’t mean you can’t plug it in and charge it while you’re en-route to your destination.
3. Investing in Ignition Interlock Devices
We all know better than to get behind the wheel drunk, but that common sense won’t stop an inebriated thief — or a drunk friend — from making off with your BMW if they can get behind the wheel. Interlock ignition devices require the driver to blow into a breathalyzer before the engine starts.
If the device detects they’ve been drinking, the car won’t start. Law enforcement offices usually install interlock devices after someone is convicted of a DUI or DWI. Still, there are systems you can install in your vehicle as a precautionary measure.
4. Install Dash/Reverse Cameras
No one wants to think about getting into an accident, especially if they drive a BMW, but these things happen. Assuming that you’re not injured, the biggest challenge lies in proving who was at fault. If you don’t have dash cams installed in your vehicle, it’s your word against the other driver’s word.
Dashcams provide irrefutable proof that you can provide to law enforcement and your insurance company to prove your case. Reverse cams also make it less likely that you’re going to crash into a curb or another car when your vehicle is in reverse.
5. Stick to Your Maintenance Schedule
Every vehicle that rolls off the assembly line regardless of its make or model comes with a recommended maintenance schedule. Sticking to that schedule doesn’t just help keep your car running smoothly. It can also help make your BMW safer.
Tasks like rotating and aligning the tires can ensure that you get the best possible traction while you’re on the road. Other tasks, such as changing the oil and swapping out the filters, may not need to happen as frequently, but they’re just as important.
6. Install Blind-Spot Alerts
Many newer luxury cars come equipped with blind-spot alerts, but if your driving an older model or didn’t opt for that add-on, there are aftermarket options available. These sensors alert you if someone is hidden in your blind spot, helping you prevent accidents and protect other drivers on the road.
This feature is essential if you live or drive in an area that sees a lot of motorcycle traffic. It is very easy for these smaller vehicles to hide in blind spots, especially if you’re not hyper-vigilant when navigating highways or changing lanes.
Stay Safe Out There
Whether you’re driving the newest BMW on the market or using an antique model as your daily driver, these simple steps can help make your car safer. They don’t require any massive changes or investments, but they can make an enormous difference when you’re out on the highway.