Modern cars are packed with features designed to make driving easier, safer, and more enjoyable. But here’s the thing. Many of these features go unnoticed or unused because most people don’t even realize they exist.
Let’s take a look at these underrated features and how they can make your life easier.
Hidden Fuel Arrow
Ever pull into a gas station and forget which side the fuel tank is on? Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us. What most people don’t realize is that most cars have a tiny arrow near the fuel gauge on the dashboard. That little arrow points to the side of the car where the gas cap is located. It’s such a small detail, but once you notice it, you’ll never have to guess again.
Next time you’re at the pump, take a look, you might be surprised it’s been there all along.
Automatic Emergency Braking
Not all drivers realize their car might be equipped with automatic emergency braking (AEB). This safety feature can detect obstacles in your path and apply the brakes if you don’t react in time. It’s designed to help prevent collisions or reduce the impact if one is unavoidable. While it’s not a substitute for staying alert, it can be a lifesaver in unexpected situations.
If your car has this feature, check how it works in the manual so you can feel confident knowing it’s there when you need it most.
Adaptive Cruise Control
Cruise control is a favorite for long highway drives, but adaptive cruise control takes it to the next level. This feature automatically adjusts your speed to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you. It’s perfect for dealing with traffic without constantly tapping the brakes or resetting your speed.
Heated Side Mirrors
Frosty mornings can be a hassle, especially when your side mirrors are covered in ice or fog. Heated side mirrors are a simple but effective solution. Many cars come with this feature, but it’s easy to miss since it’s often activated alongside the rear defroster. Within minutes, your mirrors will be clear and ready to use, no scraping required.
Lane Keep Assist
Staying centered in your lane can be challenging on long drives, especially when fatigue sets in. Lane keep assist helps by gently steering your car back into place if you start to drift. It’s a subtle feature that works in the background, making your drive safer without being intrusive. There are lots of drivers that don’t realize their car has this capability, but it’s worth exploring.
Look for a button or setting related to lane assistance to see if it’s available in your vehicle. Once you get used to it, it’s a game-changer for highway driving.
Keyless Entry Trick
Keyless entry isn’t just about unlocking your car with the push of a button. Many modern key fobs have hidden features, like rolling down all the windows or opening the trunk remotely. It’s the kind of thing you won’t know about unless you read the manual or experiment with the buttons. These tricks are especially handy on hot days when you want to let some air into the car before getting in.
Auto-Hold Brake
If you’ve ever been stuck at a long red light or in stop-and-go traffic, you know how tiring it can be to keep your foot on the brake. The auto-hold brake feature takes care of this for you. Once activated, it keeps the car stationary even after you release the brake pedal.
As soon as you press the gas, the system releases the brakes automatically. It’s a small convenience that can make a big difference during daily commutes.
Rain-Sensing Wipers
Manually adjusting windshield wipers in unpredictable weather can be a hassle, but rain-sensing wipers take care of it for you. Using sensors that detect moisture on the windshield, this feature automatically adjusts the wiper speed based on how hard it’s raining.
Many drivers don’t realize their car has this feature, so it’s worth checking the manual or experimenting with your wiper settings. Once you try it, you’ll appreciate not having to fiddle with wiper controls mid-drive.
Memory Seat Settings
Constantly readjusting your seat after someone else drives your car can be frustrating. Memory seat settings solve this problem by letting you save your preferred seat and mirror positions. Some cars with power-adjustable seats include this feature, but it’s easy to overlook.
Usually, there’s a button labeled with numbers, each one corresponds to a saved position. It’s perfect for households where multiple people share a car.
Blind Spot Monitoring
It can be trickly when changing lanes, especially in heavy traffic or on busy highways. Blind spot monitoring is there to make it easier. This system uses sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spots and alerts you with a light on your side mirrors or a beep.
It’s not meant to replace checking over your shoulder, but it’s an extra layer of safety that can help prevent accidents.
Remote Start
Another feature is being able to start your car from a distance and this is incredibly useful in extreme weather. Whether it’s warming up the engine on a freezing morning or cooling down the interior on a hot day, remote start makes getting into your car more comfortable.
Traffic Sign Recognition
This feature is a lifesaver if you miss a posted speed limit or want to double-check other important signs. While it’s not available in every car, it’s becoming increasingly common in newer models. If your car has this capability, it’s worth exploring how it works, it’s like having an extra set of eyes on the road.
Steering Wheel Warmers
Cold mornings are tough, but a heated steering wheel can make them a little more bearable. This feature warms up the wheel in minutes, so you don’t have to deal with freezing hands while you drive. It’s often found in higher-end vehicles or as part of a winter package, but many drivers forget to use it or don’t know they have it.
Usually, there’s a button near the climate controls or on the steering wheel itself. If you’ve got it, turn it on the next time temperatures drop—you’ll thank yourself later.
Adjustable Ambient Lighting
Let’s face it, customizing the interior mood of your car isn’t just for show, it can also make driving more enjoyable. Adjustable ambient lighting lets you change the colors and intensity of lights inside your car, usually around the dashboard, cupholders, or doors. It’s a fun way to personalize your ride, especially for night drives.
Wireless Charging Pads
Ever tried dealing with tangled cords while trying to charge your phone? It’s a pain. However, wireless charging pads solve that problem. Many newer cars come equipped with a built-in pad where you can simply place your phone to charge. It’s convenient and helps keep your car’s interior tidy.
Hill Start Assist
Starting your car on a hill can be nerve-wracking, especially if you’re worried about rolling backward. Hill start assist makes it easier by temporarily holding the brakes when you release the pedal, giving you time to press the gas. It’s a feature that works quietly in the background, but it can make a big difference in hilly areas.
Rear Cross-Traffic Alert
And finally, backing out of parking spaces or driveways can feel risky when visibility is limited. Rear cross-traffic alert uses sensors to detect approaching vehicles from the sides and warns you with sounds or visual cues. It’s especially helpful in crowded parking lots or busy streets.
While this feature isn’t available in every car, it’s becoming more common in newer models. If your car has it, you’ll find it makes reversing much safer and less stressful. It’s like having an extra set of eyes where you need them most.