Do you need to adjust the rearview mirrors when reversing into a parking space in real life?
2 Answers
In real life, you need to adjust the rearview mirrors when reversing into a parking space. It's acceptable to adjust them while reversing, but avoid unnecessary adjustments when driving straight. When parking, tilt the mirrors slightly downward to see the ground. Ensure you can see the rear wheels and their contact with the ground when looking in the rearview mirrors. Here are the benefits of adjusting the mirrors for parking: This adjustment helps you determine if the car is reversing off course, allowing timely corrections. Additionally, you can check if the car is aligned properly by observing the lines on the ground and the car's body in the mirrors. Park in the correct position by comparing the side mirrors with the solid white line in front. If you can't see the white line before parking, double-check the mirrors to confirm the position and stop without any issues.
I've been driving for over a decade now, and I absolutely have to adjust the rearview mirrors when parallel parking. Back when I first started driving, I skipped adjusting them to save time and almost hit a pillar. Since then, I've made it a habit to adjust both side mirrors every time I get in the car, ensuring I can see the rear wheels and nearby obstacles clearly. This way, I can slowly reverse while keeping an eye on the parking lines, avoiding embarrassment or damaging someone else's car. New drivers especially should develop this habit—don't rely solely on the backup camera. Those screens are small and prone to distortion, whereas the rearview mirrors provide a more reliable, real-world perspective. Always check their position as soon as the reverse lights come on—safety comes first, no matter what. After a few tries, you'll notice you get faster at it too. In short, don’t slack on this small task—it saves a ton of trouble.
