A car model is manufactured and distributed in many countries but not all features are the same. In that case, manufacturers will leave some features as pending, also known as hidden features.
The goal of automakers is to reduce costs, bring down prices, and create differentiation between each model or version so that customers can choose.
To reduce the selling price and create differences between versions, manufacturers have hidden some features on the car.
Talking to VietNamNet, Mr. Nguyen Linh - Specializing in auto parts and retrofit business in the Northern region said that hidden features on cars are all interesting features, which can help users experience many smarter and safer features. Therefore, many auto repair and tuning garages often have additional items to activate hidden features.
What do I need to do to enable hidden features?
Mr. Nguyen Linh shared: "Not all hidden features can be activated by software, some features require additional accessories to be compatible with the activated feature. The cost of implementation ranges from 1-2 million VND if only by software and up to several million if additional accessories must be installed."
If the hidden feature requires additional accessories such as sensors, controllers... these accessories must be installed before proceeding to intervene and change the function in the control box via OBD2 port communication.
Some features require additional accessories to enable hidden features.
With the car features that have been developed by the manufacturers and set up in the car's system in a hidden form, the mechanic can completely use specialized software to help the features work again.
Many people worry that if they activate hidden features on a new car, the warranty will be void. This is reasonable because car manufacturers recommend that users do not interfere with the functions, so if there is a problem that leads to damage to the car related to hidden features, the car owner may lose part or all of the warranty.
According to Mr. Linh, activating hidden features is an agreement between the two parties. In fact, the features are only activated through software without having to install additional accessories, so it is very difficult for errors to occur and affect any of the original functions of the vehicle. However, if you want to keep the warranty, users can consider this.
Hidden features on some car models in Vietnam
According to VietNamNet's research, in the Vietnamese market, many car models have hidden features, of which Ford, Volkswagen, and Audi are the brands with the most hidden features.
Hidden features on the 2023 Ford Everest and Ranger. (Photo: Nova4x4)
Some of the hidden features that many people are interested in include traffic sign recognition, navigation mode on the dashboard, Sport driving mode, automatic seat forward and backward when entering and exiting the car, automatic remote trunk opening, automatic door locking when leaving the car...
Some cars from KIA, Hyundai, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Toyota are required to install new accessories to activate hidden features such as tire pressure sensors, rear cameras, remote start, automatic headlights, cruise control, and speed limits.
Some hidden features on 3 Volkswagen car models sold in Vietnam (Photo: Nguyen Linh)
However, users also need to choose reputable units to activate hidden features and enjoy clear warranty policies.
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