curb feelers

Definition

Metal or rubber strips attached to the lower edge of a vehicle's front bumper that touch the curb, helping the driver gauge proximity to the curb when parking.

Example Usage

The old Cadillac had curb feelers that would gently brush the curb to let the driver know when to stop.

Origin

Popular automotive accessory from the 1950s and 1960s when cars were wider and parking by feel rather than visibility was common.

Fun Fact

Curb feelers fell out of favor as parking technology improved and cars became narrower, though they remain a nostalgic symbol of that era.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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