Car HMI: Evaluate Controls Before the Test Drive — working record
Yenra | Updated September 11, 2026
https://yenra.com/cars/hmi.html

PURPOSE
Assess essential controls and setup during a parked-car comparison and test drive.

HOW TO USE
Open this file in a text editor and save a private copy. Fill each prompt with observations and a source or date where relevant. Use “unknown” for missing evidence, “not applicable” when a field does not apply, and record the next action. Follow the vehicle manual and product instructions; this worksheet is a planning record, not a repair procedure or safety certification. Keep units with measurements and identify hypothetical numbers. Do not post VINs, account details or personal documents publicly.

1. Vehicle / trim / software / date / driver
Response:
Evidence / date:
Next action:

2. Seat and wheel position / glasses / accessibility needs
Response:
Evidence / date:
Next action:

3. Task / starting screen / steps / reach / feedback / pass or concern
Response:
Evidence / date:
Next action:

4. Front defog / lights / wipers / climate / audio / navigation
Response:
Evidence / date:
Next action:

5. Voice command / success / error recovery / connectivity or account needs
Response:
Evidence / date:
Next action:

6. Daylight and night readability / sound and color cues
Response:
Evidence / date:
Next action:

7. Documented fallback if screen or phone connection fails
Response:
Evidence / date:
Next action:

8. Road notes recorded by passenger or while stopped
Response:
Evidence / date:
Next action:

9. Essential task results / unresolved question / manual reference / repeat after update
Response:
Evidence / date:
Next action:

SUPPORTING REFERENCES
NHTSA describes visual, manual and cognitive distraction
https://www.nhtsa.gov/book/countermeasures-that-work/distracted-driving
NHTSA driver-distraction guidance collection
https://www.nhtsa.gov/laws-regulations/guidance-documents

FINAL CHECK
Unresolved questions:
Who will resolve them:
Decision and supporting evidence:
Date to review or triggering change: