Does the vehicle width include the rearview mirrors?

[SanRose]

Vehicle width does not include the rearview mirrors. According to regulations: The total width of a vehicle (excluding rearview mirrors) must not exceed 2.5 meters, and this measurement does not include the rearview mirrors. The limitation on vehicle width is to provide sufficient lateral clearance for overtaking between adjacent lanes. The height restriction ensures adequate vertical clearance under bridges and overhead utilities like cables, as well as maintaining the vehicle's rollover stability. Additional information: 1. Information one: The limitation on total vehicle length affects the time required for overtaking or when a vehicle crosses another road or railway line. Internal vehicle dimensions such as front overhang, rear overhang, wheelbase, and minimum turning radius influence the required width on curves and the vehicle's load capacity. 2. Information two: Vehicle width is the distance between two planes parallel to the vehicle's longitudinal symmetry plane and touching the fixed protruding parts on both sides of the vehicle, i.e., the distance between the two extreme points in the width direction of the vehicle. The mentioned "fixed protruding parts on both sides" do not include rearview mirrors, side marker lights, position lamps, turn signal indicators, fenders, or the deformation of the tire-ground contact area.

[MacDaniel]

As an ordinary person who drives frequently, I've had several embarrassing experiences of nearly scraping the side mirrors in narrow alleys. The official definition of vehicle width typically does not include the side mirrors, as they are movable components that can be folded in. Standard measurements generally only account for the widest fixed points of the vehicle body, such as the doors or wheel arches. This design ensures data consistency and avoids confusion due to varying mirror positions. In practical use, when passing through width-restricted gates or parking spaces, you must manually account for the additional width of the extended mirrors—otherwise, accidents may occur. It's advisable to pay attention to this detail when reviewing vehicle manuals or manufacturer specifications, as most brands explicitly state that width excludes mirrors. Extra caution is needed for city driving, especially with many narrow roads; knowing the actual width helps avoid trouble. In short, the vehicle width itself doesn’t include mirrors, but they do increase the actual space occupied.

[EmmanuelMarie]

From an engineering perspective, vehicle width is a critical dimensional parameter in automotive design, strictly measured according to international standards such as ISO 3610. It is defined as the maximum lateral distance of the main vehicle body, excluding removable components like side mirrors and side skirts. Side mirrors are considered additional equipment because they can be independently operated and replaced, and designers specifically exclude them to avoid data errors. During the manufacturing process, automakers use this benchmark to calculate door and frame layouts to ensure safety and compliance. Practical examples include SUVs with higher chassis heights, where width must be precisely controlled to prevent rollovers during turns, while compact cars focus more on space optimization. Therefore, when you check the dimensional data in a new car manual, it reflects the pure body width excluding external attachments. This helps engineers reduce variables during R&D and testing phases while ensuring buyers have a unified understanding. Keeping this in mind is practical when dealing with garage dimensions or upgrading accessories to prevent mistakes.

[ClaytonLynn]

In the world of traffic regulations, vehicle width is clearly defined and typically excludes side mirrors. The national standard GB7258 specifies the measurement criteria for vehicle dimensions, where width is calculated based on the fixed structural body to comply with road width restrictions, such as those for tunnels or bridges, ensuring safety requirements. Side mirrors, being movable components that may extend, are not included in the official width data to avoid affecting law enforcement, such as fines for exceeding width limits. Drivers are responsible for managing the actual width when mirrors are extended to prevent violations. During regular annual vehicle inspections, the main body dimensions are also checked to ensure compliance with regulations.