How to Use Rearview Mirrors When Reversing?
3 Answers
Method for using rearview mirrors when reversing: When reversing, pay attention to observing the left and right rearview mirrors. To adjust the left rearview mirror, position the horizon in the center, with the left and right positions adjusted so that the car body occupies one-fourth of the mirror's area. For the right rearview mirror, place the horizon in the upper two-thirds to allow more ground visibility, with the left and right positions the same as the left mirror. Control the vehicle speed when reversing and avoid pressing the accelerator if possible. Below are some precautions for reversing: 1. Always check for pedestrians or electric bikes behind you when reversing. Slow down to minimize danger in case of an accident. 2. When making a U-turn or reversing on a wider road, you can directly judge the position of the rear or wheels on the road through the rearview mirror. On narrower roads, if you cannot accurately determine the position of the rear and rear wheels from the mirror, open the door and observe the rear wheels while operating. When making a U-turn or reversing at intersections or street corners, expand the rear visibility and range, and be cautious of passing vehicles, pedestrians, and bicycles.
Reversing with mirrors does require skill. As a veteran manual transmission driver with 10 years' experience, my advice is to preset the angles properly - adjust the left mirror to show 1/4 car body and 3/4 road surface, while tilting the right mirror lower for better curb visibility. Don't fixate on one side during reversing; alternate between side mirrors while coordinating with the rearview mirror to monitor the rear dynamics. Focus on observing the gap between rear wheels and obstacles - stop when this gap gradually disappears. Pay extra attention to mirror glare at night; I always keep a glasses cloth handy. Remember: the car's rear follows the steering wheel's direction. Beginners should practice 30 minutes in empty spaces to develop spatial awareness.
During the driving test, the instructor repeatedly emphasized the use of rearview mirrors when reversing. The left rearview mirror is mainly used to observe the distance between the left side of the vehicle and the wall, and it is recommended to adjust it so that the horizon is centered. The right rearview mirror is crucial for parallel parking, and it is suggested to tilt it downward about 15 degrees to clearly see the parking lines and tire positions. When parking in the neighborhood, I make it a habit to first find fixed reference points in the mirrors, such as the exhaust pipe of the neighboring car or the parking spot number plate. After each steering adjustment, I don’t rush to reverse; instead, I stop to check both mirrors to confirm the position. Especially in rainy or foggy weather when the mirrors are blurry, I’d rather get out of the car to observe twice. Now, I can basically rely on the rearview mirrors to park perfectly in tight garages in one go.
