How to Determine the Rear Position of the Car Using Rearview Mirrors?

[DelKinsley]

When the wall is directly behind the rear of the car, observe through the left rearview mirror while reversing. Stop the car when the base of the wall or the lower edge of the curb appears at the lower edge of the rearview mirror. If you choose a 45-degree angle, also observe through the left rearview mirror. Stop the car when the base of the wall or the lower edge of the curb appears at the lower quarter of the rearview mirror.

[Yolanda]

When judging the position of the rear of the car by looking at the rearview mirrors, the key lies in regular practice and proper mirror adjustment. When I first started driving, I would find an empty space to practice parking: first, adjust the side mirrors so that the edge of the car body is just slightly visible, which helps as a reference for the approximate position of the rear. During reversing, observe the changing position of fixed objects in the rearview mirror to gauge the movement of the rear, such as looking at lines on the ground or poles—distance perception is developed through repeated trial and error. For safety, avoid reversing at full speed, make minor mirror adjustments, and take multiple glances. In daily situations like garages or parking lots, I stick a small marker on the rear of the car as a reference point. Don’t rely too much on electronic devices; basic functions help reduce blind-spot accidents. Remember, patience and repetition are key—expecting to master it in one or two tries is unrealistic. Gaining experience in real-life scenarios is what truly works.

[OSara]

When I first started learning to drive, judging the rear position through the rearview mirrors seemed complicated, but it turned out to be quite simple with practice. I would adjust the angle of the side mirrors to cover the outline of the rear of the car. During reversing, I focused on the interior rearview mirror, paying attention to whether objects behind were shrinking in the view or getting closer to judge if the rear was approaching. I practiced in open areas, like reversing to a predetermined spot in an empty lot, to develop a sense of distance. Safety-wise, it's better not to rush—I would rather stop multiple times to check the changes in the mirror reflections. Keeping the mirrors clean is crucial, especially in rainy or foggy conditions, as dust can affect clarity. I also learned to combine speed control; moving slowly allows for more accurate position interpretation and avoids misjudgments caused by body sway. In short, making this a daily practice will naturally help you master the movements of the rear end with precision.

[MacMadelyn]

I determine the rear position of the car by adjusting the mirror angles: when setting the side mirrors, ensure you can see the very end of the car's rear. When reversing, observe the changes in the position of fixed points behind to judge the distance. Practice regularly in safe areas, reversing to reference lines, with the interior mirror providing an overall view to help calibrate. The key is to try multiple times to reduce errors and avoid distractions by looking elsewhere. Safety first—always be ready to stop and confirm the actual position.