When you buy a new vehicle, you expect it to come with the latest technology, especially when it comes to safety. But in 2025, several automakers made subtle changes to their offerings, and not all of them are upgrades. Some removed car safety features entirely, often without much notice, citing supply chain issues, cost savings, or shifting design priorities. Unfortunately, many consumers aren’t aware of what’s missing until it’s too late. Here are seven key safety features that quietly disappeared from vehicles this year—and why you should double-check before driving off the lot.
1. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert Systems
Rear cross-traffic alert helps drivers detect vehicles or objects approaching from the side while backing up. It’s a lifesaver in crowded parking lots and driveways with limited visibility. But several manufacturers have recently removed this feature from base trims or offered it only in expensive upgrade packages. Without it, reversing becomes significantly riskier, especially in SUVs and trucks with larger blind spots. Drivers may not notice until a near-miss—or worse—occurs.
2. Front Parking Sensors
Front sensors used to be standard on mid-level trims, offering crucial assistance for tight parking situations. Now, more brands are quietly dropping them or reserving them for premium models only. This move may save automakers money, but it shifts the burden—and risk—back onto drivers. Bumping into curbs, poles, or even pedestrians is easier than people think, especially with larger front-end designs. If your new car lacks this subtle helper, you’ll need to be extra cautious.
3. Physical Blind Spot Mirrors
Blind spot monitoring systems are helpful, but many drivers still rely on simple convex blind spot mirrors integrated into side mirrors. Shockingly, some automakers have removed them completely without offering any substitute unless you pay for high-end tech packages. That means you could have fewer tools to spot motorcycles or small vehicles creeping into adjacent lanes. Without either digital or manual support, lane changes become riskier. This is one of the most frustrating removed car safety features of the year.
4. Automatic Emergency Braking on Entry Models
Automatic emergency braking (AEB) can prevent rear-end collisions by detecting obstacles and applying the brakes. Although it was once a point of pride for many automakers, some base models now exclude it entirely. This is often buried in the fine print or removed after initial press announcements. Drivers may assume it’s still included and unknowingly take on greater risk. Always verify AEB availability before you finalize your purchase, especially if you’re opting for an entry-level trim.
5. Full-Size Spare Tires
While not a flashy safety feature, a full-size spare tire can make a big difference during a roadside emergency. Unfortunately, many new cars now ship with only a tire repair kit or compact “donut” spares to reduce weight and costs. This cost-cutting move limits your ability to drive safely after a blowout, especially in rural areas. If you drive long distances or live far from repair shops, this is more than an inconvenience—it’s a potential safety hazard. Don’t assume your trunk holds a real spare; check before you need it.
6. Manual Override for Power Windows and Doors
More vehicles are ditching manual window cranks and key-access door locks, going fully electric instead. This modern look has one major flaw—if the battery dies or the electrical system fails, you could be trapped. In emergency situations, such as floods or accidents, losing manual access is a serious safety issue. This quiet design shift is rarely mentioned in brochures but can have deadly consequences. It’s one of the most overlooked, removed car safety features that deserves more attention.
7. Dedicated Physical Emergency Brake Levers
Traditional hand-operated emergency brakes are being replaced by electronic parking brakes in many newer models. While sleek and space-saving, electronic parking brakes rely on functioning software and power systems. If those fail, you may have no way to manually stop your car on a slope or in an emergency. Some drivers also find it harder to “feel” the braking force compared to pulling a physical lever. This trend has removed a layer of control that once gave drivers peace of mind.
Know What You’re Losing Before You Drive Away
Car buyers today are focused on technology, fuel economy, and sleek designs—but what’s quietly disappearing under the hood (or dashboard) matters even more. These removed car safety features may seem small at first, but they can have major consequences in the event of an emergency. Automakers won’t always announce these cuts clearly, so it’s up to you to ask the right questions. Before signing on the dotted line, make sure your car protects you in every situation, not just the ones advertised.
Have you noticed a safety feature missing from your new vehicle? Share your experience in the comments and help other drivers stay informed.
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