Amazing Features in Your Car You Probably Didn’t Know About

Millions, or even billions, of people around the world travel by car daily. However, surprisingly, many of them are unaware of some amazing features hidden within their vehicles. Let’s take a look at some of these intriguing car features and their purposes.

### 1. **Quarter Windows**
One such feature is the **quarter window** or **vent glass**. Although at first glance, it may seem useless as it is fixed in place and cannot be moved, it is actually an important feature. Introduced in the 1950s, these windows were once movable, providing airflow before the advent of air conditioning. Their primary purpose was to help ventilate the car and prevent passengers from feeling too hot.

However, even today, quarter windows still play an essential role. They help drivers maintain better visibility of blind spots, especially around the rear corners of the vehicle. Additionally, the presence of these windows helps the driver to better view side mirrors and makes driving safer.

### 2. **Why Carpets are Installed in Cars**
Cleaning the carpet in a car can be a tough job as it collects dust, dirt, water, food, and all sorts of waste. But have you ever wondered why cars come with carpets in the first place? The primary purpose of the carpet is not just to make the car look good, but to reduce noise inside the cabin. The sounds produced by the car’s lower parts are absorbed by the carpet, preventing nearly 40% of noise from reaching the cabin. Additionally, the carpet helps with insulation, keeping the vehicle warmer during cold weather by retaining heat.

It also acts as a protective layer, preventing rust or other damage to the metal floor if any liquid is spilled inside the car.

### 3. **The Handle Above the Seat**
If you’ve ever traveled in a car, you’ve probably noticed a handle above the passenger seats. Most people assume that it’s meant to hold onto when the car is moving fast, offering stability or a sense of security. However, this isn’t the true purpose of the handle.

In fact, the handle is primarily designed for individuals with physical disabilities. Those using a wheelchair can use the handle to get in or out of the vehicle. Similarly, people with weak legs or those who need extra support during travel can grab the handle to maintain stability and correct posture. The handle essentially helps individuals get in and out of the car more easily.

### 4. **The Arrow on the Fuel Indicator**
On the dashboard of most cars, you’ll notice a fuel light that comes on when the fuel is low, often accompanied by an arrow. Surprisingly, very few people know what that arrow indicates. The arrow points to the side of the car where the fuel tank is located.

You might wonder why such a symbol is needed when most drivers know which side of the car their fuel tank is on. The answer is simple: there are many people who forget or don’t realize which side their tank is on. Additionally, the arrow helps when you are refueling at a gas station, guiding you on which side to park the car for a smoother refueling process.

### 5. **Headrests**
Headrests in cars were first introduced in the 1960s, mainly to protect the neck and head from injury during accidents. The headrest limits the movement of the head in a crash, reducing the risk of neck injuries. But did you know that headrests can be detached and used for emergencies?

In critical situations, such as a car accident, the headrest can be removed and used to break the windows of the car, providing an emergency exit. The metal rods at the bottom of the headrest can be used to shatter the glass, enabling you to escape if the doors are jammed.

### 6. **The Tab on the Rearview Mirror**
Another hidden feature in your car is the tab on your rearview mirror. Many people don’t realize that this small black tab has a significant function. It’s designed to reduce glare from headlights of cars behind you, particularly at night.

When you flip the tab, it activates the “night mode,” which dims the reflection of headlights, making it easier to see the road without being blinded by bright lights. When there’s no bright light from behind, the tab doesn’t serve a purpose, and you simply see your car’s reflection.

### 7. **Black Dots on Car Windows**
Have you ever noticed the black dots on the edges of car windows? These aren’t just for decoration; they serve an important purpose. First introduced in the 1950s and 60s, the black dots (also known as **frits**) were used to cover the adhesive used to bond the glass to the car frame. This helped improve the car’s aesthetics by hiding the glue, which looked unsightly.

These dots are not only for visual appeal; they also help regulate the temperature of the glass. The dots help distribute the heat more evenly, preventing the windows from cracking due to extreme temperature changes. They also protect the windshield from damage caused by direct sunlight, as black areas absorb heat and distribute it more evenly.

### Final Thoughts
Next time you get into your car, take a moment to appreciate the small features that make your ride safer, more comfortable, and more efficient. From quarter windows to headrests, every detail serves a purpose that many of us don’t realize. It’s fascinating how even the most seemingly insignificant features can have a profound impact on the overall experience of driving.