Does vehicle width include side mirrors?
3 Answers
According to the national standard "GB1589-89" issued, the total width of a vehicle does not include side mirrors. In the national standard, the significance of vehicle width data is to provide sufficient space during overtaking, preventing accidents or situations where road markings are narrower than the vehicle's width due to excessive width. Relevant information about car side mirrors is as follows: 1. Position: Car side mirrors are located on the left and right sides of the car's front, as well as inside the front of the car. 2. Function: Car side mirrors reflect the situation behind, beside, and below the car, allowing the driver to indirectly see these positions clearly. They serve as the "second pair of eyes," expanding the driver's field of vision.
I remember struggling with this issue when buying a car. The salesperson told me that the car width usually doesn't include the side mirrors. The official specifications refer to the widest fixed part of the body, with mirrors considered detachable or foldable accessories. For example, when reversing in parking lots, relying solely on the labeled width can be misleading - ignoring the mirrors increases the actual width, making it easy to scrape walls or other vehicles. As someone who frequently drives in cities, I've noticed mirrors protrude the most in narrow intersections. I'd advise beginners to visually estimate the full width including mirrors when parking. Before purchasing, check manufacturer data - most specify width excluding mirrors. Additionally, in areas like mountain roads, mirrors are prone to hitting branches. Regular checks on mirror fixtures can prevent loosening and save trouble. Understanding this helps avoid accidents, and developing good habits to ensure sufficient space is always wise.
As a long-time car enthusiast, the reason vehicle width typically excludes mirrors is that body width is the fundamental measurement standard, with mirrors considered additional protrusions. For example, spec sheets clearly state 'width (excluding mirrors)'; but certain regulations like European dimension tests include total width for compliance. I always leave a 10cm margin for mirrors when parking in garages—neglecting this once damaged my own mirror; driving through tunnels or narrow alleys, remember to slow down and check mirror-to-obstacle clearance; when buying new cars, I ask sellers for exact specs—a practical tip is folding mirrors in tight spaces for easier passage. Sharing these details ensures safer driving and saves repair costs.
