Carmakers love to dazzle us with the latest tech, but not every fancy feature is actually useful. Some useless car features are flashy gimmicks—not practical upgrades—and they can even get in the way of safe driving. This matters because you’re paying extra for things you’ll rarely—or never—use. We’re breaking down seven common gimmicks that are more annoyance than asset. Read on to avoid buying into style over substance.
1. Giant Touchscreens
Automakers are equipping cars with massive infotainment screens that dominate the dash, but more size doesn’t mean more usability. According to Jalopnik readers, “giant screens … piss you off,” and offer little beyond a backup camera. These screens distract drivers more and lack the tactile feedback of buttons. As a result, simple tasks like volume control become clumsy. If convenience matters, opt for models that keep screens in check and preserve physical controls.
2. Fake Engine Noises and Fake Gears
Many modern cars simulate engine sounds or artificial gear shifts to replicate a sporty feel, but it often ruins the experience. Jalopnik users call them “fake gears” in CVTs that hurt performance. Others decry synthetic engine sounds generated through speakers under the guise of “excitement.” If your car is already responsive, you don’t need these manufactured effects. In fact, they can detract from driving authenticity.
3. Gesture Controls
Some luxury vehicles let you wave at the air to change songs or adjust settings, but users say it rarely works reliably. BMW’s gesture control, for instance, scored highest on issues in J.D. Power’s study—41 problems per 100 vehicles. It’s distracting, forces your hand off the wheel, and wastes time trying to get it to recognize your gesture. When buttons work just fine, why root around for gestures? Stick with steering-wheel or tactile controls instead.
4. Passenger Screens
Front-seat passenger entertainment screens seem fun, but data shows they’re rarely used or valued. Only about 10% of drivers ride daily with front-seat companions, making the option largely irrelevant. These screens often halve the infotainment resolution and add distraction. Unless you frequently travel with a co-driver, it’s more cost than convenience. Better to keep things simple—and save on price and distraction.
5. Camera-Based Side Mirrors
Some newer models ditch physical mirrors in favor of camera systems, claiming better aerodynamics, but these can fog up or get splashed, and drivers often miss the reliability of traditional glass. They also struggle in heavy rain, snow, or glare. Physical mirrors remain dependable, intuitive, and easy to clean. Before choosing camera-only mirrors, ask: What happens if it fails mid-drive? Sometimes old-school solutions endure for a reason.
6. Social Media Integration
Built-in apps like Facebook, Twitter, or Angel Bird on car infotainment may seem cool, but most drivers don’t use them, and they distract from the road. Studies from Popular Science revealed that over 60% of owners never used their in-car marketplace apps, many of which offer similar services. If you need social features, your phone has them already. The added software just adds complexity—or creates liabilities.
7. Rain-Sensing Wipers
Rain-sensing wipers seem high-tech, but they often don’t perform as well as your own eyes—and they cost extra. SlashGear notes: These sensors frequently react too slowly or too quickly and don’t adjust well to varying conditions. Manual wipers give precise control, especially in intermittent drizzles or heavy downpours. Are they convenient? Maybe slightly, but at the cost of performance and reliability.
Why Real Drivers Prefer Simple over Showy
These useless car features often add cost, complexity, and distraction without delivering tangible value. Real driving comfort comes from dependable functionality, not gimmicks. Before splurging on add-ons, ask yourself: Is this convenience or a compromise? Opting for reliable features, tactile controls, and classic design choices gives you safety, simplicity, and sanity.
Which of these gimmicks did you laugh at—or regret buying? Tell us your most useless car feature experience in the comments!
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The post These 7 Cars Include Features That Are More Gimmick Than Useful appeared first on Clever Dude Personal Finance & Money.