What is the mirror in the center of the car called?
2 Answers
The mirror in the center of the car is called the rearview mirror, which is mainly designed to allow the driver to check the situation behind the vehicle without changing their field of vision. Depending on the material of the rearview mirror, it can be categorized into aluminum mirrors, chrome mirrors, silver mirrors, and blue mirrors. Based on the shape of the mirror surface, rearview mirrors can be divided into flat mirrors, spherical mirrors, and dual-curvature mirrors. According to their functionality, they can be classified into automatic anti-glare rearview mirrors and manual anti-glare rearview mirrors. An automatic anti-glare rearview mirror consists of a mirror, two photodiodes, and an electronic controller. When the sensor detects that the light on the mirror is too bright, it darkens the mirror glass, thereby reducing the refractive index of the light and effectively protecting the driver's eyes. A manual anti-glare rearview mirror typically consists of two mirrors with different refractive indices, and the mirror can be switched using a toggle to reduce the reflection of light.
In my years of driving experience, the mirror hanging in the center of the car is called the center rearview mirror, commonly known as the interior rearview mirror. Its main purpose is to help the driver constantly monitor the situation behind the vehicle, such as following distance, the movement of vehicles behind, or assisting in avoiding blind spots when reversing. I've noticed that many beginners tend to overlook it, but adjusting it is actually quite simple: after sitting in the driver's seat, ensure your head is in a natural position so you can see the full view of the rear window; if there are stains or fog on the mirror, just wipe it with a soft cloth, as dirt can affect visibility clarity. In terms of safety, it helps prevent rear-end collisions, especially when changing lanes on highways—a quick glance can help determine if the speed of the vehicle behind is safe. Additionally, some older cars come with a manual anti-glare feature; flipping a small lever can reduce glare when the car behind uses high beams at night. Developing the habit of checking this mirror before every drive can make hitting the road much more reassuring.
