April 16, 2004

Power Windows

Thanks to the pleasant weather, there are more opportunities to drive around with the windows rolled down. Usually just a push of a button can open the glass prison and allow the fresh spring air in; that is assuming the window lock isn't on. My arm seems to have an easy time finding this locking toggle in my current vehicle and i've often found myself confused as to why my windows are not responding to my simple commands. Every car that i've owned with power windows has had a window lock button but for the life of me i can't figure out why on earth it's there. I've only used it when a smartass friend gets bored and plays with the window but is that why that button is really there? Are humans simply unable to resist the urge to fondle the switch so engineers had to put in a way to disable that feature? If so, why not work harder to eliminate more passenger annoyances. Car companies should put in more padding in the back of the driver seat so he can't feel someone kicking it. A way to disable noisy, fold-out cup holders would be helpful as well (i mean after i turn off the windows, what else is there to play with). How about a noise filter that prevents the driver from hearing someone ask the question "are we there yet?" When i was a kid, it was sufficient for my dad to reach back, give me a smack, and tell me to "knock it off." It's nice to see we live in a time where we can use technology to solve these problems.

Posted by Matthew at April 16, 2004 10:28 AM
Comments

A couple reasons for that annoying switch...

1. Kids have even more trouble that troublesome friends when it comes to messing with the windows

2. Dogs. My dogs tend to accidently (I assume) roll the windows down while looking out of them.

I think that the window lock should only apply to windows other than the driver's, but I'm sure there's a lawyer somewhere who won't let it happen.

Posted by: Jack at April 19, 2004 10:33 PM

Kids and dogs: two things i've never had in my car.

I still think its funny engineers made something too easy to use that they had to build in a way to easily disable it. Wouldn't it make more sense to design a new knob; one that's not as easy for a child or dog to operate? Perhaps a dial you must turn and hold to make the window go up or down. Place it on a vertical surface of the door so it would be less likely to be triggered.

Posted by: MrFlick at April 20, 2004 08:01 AM