Car technology changes fast. One year, a feature is everywhere. The next, it’s gone. Many drivers don’t notice these changes until they shop for a new car or rent one on vacation. Some features disappear because of new tech, while others fade out for safety or cost reasons. If you’re used to certain car features, you might be surprised to find them missing in newer models. Here’s why it matters: knowing what’s going away can help you make better choices when buying, selling, or maintaining your car.
1. Manual Transmissions
Manual transmissions are vanishing. Fewer new cars offer a stick shift. Most drivers now prefer automatics, and carmakers are responding. In the U.S., less than 1% of new cars sold in 2024 had a manual transmission. Manuals used to be cheaper and more fun for some, but automatics have caught up in performance and fuel efficiency. If you love driving stick, your options are shrinking fast. For most people, this change means less choice, but for some, it’s the end of an era. If you want a manual, act soon or look for used models.
2. Physical Car Keys
Remember turning a key to start your car? That’s fading out. Keyless entry and push-button start are now standard in many vehicles. Physical keys are becoming rare, replaced by fobs and even smartphone apps. This shift is about convenience, but it also means new costs. Replacing a lost fob can be expensive. And if your car battery dies, you might be stuck. Some drivers miss the simplicity of a regular key. If you value old-school reliability, check if your next car still offers a backup key slot.
3. CD Players
CD players are almost gone from new cars. Streaming and Bluetooth have taken over. Most people now use their phones for music, podcasts, and navigation. Carmakers have responded by removing CD slots to save space and money. If you have a big CD collection, you’ll need to find workarounds, like portable players or ripping your music to digital files. This change is practical for most, but it can be frustrating if you’re not ready to give up physical media.
4. Spare Tires
Spare tires are disappearing from many new cars. Instead, you might find a tire repair kit or run-flat tires. Carmakers do this to save weight and improve fuel economy. But if you get a flat, you could be in trouble. Repair kits don’t work for every type of damage, and run-flats can be expensive to replace. Before you buy a car, check what’s in the trunk. If you drive long distances or in remote areas, you might want to buy a spare tire separately. This is a practical step that can save you a lot of hassle.
5. Handbrake Levers
Electronic parking brakes are replacing the classic handbrake lever. These new systems use a button instead of a lever. They save space and can be safer, but they also take away some control. If you’re used to using the handbrake for parking on hills or in emergencies, the change can feel strange. Electronic brakes can also be more expensive to repair. If you like the feel of a manual handbrake, you’ll need to look for older models or specific trims. This is one more way cars are becoming more automated and less hands-on.
6. Analog Gauges
Analog gauges—like speedometers and fuel dials—are being replaced by digital screens. Digital dashboards can show more information and look modern, but some drivers find them distracting or hard to read. Analog gauges are simple and reliable. If you prefer a classic look and feel, you might be disappointed by the all-digital trend. Some luxury brands now offer fully customizable screens, but this can mean more things to go wrong. If you want analog gauges, check the dashboard before you buy.
7. Cigarette Lighters and Ashtrays
Cigarette lighters and ashtrays are almost extinct in new cars. Most people don’t smoke in their vehicles anymore, so carmakers have removed these features. Instead, you’ll find USB ports and power outlets. This change frees up space and reduces clutter, but it can be annoying if you use the lighter for charging devices or other accessories. If you need a 12V outlet, check the specs before you buy. You can always add an adapter, but it’s not the same as having a built-in lighter.
What This Means for Your Next Car
Car features come and go, often without much warning. Some changes make cars safer or more efficient. Others just reflect new habits and technology. If you care about certain features—like manual transmissions or analog gauges—pay close attention when shopping for your next car. Ask questions. Check the details. And think about what matters most to you. The car you buy today might not have the features you expect, so it pays to be informed.
Have you noticed any car features disappearing that you miss? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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