When you are sitting in a car you see the obvious; the mirrors, the buttons and perhaps a touchscreen. The not so obvious is the silent technology working under the hood. These often go unnoticed, despite their ability to enhance the driving experience and safety, while a little knowledge about these will save you a few repair bills.
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Driver attention system
You may not have noticed this but your car is looking out for you. Tiny sensors or cameras monitor where you are looking and how much your head is moving. When it detects you’re losing focus or getting sleepy it buzzes gently to indicate you should stop and rest. It is designed only to be used for those long exhausting journeys and to remain quiet except when necessary.
Self-cancelling turn signals
Sometimes it’s easy to forget that your car works hard to make your life easier. How about those self-canceling turn signals? That’s an automatic canceling mechanism integrated into the steering wheel assembly. After you’ve finished turning and the steering wheel is back in line, it cuts the blinker off for you. It’s a minor convenience, but it prevents a lot of blinking lights on the street.
Rear seat reminder
Many newer vehicles are now equipped with a “rear seat reminder” that most owners don’t even know about. It monitors whether a rear door has been opened prior to departure. When parked and shut off, the system triggers a gentle chime or message reminding the driver to check the rear seat. Some systems even use interior movement sensors. It’s a small safety feature that can help prevent tragedies from children or pets being left in hot cars.
Easy-fill tire alert
Hard to see, but a lot of Nissan models have this clever thing called the easy-fill tire alert. No more peering at the gauge, just start pumping away. The hazard lights blink while it fills, and a short honk from the horn signals you’re at the proper pressure. Pump a little over, and it’ll alert you to that too.
Dead pedal
Beside your brake/clutch, you might notice a little platform for your left foot to rest on. That’s called a dead pedal. It helps stabilize your body and provides support when you need it most, like during long drives or sharp turns.
Conversation mirror and cabin talk
If you drive a van or a large SUV, look up. There may be a small mirror stored in the ceiling. It folds down to allow you to see what is happening in the back seats. Some vehicles also include “Cabin Talk”, an integrated intercom system that broadcasts your voice through the speakers. It allows everyone to stay in touch without shouting or craning your neck.
Rear seat-belt warnings
You’re likely aware of the front seat-belt warning light. However, did you know your car could also be checking to see who’s sitting in the back? Newer models use sensors to detect if a person is sitting in the back without their seat belt on. A warning light will illuminate to alert them. It’s already being made mandatory in the U.S. for newer model cars.
Automatic high beams
Driving at night isn’t as difficult as it seems. More and more cars are equipped with automatic high beams. They toggle between bright and dim automatically. Sensors detect oncoming traffic, then toggle instantly so you don’t dazzle other drivers. It’s a useful feature, but many owners never take the time to use it.
Speed alert setting
You know how you speed without realizing? If so, this car feature was made for you. It monitors local speed limits, and if you exceed it, the car will quietly warn you. It doesn’t do anything to the car, just tells you to back off. It’s often hidden in the dash menu, and a lot of owners aren’t even aware it’s there.
Head-up display (HUD)
Some cars will project your speed or navigation onto the windshield. Called the Head-up display, it is a small projected image designed to allow you to keep your eyes properly placed on the road. Adjustments are typically available to allow you to change the height or brightness of the display. It’s one of those features most people never use, but once you use it, you never want to drive without it.
Speed-sensing door locks
You may not give it much thought, but doors that automatically lock when the car starts moving are a safety feature. They are known as speed-sensing locks. They help keep passengers, particularly curious children, safe from opening the door without realizing the car is in motion.
Sources: Please see here for a complete listing of all sources that were consulted in the preparation of this article.
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