Have you ever done a good long look at what all your car offers? Like pretty much everyone, you are using the bare minimum: the ignition, gear shift, radio (and possibly then the cruise control). The cars nowadays, however, are much more technologically burdened and comfortable than you can imagine. Others are covered up so deep that you may have been driving your car all the years and did not even know they existed.
Here, we will show you seven car secrets most people don’t know about and how you can put them to use today. Do you want some convenience and safety on the road or to invest more in this experience? Wherever your interests lie, the guide is meant to show you the way.
Keyless Entry and Start
What It Is
Keyless entry and keyless start allow you to unlock and start your car with the key fob still in your pocket or purse. Proximity is everything — when you get close enough, your car snags the signal.
How It Works
It is the radio signals from your key fob that cause the car to recognize it. You give it a tap on the door handle, or you press a button to release the lock. Once inside, place your foot on the brake and push the Start button.
How to Use It
- Just keep the key fob with you (in your pocket or purse or even in your backpack).
- Locking and unlocking: Press the sensor area of the driver’s door handle.
- Beginning with the basics: Step on the brake + press the Engine Start/Stop button.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If that doesn’t work, see if the key fob battery is low.
- Don’t keep the fob near metal objects – its signal can be obstructed.
Adaptive Cruise Control
What It Is
Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) acts like regular cruise control in coordinating the car’s speed but is even smarter. It uses your speed and the distance to the front car to adjust that speed.
Why It’s Better Than Standard Cruise Control
Instead of just cruising at one speed, ACC slows when traffic does and speeds back up when things open up, kind of like having a useful co-pilot.
How to Use It
- ACC is activated by pressing the cruise control button.
- Set your desired speed.
- Change your following distance (often with steering wheel controls).
- Let acceleration and braking be taken care of by the system.
Safety Tip
Stay alert! ACC helps, but it is not a substitute for active driving. Hands-on the wheel, eyes on the road.
Blind Spot Monitoring
What It Is
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) will alert you if a vehicle is in your blind spot, helping make changing lanes safer.
How It Works
Your car’s sensors keep an eye on the blind spots. If a vehicle is detected, a warning light illuminates — usually on the side mirrors. Some cars beep if you start to signal to change lanes.
How to Use It
- Turn it on in your car’s Driver Assist menu.
- Find the icon or light near the side mirrors.
- If the light blinks or you hear a beep, do not change lanes!
Limitations
- May not see fast-approaching motorcycles or extremely small vehicles.
- It is not a substitute for mirrors and head turns.
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
What It Is
Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) is designed to either avoid a crash or mitigate the consequences. If your car detects you are seconds away from crashing and you do nothing, it jams on the brakes for you.
How It Works
AEB relies on cameras, sensors, or radar to sense obstructions. If it senses impending danger and you don’t apply the brakes, it will do so for you.
How to Activate
- It’s usually enabled by default.
- Just check in your settings under Safety or Collision Assist.
- If there’s no toggle, it’s already on.
Real-World Example
A distracted driver fails to see a stopped car just ahead. The vehicle is brought to a halt, and the AEB system saves a collision.
Lane Keeping Assist
What It Is
Lane Keeping Assist (LKA) helps prevent you from drifting. It’s helpful for long drives or when you are tired.
How It Works
Lane markings are read by a camera positioned on the front of the vehicle. Should your car stray, it nudges the steering wheel lightly to direct you back.
How to Use It
- Flip the dashboard or settings menu switch on.
- Ensure lane lines are visible.
- Hands on the wheel — it only assists, not drives for you.
When It Might Not Work
- When the weather is bad (rain, fog, snow).
- If lane lines are faded or missing.
- In construction zones.
Remote Start
What It Is
You can start the engine from a distance with the Remote Start feature; use the key fob or a mobile app to do this. Perfect for warming up or cooling down your vehicle.
Why Use It
You can preheat or pre-cool the cabin — it is pleasant when you jump in.
How to Use It
- From a key fob: Push the lock button and then hold down the remote start button.
- If you have a brand app: Use your brand’s app (FordPass, myChevrolet, etc.).
- Make sure the car is locked and the parking brake is secured.
Safety Note
- Never use a remote start in a garage or enclosed space.
- Know your state’s idling laws. Look up local ordinances.
Hidden Storage Compartments
What It Is
Your car could have secret compartments you didn’t even realize you had.
Where to Look
- Under seats: Some seats lift up or slide to provide storage.
- Inside armrests: Look for trays that can cover a deep storage bin.
- Beneath the trunk floor: Besides the spare tire or tools.
Tips to Use Them Smartly
- Keep emergency equipment or valuables from flying away (flashlight, fix-a-flat, etc.).
- Keep it orderly so you remember what is where.
Conclusion
Most drivers barely begin to tap the potential of their cars. These seven ways to upgrade your ride — from blind spot monitors to remote start — cannot only make you comfortable and safe, but they can make driving a pleasure.
The better you know what’s built into your car (or whatever you drive), the more control you have over it — not to mention that you save time, money, and costly repairs if you don’t have to take it in somewhere.
Go ahead—explore your Premier Luxury car today. Hint: You may be shocked at what’s right before you.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)
Q1. What is keyless entry, and how do I know if my car is equipped with it?
A1: Keyless entry allows you to unlock your car without having to insert a physical key. If your door handle has a little sensor or your fob unlocks the door when you get closer to it, you probably have it.
Q2. Is adaptive cruise control safe in traffic?
A2: Adaptive cruise control is designed to provide space in traffic. You’ll still need to stay alert to take over at any time.
Q3. Is blind spot detection effective at night?
A3: Absolutely. Most of the systems depend on radar sensors as much as cameras, so they are at least as effective in darkness.
Q4. How can I tell if my car has automatic emergency braking?
A4: Refer to your settings menu and look under “Driver Assistance” or “Collision Prevention.” You can also consult your manual or run your VIN through a lookup tool.
Q5. If my car did not come with a remote start, can it be added?
A5: Yes, you can buy a remote start system as an add-on. But it’s best to have it installed by professionals who can avoid messing with your car’s electronics or warranty.
