Warming your car on a freezing morning can often feel like a long job. Millions of drivers face this frustrating ritual every winter – sitting shivering in the cold while they wait to the heaters to kick in making it both warm inside and clearing the mist and ice from windows.
But what if there was a hidden feature in your car designed to tackle this very problem, sparing you the misery of scraping frost and waiting endlessly for the engine to warm? Expert mechanics from LockingWheelnutsRemoved have revealed that some vehicles may have a little-known button designed to heat your engine faster, and it’s hiding in plain sight.
However they say many drivers overlook features such as this one because they seem overly technical – even though they can be straightforward. They added: “This little-known feature isn’t just a convenience—it’s a game-changer for preserving your car’s engine health and enhancing your winter driving experience.
“By taking a few minutes to investigate whether your car has this hidden gem, you could save yourself time, money, and the frustration of cold starts.” This ingenious feature could transform how you tackle cold starts—but do you know where to find it?
What is the hidden button?
The “hidden button” is often part of a car’s engine heating system or advanced start-up features, designed to improve performance during cold weather. Many newer vehicles include an “auxiliary heater” button that preheats the engine and cabin by using the car’s electrical or fuel system. Others, with remote start or “eco mode,” also use this feature to help the engine warm up faster.
Experts point out that many drivers miss this button because it’s not clearly labelled or highlighted in the owner’s manual. It’s typically located near the climate controls or in the infotainment system, making it easy to overlook.
Why should you warm your engine?
The experts say: “Driving a cold engine can lead to increased wear and tear. When your engine starts cold, oil isn’t circulated as effectively, leading to increased friction and potential long-term damage to vital components.
“Allowing your engine to warm up properly ensures the oil flows smoothly, reducing strain on your car and improving fuel efficiency. Additionally, a warm engine means a more comfortable ride, with quicker defrosting and cabin heating, making those frosty starts far less miserable.”
How to find and use the feature
- Consult Your Owner’s Manual: Begin by reviewing your car’s manual. Many vehicles outline special features or buttons in the climate control or engine settings sections. Look for terms like “auxiliary heater,” “eco start,” or “remote start”
- Check the Climate Control System: In some models, the button is integrated into the car’s HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) controls. It may be labelled as a heater booster or have an icon resembling a fan or heat waves
- Explore Your Infotainment System: Modern cars often include heating features accessible through the touchscreen menu. Navigate to vehicle settings and look for options related to climate or engine start.
- Ask an Expert: If you’re unsure, reach out to professional mechanics. A quick consultation with a professional can uncover hidden functionalities you might not even realize your car has.
What if your car does not have the feature?
If your vehicle lacks this specific button, don’t worry. There are still ways to ensure your engine warms up effectively:
- Remote Starters: Consider installing a remote starter to warm your car before you even step outside
- Engine Block Heaters: These devices plug into your home’s electrical system to keep your engine warm overnight
- Proper Maintenance: Regular oil changes and using the right viscosity oil can improve your engine’s cold-weather performance