What are the alignment standards for the left and right rearview mirrors when reversing into a parking space?
4 Answers
When reversing into a parking space, the left and right rearview mirrors should not extend beyond the dashed line. Below is relevant information about rearview mirrors: Function: Rearview mirrors are tools that allow the driver, while seated in the driver's seat, to directly obtain external information about the rear, sides, and lower parts of the vehicle. For the convenience of the driver's operation, to prevent traffic safety accidents, and to ensure personal safety, all countries mandate that vehicles must be equipped with rearview mirrors, and all rearview mirrors must be adjustable in direction. Classification: Rearview mirrors are categorized by installation location into exterior rearview mirrors, lower rearview mirrors, and interior rearview mirrors. By purpose, exterior rearview mirrors show the rear side of the vehicle, lower rearview mirrors show the area in front of and below the vehicle, and interior rearview mirrors show the area behind the vehicle and inside the cabin.
When learning to drive at the driving school, I specifically studied the standard for adjusting rearview mirrors during parallel parking. The left rearview mirror should be tilted downward to clearly see the rear wheel and ground lines, making it easier to judge whether the car body is parallel to the parking space and avoid scratching adjacent cars. The right rearview mirror needs to be slightly turned outward and tilted downward to see the ground and obstacles near the rear wheel, especially bicycles or children in blind spots. In terms of height adjustment, the upper edge of the mirror should not be too high to ensure the line of sight is at the rear of the car. It's also important to combine this with turning your head to check the actual situation to reduce errors. Different car models have slight differences: SUVs are taller, so it's better to adjust the mirrors lower; sedans are lower, so keeping the mirrors flatter is sufficient. Trying a few times to familiarize yourself with the angles can greatly improve parking efficiency and safety.
Having driven for many years, I place great importance on rearview mirror settings before reversing. The standard is to adjust the left mirror until the wheel is visible, making the rear tire and parking line clearly visible to help align the parking space and prevent misalignment. The right mirror angle is even more critical: it should be tilted downward and to the right to cover the rear bumper and the ground, reducing the risk of hitting curbs or debris while reversing. Additionally, the car's position affects the adjustment: mirrors are most accurately adjusted when the car is parked straight, and they should be lowered more in narrow parking spaces. Combining this with the sound of the parking sensors is better, but don’t rely on them entirely: mirrors should be checked regularly for any misalignment. Tip: After rain, if the mirrors are blurry, wipe them clean before reversing. Safety first—taking 20 seconds to adjust the mirrors properly can save a lot of trouble.
When first learning to reverse, I experimented with mirror adjustments and found that the left mirror should be angled to show the rear tire and parking space lines, not too high. The right mirror should be tilted slightly downward to clearly see the ground and avoid collisions. Simply put, before reversing, ensure both mirrors can show the rear wheels and the boundaries of the parking space. Practicing more in an empty space is more effective than just theory.
