Words: AutoTrader NZ
Published 5 March 2026
Most of us drive every day, yet there are small details about our cars that often go unnoticed. Some of these features are clever design touches, while others can actually save you money or help prevent unnecessary wear and tear.
Here are some practical car facts many drivers don’t realise.
1. The Fuel Gauge Arrow Has a Purpose
Next time you glance at your dashboard, look closely at the fuel gauge. Most vehicles have a small arrow next to the fuel pump icon.
That arrow shows which side of the car the fuel cap is on – handy when you’re driving a rental car or switching between vehicles.
2. Low Tyre Pressure Can Cost You More
Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance, meaning your engine has to work harder.
The result:
- Higher fuel consumption
- Faster tyre wear
- Reduced handling and safety
👉🏼 Checking tyre pressure regularly can help improve fuel efficiency and extend tyre life.
3. Your Key Fob Probably Has a Hidden Key
Many modern key fobs contain a physical backup key hidden inside.
If your key fob battery dies, you can still unlock the car manually. It’s a simple feature that can save you a lot of frustration.
4. Windows Down Can Increase Fuel Use at Highway Speeds
At lower speeds, opening windows instead of using air conditioning can help save fuel.
However, at highway speeds open windows create aerodynamic drag, which can increase fuel consumption. In many cases, using the AC is actually more efficient.
5. Smooth Driving Uses Less Fuel
Rapid acceleration requires more fuel to power the engine.
Driving smoothly and maintaining steady speeds is generally more fuel-efficient than frequent hard acceleration and braking. If your vehicle has cruise control, using it on open roads or motorway can also help maintain a consistent speed and improve fuel efficiency.
6. Cars That Sit Unused Often Have Battery Problems
Vehicle batteries slowly discharge even when the car isn’t being used.
Cars that sit unused for long periods are more likely to experience flat batteries compared to vehicles driven regularly.
7. Holding the Steering Wheel at Full Lock Causes Extra Wear
When your steering wheel is turned fully to one side, the steering system is under maximum pressure.
Holding it there for extended periods can increase wear on the power steering components.
8. That Small Tab on Your Rearview Mirror Reduces Glare
The little lever under your rearview mirror switches it into night or anti-glare mode.
This reduces the brightness of headlights behind you and helps improve visibility when driving at night.
9. Indicator Sounds Are Often Digital
In many modern cars, the clicking sound of the indicator isn’t mechanical anymore.
It’s actually a digitally engineered sound designed to match the brand’s driving experience.
10. Turning Off AC Can Help When Climbing Hills
Air conditioning systems draw power from the engine.
When driving up steep hills, turning off the AC can slightly reduce engine load and give the vehicle a little more available power, particularly in cars with smaller engines where the extra load from the air conditioning system can be more noticeable.
11. Those Black Dots Around Your Windscreen Have a Purpose
The small black dots around the edge of your windscreen aren’t just decorative.
They help distribute heat during the manufacturing process and protect the adhesive that holds the glass in place from UV damage.
Bottom Line
Cars are full of small design details and clever engineering that many drivers never notice. Understanding these little features can help improve efficiency, reduce wear, and make everyday driving easier.
👉🏼 A little knowledge about your car can go a long way.
