What Is Speed-Sensing Auto Door Lock?
Speed-sensing auto door lock is a safety and convenience feature that automatically locks all the doors of your car once it crosses a pre-determined speed. The primary purpose of this system is to ensure that all doors are securely locked while the car is in motion, which is crucial for passenger safety, especially for children. It also adds an extra layer of security, deterring potential carjackers or thieves from opening your doors when you’re stopped in traffic.
How Does Speed-Sensing Auto Door Lock Work?
The system relies on the vehicle’s speed sensor, which is part of the car’s engine control unit (ECU) or body control module (BCM).
Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Speed Monitoring: The speed sensor continuously measures the vehicle’s speed.
- Threshold Detection: The BCM is programmed with a specific speed threshold. This is usually a low speed, typically between 10kmph and 20kmph.
- Signal Transmission: As soon as your car’s speed exceeds this threshold, the BCM sends a signal to the door lock actuators.
- Automatic Locking: The actuators then engage, automatically locking all the doors.
Conversely, the system is designed to automatically unlock the doors when:
- The car’s speed drops to zero and the driver’s door is opened.
- The ignition is turned off.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of Speed-Sensing Auto Door Lock?
Here are the pros, or advantages, of speed-sending auto doo lock :
- Enhanced Child Safety: This is the most significant benefit. The feature prevents children from accidentally opening doors while the car is moving, greatly reducing the risk of them falling out.
- Increased Security: It acts as a deterrent against unauthorised entry when you are stuck in traffic or a crowded area.
- Convenience: You don’t have to worry about manually locking the doors every time you start your journey. The system does it automatically.
- Peace Of Mind: Knowing that your doors are always locked at speed provides a sense of security and a more relaxed driving experience.
Here are the cons, or disadvantages, of speed-sending auto doo lock :
- Potential Inconvenience: Passengers who need to get out quickly after the car stops might find it slightly inconvenient if they have to wait for the automatic unlocking or manually unlock their doors.
- Malfunction Risks: While rare, a system malfunction could lead to the doors not locking or unlocking unexpectedly.
- Emergency Situations: In the rare event of an accident where the electrical system is compromised, the central locking system might malfunction. However, most modern cars have a manual override or a mechanical lock-release mechanism for such emergencies.
Can Speed-Sensing Auto Door Lock Be Fixed From The Aftermarket?
Yes, absolutely. Installing a speed-sensing auto door lock as an aftermarket feature is a common and relatively straightforward process in India. Many car accessory shops and online retailers offer standalone modules or complete central locking kits with this functionality.
The cost can vary depending on the brand and features, typically ranging from a few thousand rupees to upwards of Rs. 10,000. Professional installation is highly recommended to ensure the system is wired correctly and functions without any electrical issues.
What Are Some Affordable Cars In India That Come With Speed-Sensing Auto Door Lock?
Many budget-friendly cars in India now offer this feature as standard or on their higher-end variants. Some of the most popular affordable models that include this feature are:
- Maruti Suzuki Alto K10
- Maruti Suzuki Swift
- Maruti Suzuki Baleno
- Tata Punch
- Hyundai i10 Grand Nios
- Renault Kiger
- Nissan Magnite
Also Read: Impact-Sensing Auto Door Unlock – Feature Explained
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