Confused drivers: Are modern cars too complicated for us?

Confused drivers: Are modern cars too complicated for us?

Werkstatt meines Vertrauens, Deutschland - Modern cars - a technical miracle or a confusing chaos? More and more drivers report "strange driving errors" caused by the complex operation of the vehicles. A look at the instructions for use of a new used car shows: 458 pages full of functions and instructions! A friend mockingly commented that he also feels like a senior when it comes to operating these high-tech cars.

The amenities are undeniable: seat heating, heatable steering wheel and an intuitive cruise control make driving pleasant. But the lane assistant who intervenes in the steering can quickly become a nerve saw. A colleague first had to show me how to switch him to the "slimmed down" version. And then there is the puzzle around the control lever: driving forward through pulling, pressing backwards - who should understand that? The tiny display of the driving level does not make things easier, and the English abbreviations on the function keys are another mystery.

Keyless function-curse or blessing?

Another highlight of modern technology is the "Keyless" function: The car opens as soon as the key is in your pocket. But be careful! Thieves also use this technology to gain unauthorized access. A car master warns that criminals can read the key through closed doors. To protect yourself, I bought a key case that protects against such attacks. Despite all the convenience - I could do without some functions. The demand for these protective covers is booming, and the manufacturers are happy about the new trend!