Modern cars are packed with features that often go unnoticed. Uncovering these hidden gems can enhance your driving experience and add convenience to your daily life. Here are eight hidden car features you might not know about.
1) Secret Sun Visor Extension
Many cars come equipped with a secret sun visor extension that can make a significant difference on sunny days. This nifty feature is often found on the edge of the sun visor and can be slid out to cover that annoying gap where the sun peeks through. It’s particularly useful during sunrise or sunset, when the sun sits low on the horizon. Make sure to check your car’s visor for this feature next time you’re dealing with a blinding glare.
2) Hidden USB Ports
It’s common to find USB ports in cars for charging devices, but did you know there might be hidden ones? Some vehicles have USB ports tucked away in the center console or glovebox. These hidden USB ports are perfect for keeping your car interior clutter-free and can be used to play media directly to your car’s entertainment system.
3) Steering Wheel Heater
If you’ve ever dreaded touching a freezing cold steering wheel, a steering wheel heater might be your new best friend. This feature is often integrated into the steering column controls, providing instant warmth during cold mornings. Not only does it enhance comfort, but it can also improve safety by ensuring you keep a firm grip on the wheel. Many drivers overlook this feature, but it’s worth checking your vehicle’s manual or settings to see if you have it.
4) Trunk Escape Handle
For safety-conscious drivers, the trunk escape handle is a crucial feature. This glow-in-the-dark handle inside the trunk allows someone to escape in case they are trapped. This safety feature has been mandatory in all cars since 2002, yet many people remain unaware of its existence. It’s a small addition that can make a huge difference in emergency situations, so familiarize yourself with its location and operation in your vehicle.
5) Rear Seat Reminder
An often-overlooked feature is the rear seat reminder, designed to prevent accidentally leaving children or pets in the back seat. When you open a rear door at the start of your journey, the system will remind you to check the back seat once you’ve reached your destination. This thoughtful safety feature can be a lifesaver in summer months, ensuring that nothing important is left behind.
6) Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror
Driving at night can be challenging due to glare from headlights. Thankfully, many cars are equipped with an auto-dimming rearview mirror. This feature uses sensors to detect bright lights and automatically dims to reduce glare, enhancing visibility and comfort. If you experience significant glare during nighttime driving, check if your vehicle has this feature and make sure it’s activated.
7) Adaptive Headlights
Adaptive headlights are a game-changer for nighttime driving. These intelligent lights adjust their direction based on your steering input and speed, illuminating the road ahead more effectively. They enhance visibility around corners and improve safety by ensuring optimal lighting at all times. Not all drivers realize their car has adaptive headlights, so it’s worth exploring your car’s settings or manual to see if this feature is available.
8) Integrated Blind Spot Mirrors
Blind spots can be a major hazard on the road, but many cars come with integrated blind spot mirrors to help minimize this risk. Often located in the corner of your side mirrors, these small, convex mirrors provide a wider field of view. They help you spot vehicles in adjacent lanes that might otherwise go unnoticed. If your car doesn’t have electronic blind spot monitoring, these mirrors offer a reliable alternative to enhance your driving awareness.