Know your car's interior design

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Understanding the interior design of a car is essential for car owners, not just for aesthetics but for practicality, comfort, and safety.

Fahad Matovu, a specialist in car electronics, highlights the ergonomic aspect of interior design by explaining how car manufacturers tailor interiors to optimise driver and passenger comfort.

“The seat positioning, the distance between the pedals and the seat, and even the angle of the steering wheel are all important for a comfortable driving experience. Drivers should adjust these features to suit their body type to avoid discomfort or even long-term injury,” Matovu says.

He further advises that modern car interiors often offer adjustable seats, lumbar support, and steering controls, which should be used for a safer, more comfortable drive.

Mechanics across Uganda agree that understanding a car's interior goes beyond appearance.

From safety and comfort to functionality and maintenance, the interior is key to enhancing the driving experience. Familiarising oneself with these features ensures a safer, more cost-effective trip.

Daniel Katumba, a well-known mechanic from Bukaka Motor Garage, emphasises the importance of understanding the layout and functionality of the car’s interior controls.

"Knowing your car’s interior is crucial because every function is tied to the vehicle’s overall performance. From the dashboard indicators to the placement of airbags and seat adjustment controls, every detail contributes to your comfort and safety while driving,” Katumba explains.

Sulaiman Lubega from Auto Hub in Wakiso focusses on the relationship between the car’s interior and its electrical systems.

“Modern vehicles come with advanced infotainment systems, climate controls, and even integrated navigation, all of which are connected to the car's electrical grid. If owners don’t understand how these systems work, they may struggle with simple issues, such as troubleshooting an unresponsive touch screen or a malfunctioning air conditioner,” Lubega explains.

He adds that a car owner’s ability to diagnose minor issues through understanding these systems can save time and reduce unnecessary trips to the garage.

Moses Kirumira, a mechanic with over 15 years of experience stresses the importance of knowing the location and function of the car’s safety features.

“Every driver should know where their airbags, seatbelt adjustments, and emergency brake controls are located. In event of an accident, this knowledge can differentiate between safety and injury,” Kirumira asserts.

He also points out that knowing how to operate the car’s defogger, hazard lights, and even windscreen wipers is critical in bad weather conditions, as these features directly impact visibility and safety.

Sarah Namirembe, a mechanic with Don Motors focusses on the importance of understanding how the car’s interior influences vehicle maintenance.

“Many car owners don’t realise that some interior components, like the carpet or dashboard, can wear out over time and affect the resale value of the car. Keeping these elements clean and functional can help preserve its value,” Namirembe says.

She also advises owners to regularly check the condition of their seat upholstery, interior lighting, and dashboard to avoid costly repairs in the future.