Why Your Pickup or Van Might Fail a New Safety Test - and What It Means for Your Car

If you drive a heavy-duty pickup like a Ford Super Duty or Ram HD, you might assume it meets the same safety standards as a passenger car. Until now, federal rules didn’t require it. That’s changing, thanks to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), which just started testing these larger vehicles for basic safety features like seatbelt reminders and airbags.

Here’s the short version: The IIHS tested three heavy-duty pickups and six cargo vans. The Ram 3500, Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter, Chevy Express, and Rivian Delivery 500 all failed the seatbelt reminder test—meaning their warnings weren’t loud or long enough. The Chevy Express also lacked effective seatbelt force limiters.

The Ford F-350 and Chevy Silverado 3500HD passed.

For our customers driving European and Japanese cars—Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Audi, Porsche, VW, Volvo, Jaguar, Lexus, Toyota, and Honda—this doesn’t directly affect you. But it’s a good reminder that safety standards are always evolving. If you own a hybrid or EV from these brands, know that your vehicle already meets the toughest passenger-car safety requirements.

If you have questions about your car’s safety systems—seatbelts, airbags, or advanced driver aids—bring it by Boca Auto Care. We’ll inspect everything and make sure you’re protected. No appointment necessary for a quick check.