Most Drivers Don’t Realize They Have These 8 Useful Features in Their Cars
The latest cars to hit the market are packed with technology. There are so many useful features in vehicles today that many people don’t even realize half the stuff their car can do. This means you’re not taking full advantage of all the built-in features your car has to offer. Some of them are hidden, while others are just overlooked entirely. So, here’s a look at eight features that you may not have known about.
1. Hidden Fuel Indicator Arrow
Ever pulled up to a gas station and forgotten which side your fuel cap is on? Most cars have a tiny fuel pump icon on the dashboard with an arrow next to it. That arrow points to the side of the car where the fuel cap is located. It’s a simple feature, but it saves you from awkwardly pulling up to the wrong side. Many drivers overlook this, especially when driving rental or new cars.
2. Auto Hold Brake Feature
Stop-and-go traffic can be exhausting, but many cars come with an Auto Hold function that makes it easier. This feature keeps your car stationary without needing to keep your foot on the brake pedal. Once activated, the system automatically holds the brake when you stop at a light or in traffic. When you press the accelerator, the brakes release seamlessly. It reduces foot fatigue and makes city driving much more comfortable.
3. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
Backing out of a parking space can be stressful, especially in crowded areas. Rear Cross-Traffic Alert uses sensors to detect approaching vehicles or pedestrians from either side. If something is in your path, the system warns you with visual and audible alerts. This feature is particularly helpful in busy parking lots where visibility is limited. Many drivers don’t realize they have it because it only activates when needed.
4. Window Control via Key Fob
Your key fob does more than just lock and unlock your doors. Many cars allow you to roll the windows up or down remotely by holding down a button. This is great for quickly cooling down your car on hot days before getting inside. It can also help if you accidentally leave a window open and need to close it from a distance. Not all car manuals highlight this feature, so many drivers never realize it exists.
5. Adjustable Speed Volume Control
Ever notice that your car’s music volume changes as you speed up or slow down? That’s speed-sensitive volume control, a feature designed to adjust the sound level automatically. It compensates for road noise by increasing volume at higher speeds and lowering it when you slow down. This ensures you always hear your music clearly without constant manual adjustments. Many drivers are unaware of this setting, but it’s often customizable in the audio menu.
6. Sun Visor Extender
Sun glare can be annoying, but your car likely has a built-in fix. Many sun visors slide or extend to cover more of the windshield or side window. This is especially useful when the sun is at an awkward angle, like early morning or late afternoon. Most drivers don’t realize their visors do this and struggle with blinding sunlight. The feature is simple yet effective in improving visibility and safety.
7. Emergency Trunk Release
If you ever get locked in your trunk—or need to help someone escape—it’s good to know about the emergency trunk release. Most modern cars come with a glow-in-the-dark handle inside the trunk. This safety feature allows a person to open the trunk from the inside in case of an emergency. It’s particularly important for children or pets who might get accidentally trapped. Many drivers don’t realize this feature exists until they need it.
8. Heated Side Mirrors
Heated seats are a well-known luxury, but did you know many cars have heated side mirrors? This feature is perfect for cold mornings when frost, ice, or fog blocks your view. When activated, small heating elements in the mirrors quickly clear away moisture and ice. In most vehicles, this function turns on with the rear defroster button. Many drivers never use it because they don’t realize their mirrors have built-in heating.
Unlock Your Car’s Hidden Potential
Believe it or not, your car probably has more features than you know. Many of the things mentioned here are built into almost every car and they go unnoticed by most drivers. Taking the time to get to know your vehicle and understanding how to use some of these features will enhance your overall driving experience.
Did you find out about any features you’d previously overlooked?
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