Upgrading Older UK Cars with Adaptive Cruise Control: A Step-by-Step Guide
What is Adaptive Cruise Control and Why You Need It
Adaptive cruise control (ACC) is a sophisticated driving technology that has become increasingly common in modern vehicles. Unlike traditional cruise control, which maintains a constant speed regardless of the traffic ahead, ACC adjusts your car’s speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. This feature is particularly useful for long drives and congested roads, as it reduces the need for constant acceleration and braking.
“Adaptive cruise control systems can also be great on busier roads with a lot of traffic. Not only do the ACC systems react to your surroundings, they also mean you don’t have to worry about stopping and starting in traffic jams as the system takes care of that for you, providing you with an extra layer of safety,” explains the RAC Drive guide[1].
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Assessing Your Car’s Compatibility
Before you start thinking about upgrading your older car with ACC, you need to determine if it is even possible. Here are a few steps to assess your car’s compatibility:
Check the Vehicle’s Make and Model
Not all cars can be retrofitted with ACC. Typically, cars from the early 2000s onwards might have some form of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) that can be upgraded or integrated with ACC.
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Evaluate the Existing Technology
Look at the current features your car has. If your car already has basic cruise control, lane-keeping assist, or other ADAS features, it might be easier to integrate ACC.
Consult with a Professional
It’s crucial to consult with a professional mechanic or a specialist in automotive electronics to determine the feasibility of the upgrade. They can assess your car’s electrical and computer systems to see if they can support the new technology.
Types of Adaptive Cruise Control Systems
There are primarily two types of ACC systems: laser-based and radar-based.
Laser-Based Systems
These systems use lasers to scan the road ahead and detect obstacles. They are highly accurate but can be affected by weather conditions like fog or heavy rain.
Radar-Based Systems
These systems use radar to detect vehicles and other obstacles. They are more robust in various weather conditions and can cover distances of up to 200 meters[1].
Steps to Upgrade Your Car with Adaptive Cruise Control
Upgrading your car with ACC involves several steps, each requiring careful consideration and execution.
Step 1: Choose the Right System
Select an ACC system that is compatible with your car’s make and model. You might need to choose between aftermarket systems or those specifically designed by your car’s manufacturer.
| System Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Laser-Based | High accuracy | Affected by weather |
| Radar-Based | Robust in various weather | May have lower accuracy in certain conditions |
Step 2: Install the Necessary Hardware
This includes mounting the radar or laser sensors at the front of your car. These sensors constantly scan the road ahead for other vehicles.
- Radar Sensors: Usually mounted behind the front grille or on the bumper.
- Laser Sensors: Often integrated into the front of the car, sometimes within the headlights.
Step 3: Integrate with Your Car’s Computer System
You will need to connect the ACC system to your car’s onboard computer. This may require software upgrades and integration with existing ADAS features.
“Latest adaptive cruise control systems can automatically reduce your speed according to changing limits ahead. They’ll also work with automated lane keeping technology to effectively allow the car to drive down certain roads by itself – but the driver must remain in control,” notes the RAC Drive guide[1].
Step 4: Install Steering Assist and Other Necessary Features
For a seamless ACC experience, you may also need to install steering assist features. This includes lane centering technology that helps keep your car between the lane markings.
Example: Upgrading a BMW with Adaptive Cruise Control
If you own an older BMW model, upgrading to ACC might involve the following steps:
- Hardware Installation: Installing radar sensors and integrating them with the car’s existing systems.
- Software Upgrade: Updating the car’s software to support ACC. This might involve a remote software upgrade or a visit to a BMW service center.
- Steering Assist: Installing lane centering technology to work in conjunction with ACC.
Practical Considerations and Safety Tips
Understanding Your ACC System
Before using ACC, it’s crucial to understand how your system works and its limitations. Always remain in control of the vehicle and be ready to take over if necessary.
“Be aware of any situational limitations to your ACC system and remember that, as with any autonomous technology, you should always remain in complete control of your vehicle at all times and respond accordingly to the road ahead,” advises the RAC Drive guide[1].
Using ACC Safely
Here are some safety tips to keep in mind:
- Monitor the Road: Even when using ACC, keep an eye on the road and be prepared to intervene.
- Adjust Settings: Adjust the gap and speed settings according to road conditions.
- Avoid Distractions: Do not get distracted while driving, even if the car is in ACC mode.
Cost and Maintenance
Upgrading your car with ACC can vary significantly in cost, depending on the system you choose and the complexity of the installation.
Initial Cost
The initial cost includes the hardware and software needed for the upgrade. Here is a rough estimate of what you might expect:
- Hardware: £1,000 – £3,000
- Software: £500 – £1,500
- Installation: £500 – £1,000
Ongoing Costs
Some ACC systems, like Ford’s BlueCruise, require a subscription for continuous updates and data usage.
“After the initial 90-day free trial, BlueCruise auto renews onto a paid subscription for £17.99 per calendar month. You can cancel at any time,” explains Ford UK[2].
Upgrading your older car with adaptive cruise control can significantly enhance your driving experience, especially on long journeys and in heavy traffic. However, it requires careful planning, the right hardware and software, and a good understanding of the system’s capabilities and limitations.
By following these steps and considering the practical and safety aspects, you can enjoy the benefits of ACC in your existing vehicle, making your drives safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Upgrade
- Consult with Experts: Always consult with professionals before starting the upgrade process.
- Check Compatibility: Ensure that the ACC system is compatible with your car’s make and model.
- Test the System: Once installed, test the ACC system in a safe environment to get familiar with its operation.
With the right approach and the right tools, you can bring your older car into the modern era of driving technology, making every drive a pleasure.