We spend countless hours in our vehicles, whether we shuttle children to lacrosse practice or navigate the rush-hour commute. You likely chose your car for its style and comfort, but a few buttons and levers probably still baffle you. You might even ignore them completely.
Knowing how to use these features can transform your daily drive from stressful to smooth. Here are five car features you might be using wrong and how to get the most out of your ride.
The Recirculation Button
You hop into a sweltering car on a humid July day and immediately blast the AC with the recirculation button pressed. This traps the hot air inside the cabin. Your system works harder to cool down that stagnant heat. Instead, roll the windows down for the first minute.
Let the hot air escape. Once the fresh air has circulated, roll them up and press the recirculation button. This cools the cabin faster and reduces strain on the AC compressor.
The Parking Brake
Most drivers use the emergency brake only when parking on a steep hill, but this habit can damage the transmission. When you park on a flat surface and only use the “P” gear, a small metal pin called a parking pawl supports your vehicle’s entire weight.
This pin can easily snap under pressure. Engaging the parking brake every time you park takes the load off the transmission and is a good habit to adopt, especially if you tend to be a bit of a lead-foot.
The Sun Visor
The sun hits you from the side window, so you unhook the visor and swing it to the left. But the light still blinds you. You squirm in your seat to find a shadow. Most modern visors slide out or extend to cover the entire length of the side window.
Check yours next time the glare hits. Pull the visor toward the back of the car after you unhook it. You will find those few extra inches of shade you desperately need.
The Rearview Mirror Tab
Night driving is frustrating for many of us because of blinding headlights from the SUV behind us. You might squint or adjust your side mirrors to escape the glare. Look for the small tab at the bottom of your rearview mirror. Flip it.
This activates “night mode,” which dims the reflection behind you while keeping you clearly visible. While many newer cars do this automatically, manual toggles remain standard in many models. Using this tab reduces eye strain instantly.
The Steering Wheel Lever
Most drivers set their steering wheel once and then forget about it, often prioritizing a clear view of the dashboard over comfort. But understanding how the steering column works is key to a better driving experience.
A small lever located under the column unlocks the wheel, letting you adjust it up or down. In many cars, you can also telescope it closer or further away. Finding the optimal steering wheel position helps your arms rest comfortably, reducing shoulder fatigue, especially on long drives.
Drive Smarter Every Day
Your vehicle is more than just a means of getting from A to B. Making these small adjustments will protect your car and keep you safer on the road. Take a moment to check these car features you might be using incorrectly before your next trip. You paid for these features to get the most out of them.
