There's no doubt about it. Cars are much safer than they were when the federal government started its crash test program nearly 30 years ago.

Here's the problem: the government's rating system has become a victim of its own success. Almost every vehicle gets good marks. So the testing program had to be changed.

Today's cars are safer than ever, and the government's crash tests get much of the credit. But the system is old and in need of repair.

Gillis is an auto expert who writes The Car Book each year. I spoke to him at his office in Washington, D.C.

"The five-star system is of little value to consumers today. So unless the government revamps it's a waste of money," he said.

Gillis said right now, the system is so watered down that virtually every single car gets five stars.

"So you and I can't really tell the good ones from the bad ones," he said.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration just unveiled a new testing program.

"We wanted to make sure that having a four- or five-star ratings really has meaning, that consumers know they're getting top safety in those vehicles," said Nicole Nason, NHTSA administrator.

The new program includes a new front-end test and pole test that simulates a crash into a tree.

There's one more important change. Right now, only male dummies ride in crash vehicles. The nest test program will also incorporate female dummies.

"For thirty years, the government has run crash tests based on where the average male sits in the car," Nason said. "Well, I don't sit where my husband sits. I pull the seat up much closer to the steering wheel.

"And that can make a difference for example in how big your airbag is. So we've told the manufacturers if you want to get that higher score, you need to test with female dummies also."

The new crash tests will start with the 2010 model year. The sticker on those vehicles will give you an overall rating from one to five stars, which combines the scores from the front, side and rollover tests.

That should make it easier to compare vehicles. You can get ratings for specific tests on the government's Web site.

Because the tests will be tougher, you'll probably see fewer five-star vehicles. And that's the whole idea -- to separate the good from the really good cars, trucks and SUV.

Consumer groups give the government credit for tweaking its five-star rating system, but criticize it for not being tough enough.

Remember, to get a safe car, you need to do your homework. Don't rely on just one test, even the new government test. You want to see how different vehicles do in several crash tests.

Make sure the vehicle you buy has the latest safety equipment. Side air bags are still optional on some models. Electronic stability control - one of the most important safety features you can get - won't be required on all vehicles until 2012.