Video: How IIHS Preps for Crash Tests

A lot goes into preparing a vehicle before it’s sent hurtling toward a barrier in an IIHS crash test. A new web video takes viewers through the complex process.

"Inside IIHS: Preparing for a crash test" shows how technicians at the IIHS Vehicle Research Center attend to every detail to ensure a smooth crash test with results that can be easily measured and compared with other vehicles. Everything from the exact position of the seats to the angles of in-vehicle cameras and lights must be adjusted. Engineers drain fluids from the car and replace gasoline with a purple-dyed solvent to detect leaks.

Previous installments in the video series have focused on different types of crash tests, crash test dummies, the propulsion system used to power the tests and IIHS’ booster seat rating program.

Here's the video: