Modern vehicles are jam-packed with all kinds of technology, but most people aren’t using it to its fullest. In fact, a lot of the features go completely unnoticed by drivers. I mean, think about it, how many of the bells and whistles on your car do you use? Most people stick to the basics, which include ignition, radio, AC, and maybe their cruise control on a long trip. That said, these six car features aren’t used by almost anybody.
1. Auto Hold
Auto Hold is one of those unused car features that sounds boring until you try it. It keeps your car stationary at a stoplight without needing to keep your foot on the brake. Once you tap the gas, it automatically releases, which means no more foot cramps in traffic. Despite its convenience, many drivers don’t even realize their car has it, or they forget to activate it. It’s especially helpful in hilly areas or during long commutes with frequent stops.
2. Rear Window Sunshades
Some sedans and SUVs come with retractable rear window sunshades, either manual or powered. These are perfect for keeping passengers cool and protecting interior materials from sun damage. Parents with young kids especially benefit from this feature, yet many never pull them up. Often hidden in the door panels or rear deck, they’re easy to miss unless you’re specifically looking. If you’ve got them, it’s time to put them to good use. Your passengers (and your upholstery) will thank you.
3. Adjustable Headrests
Headrests aren’t just for comfort. They’re a key safety feature. Many drivers never adjust them, leaving them too low or too far back to be effective in a crash. A properly positioned headrest can reduce the risk of whiplash injuries during rear-end collisions. Most modern vehicles allow for vertical and sometimes even forward-backward adjustments. Taking a few seconds to align your headrest with the top of your ears could make a big difference in an accident.
4. Rain-Sensing Wipers
This is one of my wife’s favorite features in her car, but surprisingly, many people don’t use it. Rain-sensing wipers are designed to automatically activate when moisture hits your windshield. They adjust speed based on how heavy the rain is, freeing you from constantly fiddling with the wiper stalk. But many drivers either don’t trust the system or forget to enable it. As a result, they end up manually adjusting wiper speeds during every drizzle or downpour. If your car has this feature, give it a shot.
5. Voice Commands
Most newer vehicles come with voice command systems that let you control navigation, music, and even climate settings. But many drivers still fumble with touchscreens or knobs, not realizing they can just say, “Call Mom” or “Navigate to the nearest gas station.” Part of the problem is that voice systems used to be clunky and inaccurate, but recent improvements have made them much more reliable. Using voice commands can reduce distractions and keep your hands on the wheel. It’s a smart way to stay safe and efficient behind the wheel.
6. Tire Fill Assist
Tire Fill Assist is a game-changer for anyone who dreads checking tire pressure. When you’re adding air, the system beeps or flashes the lights to let you know when you’ve reached the correct PSI. It eliminates the need to constantly check the gauge or risk overinflating. Despite its usefulness, many drivers don’t realize their car has this feature or how to activate it. If you’ve ever struggled at a gas station air pump, this is one of those unused car features worth exploring.
Don’t Let Features Go to Waste
Car manufacturers spend millions developing features to make driving safer, easier, and more comfortable, but they only help if you use them. Many unused car features are hidden in plain sight, waiting to make your daily drive smoother. Taking a few minutes to explore your owner’s manual or vehicle settings could unlock tools you didn’t even know you had. Whether it’s saving your legs in traffic or keeping your kids cool in the backseat, these features are more than just gimmicks.
Which car feature have you discovered recently that made your life easier, or left you wondering why it even exists? Share your thoughts in the comments!
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