How to Properly Adjust Rearview Mirror Positions?
3 Answers
Correct methods for adjusting rearview mirror positions are as follows: 1. Left side mirror adjustment: Place the horizon line at the center of the mirror, then adjust the car body edge to occupy 1/4 of the mirror's image. 2. Right side mirror adjustment: Place the horizon line at the 2/3 position of the mirror, then adjust the car body edge to occupy 1/4 of the mirror's image. 3. Center mirror adjustment: Level the center, place your left ear on the left edge. Position the distant horizon line at the center of the mirror, then adjust left and right until your right ear's image just appears at the left edge of the mirror.
Honestly, adjusting the rearview mirrors is crucial for lane-changing safety. From my experience: First, sit properly in the driver's seat and adjust the seat back. Then adjust the interior rearview mirror so it perfectly frames the entire rear window, with all window edges visible in the mirror. For the side mirrors, don't be greedy about seeing too much of your own car body - just let the door handle or edge occupy about one-quarter of the mirror's inner side, leaving most space for the side road. At this point, when you turn your head to check the side mirrors, they should cover most of the rear area. Remember before changing lanes on highways, pay special attention to checking for fast-approaching vehicles in the side mirrors, and also turn your head to scan that blind spot. After adjustment, test it on safe roads to see if blind spots are within controllable range.
Our generation knows that improperly adjusted rearview mirrors can pose significant hazards after driving for a long time. Here's how I adjust them: First, sit comfortably and adjust the center mirror inside the car to ensure a full rear view. For the side mirrors outside the car, there's a practical trick—lean your body left toward the window to adjust the left mirror until the edge of your car body just appears, then stop. Similarly, lean right to adjust the right mirror. This method provides the widest side and rear visibility. Many people prefer seeing a lot of their own car body, thinking it gives a sense of security, but this actually creates large blind spots! Also, note that the center mirror often has an anti-glare feature—manually flip the small lever at night or rely on the auto-dimming function to block strong light from vehicles behind. The best way to confirm the adjustments is to test them out while driving.
