Sorry kids, there’s no provision for children drivers in RX-8
Owner’s Manuals
We talk a lot about the vehicles we sell, automotive technology, awards and driving safety in our blog, but this time we’d like to take an opportunity to have a little fun. We’re looking at the ridiculous things you may be able to read in vehicle owner’s manuals along with some other dumb instructions that beg the question; “who are they writing that for?” To lead off let’s consider this gem from a 2007 Mazda RX-8 owner’s manual. “The driver’s seat belt has no provisions for child-restraint systems and has only an emergency locking mode.” Who are they talking too? Let’s consider some more owner’s manual oddities.
Sorry, I can’t start you from the airplane.
From the 2012 Nissan Juke owner’s manual: “Do not operate the key fob while on an airplane.” Guess you can’t remote start your car as you fly over before you land any more.
Our next one comes from a 2002 Mini owner’s manual; all we can say is wow. “The manual is not intended to help you understand the operation and maintenance of your motor vehicle. Rather, it is meant to provide you with invaluable information that would, under normal driving conditions, take most car owners months to discover for themselves. Information that has been painstakingly gleaned from many hours of vehicle operation.” Well, at least they shared what they learned about driving their vehicle.
You mean no roof rack, what?
In a 2009 Saab 9-3 owner’s manual you can find guidance for cold days. “Do not operate the soft top in temperatures below 23 degrees F (-5 degrees C). Roof racks and ski holders must not be mounted on the soft top.” We can agree that the roof rack would be a problem with the top down indeed, but we’re pretty confused on who needs the rest.
Some of the ridiculous things you can read in vehicle owner’s manuals are as obvious as the label on airline peanuts that reads, “Instructions: open packet, eat nuts.” After looking into just a few of these (stupid)—there, we said it—things we are thankful for common sense. Undoubtedly there was some guy or gal out there that brought on the need for these dumbfounding directions or we’re all the butt of some technical writer’s inside joke. On the later, the notion is just as ridiculous as these owner’s manuals are; the writer cannot even see others baffled by his brilliance.
When you choose Briggs Supercenter for your next vehicle purchase you can count on our sales team to take the time to help you get to know the vehicle you’re buying. It’s just part of the Briggs Advantage, our commitment to your satisfaction. We strive to provide you with the best possible selection and offer used cars in Manhattan, used trucks in Manhattan and even used bikes in Manhattan too. Come on in to Briggs Supercenter and we’ll help get you into the vehicle you’ve been looking for. We cannot promise comedic owner’s manuals, but you never know until you look.