When I first started driving, I was a bundle of nerves. I couldn’t imagine being behind the wheel alone, so my mom sat next to me every time I drove, offering silent support and never once complaining. Honestly, I don’t know how she did it because I was the kind of driver who double-checked everything ten times and still felt unsure.

Some people get their license and hit the road with complete confidence, like they’ve been driving since birth. Good for them, but I was not that person. These days, I’m a much better driver, but I still have those moments when anxiety creeps in, especially in heavy traffic or unfamiliar areas. You never really know what you might encounter out there on the road, which is why I’m grateful that car manufacturers have designed modern vehicles with our safety—and occasional nervousness—in mind. We’ve all heard the seatbelt warning chime that blares when you forget to buckle up.

Sure, it’s annoying, but it’s there to save your life, and it does its job well. Beyond the obvious features like seatbelts, airbags, and rearview cameras, there’s one hidden feature that isn’t talked about nearly enough—a secret switch in many cars that could literally save your life in an emergency. And believe it or not, I only found out about it thanks to a TikTok user named @huyameishuoche, who posted a video that really got me thinking. Picture this: your car ends up submerged in water.

A terrifying thought, right? You’re trapped inside, and your usual escape routes like the doors or windows may not work due to pressure or electrical failure. This is when the hidden switch becomes crucial. It’s typically located on the inside of the trunk, and its purpose is to allow someone to open the trunk from the inside and escape. You may be wondering how you’d even access the trunk in such a scenario. Well, in most cars, the back seats fold down, giving you access from the main cabin to the trunk. In the video, the TikTok user shows step-by-step how to fold the seats, crawl through, and locate the switch.

@master_driver666 99% of people don’t know! Hidden emergency features in your car!#skills #knowledge #fpy #fyp #tips #foryou #carsoftiktok ♬ 原聲 – 虎牙妹说车 – Master driver

With just one press, the trunk opens, providing a vital escape route. It’s simple, it’s effective, and most importantly, it can save your life if you’re ever trapped in your car. Learning about that feature got me thinking about other hidden or multipurpose tools inside our vehicles. For instance, did you know your headrests might serve a secondary function in emergencies? While they’re primarily designed to support your head and reduce neck injuries during collisions, some can be removed and used to break a car window if necessary. Now, not all vehicles are designed this way, and some people argue it’s not the safest method, but just being aware of the possibility adds one more option to your emergency toolkit. The bottom line is that knowing your car’s features—both obvious and hidden—can make all the difference in a crisis. It’s not just about learning how to use the windshield wipers or adjusting the mirrors. Take the time to explore your vehicle’s manual, figure out what every button and latch does, and know how to respond in unusual situations. Preparation makes you safer, more confident, and better equipped to handle the unexpected. But preparedness doesn’t end with knowing your vehicle. Practicing safe driving habits is just as important. That means staying off your phone, following speed limits, and always keeping an eye on what’s happening around you. Pair those habits with routine maintenance—checking your brakes, fluid levels, tires, and lights—and you’re setting yourself up for a safer driving experience. Driving might not always feel comfortable, especially if you’re someone like me who wasn’t naturally confident behind the wheel. But thanks to built-in safety features, like the seatbelt alarm and the lesser-known trunk switch, along with smart driving practices and a little know-how, we can all be better prepared. It’s not just about avoiding accidents—it’s about feeling peace of mind each time you start the engine. And in today’s fast-paced world, peace of mind is something we all could use more of. So the next time you hop into your car, remember that knowing your vehicle inside and out isn’t just smart—it could one day save your life. Stay safe out there.