After posting about the good and the bad about interior emergency manual door overrides, we’ve now put them in video format and posted to our YouTube channel.
The first, available here, discusses the top (or bottom) five worst and most dangerous emergency escape plans ever conceived by auto manufacturers. Given that the original Model 3 and Model Y from Tesla did not even have a rear door override in the first versions, it is more than clear that, in their hubris, manufacturers added manual back-ups as afterthoughts.
You know, if the 12-volt battery dies. Which will happen at some point!
The lever at the top right is placed on the floor, where you might expect to find a trunk or gas cap release.
That one cost a life.
Since we read manufacturers the riot act in that video, here at this link we give credit where credit is due with examples of manual overrides that actually suit the human experience. Audi started it off with a door handle that, when pulled harder, actually engages a manual back-up, and does so on all four doors.
Completely intuitive.
Make no mistake, we continue to believe that the use of electronic locks and latches is completely unnecessary and puts drivers at risk. The technology does nothing but boost the egos of designers.
Plus, then having to add a mechanical back-up adds hardware and costs vehicles. The electronic versions are no more than a vulnerable vanity play.
——————————————————————-
The material on these pages is provided for information sharing purposes only and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business, nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.
Remember — only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.
Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.
The author has 30+ years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s, ME: MS, RPI, NY
Permanent link to this article: https://dashboardsymbols.com/2026/10/two-new-videos-added-that-highlight-the-worst-and-the-best-interior-emergency-manual-door-overrides/
Two new videos added highlight the worst and the best interior emergency manual door overrides
After posting about the good and the bad about interior emergency manual door overrides, we’ve now put them in video format and posted to our YouTube channel.
The first, available here, discusses the top (or bottom) five worst and most dangerous emergency escape plans ever conceived by auto manufacturers. Given that the original Model 3 and Model Y from Tesla did not even have a rear door override in the first versions, it is more than clear that, in their hubris, manufacturers added manual back-ups as afterthoughts.
You know, if the 12-volt battery dies. Which will happen at some point!
The lever at the top right is placed on the floor, where you might expect to find a trunk or gas cap release.
That one cost a life.
Completely intuitive.
Make no mistake, we continue to believe that the use of electronic locks and latches is completely unnecessary and puts drivers at risk. The technology does nothing but boost the egos of designers.
Plus, then having to add a mechanical back-up adds hardware and costs vehicles. The electronic versions are no more than a vulnerable vanity play.
——————————————————————-
The material on these pages is provided for information sharing purposes only and should not be used in lieu of an OEM service manual or factory authorized service procedure. We are not in the auto repair business, nor do we publish automotive service manuals. Nothing we include on these pages and posts has been reviewed, approved or authorized by any vehicle manufacturer.
Remember — only proper service and repair procedures will ensure the safe and reliable operation of your car. In addition, proper safety procedures and precautions, such as the use of safety goggles, the right tools and the equipment should be followed at all times to eliminate the possibility of personal injury or improper service which could damage the vehicle or compromise its safety.
Technology is always changing and what is current and accurate today may be literally out-of-date and inaccurate tomorrow. And when it comes to the current state of flux in the auto industry, nothing is more true.
Privacy Policy
The author has 30+ years of automotive experience and has assembled the most extensive collection of symbols and warning lights anywhere (over 1,000!) and can help you open and start any keyless start car with a dead key fob battery. BA, St. Joseph’s, ME: MS, RPI, NY