Is Your Car’s Tech Driving You Nuts? Top 3 Car Features Drivers Love to Hate

Rapidly changing car functions
Is it all just convenient?
Three unpopular functions

Changes in technology, including cars and smartphones, are occurring at an increasingly rapid pace. This fast evolution can make people feel desensitized to change and, paradoxically as if they are lagging behind current trends. This is especially true with automobiles; drivers using older models for many years might be unable to start a newer car due to unfamiliar technologies and interfaces.

It would be nice if the only new features that need to be adapted are those that help with convenience and safety, but that is not the reality. We looked at three undesirable functions that even those who fantasized about the latest cars say, “The old days were good.”

Integrated Touchscreens: Physical Buttons Are Desperately Missed

One of the most striking features of cars these days is the expansive touchscreen. The center display screen has grown to a size that is not disappointing, and even the instrument panel, where analog gauges were once taken for granted, is now replaced by a display. Although some consumers welcome these changes, the automobile industry has gone too far without correctly understanding consumer needs. The physical buttons for frequently used functions were removed and integrated into the touch screen.

To control the air conditioner of all Tesla models and many of the latest models, you must go through several complicated steps using the touch screen. The good news is that some manufacturers have begun to bring back physical buttons for frequently used functions, including air conditioning. EURO NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme), a European new car safety evaluation agency, has decided to apply a new regulation mandating the installation of physical control devices for primary functions starting in 2026.

Idle Stop and Go (ISG)
Its Existence Is Annoying

Idle Stop and Go (ISG), commonly called Auto Stop and Go, is also considered a feature most drivers dislike. This function, which briefly turns off the engine in stopped situations such as waiting for a traffic signal and starts it again when starting, saves fuel by at least 2% and up to 10%. This is only a superficial advantage and an explanation from car manufacturers. It is widely accepted that it results from concerns about meeting stricter exhaust gas regulations.

Depending on the driver, the unpleasant shaking may be perceived sensitively when the function is activated, and the engine is turned on and off. While the ISG is running, the air conditioner compressor does not run, so you must face hot air on hot summer days. In most vehicles equipped with ISG, the function is automatically activated when the car is first driven. If you do not want ISG to operate, you must press the deactivation button every time you drive.

Digital Side Mirrors
A Function Not Worth the Option Price

The third is a digital side mirror. Instead of the existing optical mirror, a small camera illuminates the rear and sides and is displayed on displays on both sides of the room. It gives a futuristic appearance and slightly reduces air resistance in proportion to the reduced volume. Unlike the optical type, where raindrops form on rainy days, it provides a clearer rear and side view, and another advantage is that it is visible even at night.

However, it has a fatal drawback because it is difficult to grasp the rear perspective compared to the optical type. Of course, you can get used to it as you drive, but no one knows how often you will change cars. Another problem is that the operation becomes problematic if the camera becomes wet or malfunctions due to a defect or error. There are currently a few new cars with a digital side mirror option, but it isn’t easy to see isn’t with that function on the road.