What is the optimal position for adjusting the exterior rearview mirrors?
3 Answers
The body area in the exterior rearview mirror should not exceed 1/4 of the mirror space, and the distant horizon should be positioned at the center of the mirror. Below are the relevant adjustment standards: 1. Left side mirror adjustment standard: Place the horizontal line at the midline position of the rearview mirror, then adjust the edge of the vehicle body to occupy 1/4 of the mirror image. 2. Right side mirror adjustment standard: Position the horizontal line at the 2/3 point of the rearview mirror, then adjust the edge of the vehicle body to occupy 1/4 of the mirror image. 3. Center rearview mirror adjustment standard: Place the distant horizontal line horizontally at the midline position of the center rearview mirror, then adjust left and right until the image of your right ear just appears at the left edge of the mirror.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I firmly believe that optimal side mirror positioning is crucial for safe driving. After adjusting your seating position, start with the mirrors. The left side mirror should show a sliver of your car's rear edge—like a small portion of the door handle—while predominantly covering the side and rear road space to eliminate common blind spots. Due to its placement, the right mirror requires greater outward tilt, barely showing the car's outline, to maximize lateral visibility. Paired with the rearview mirror, these three should create a seamless panoramic view for comprehensive situational awareness. Safety first—I make it a habit to double-check all mirrors before driving to prevent errors during lane changes or reversing. Especially during long drives when posture shifts, periodic readjustments are essential—never compromise on this vital routine.
As a seasoned long-distance driver, my trick for adjusting side mirrors is simple. After settling into position, set the left mirror so the horizon is slightly above center, allowing a view of the door corner while capturing rear road conditions. Tilt the right mirror slightly higher and outward to minimize body visibility while maximizing coverage, reducing blind spots at high speeds. No need for professional precision—trust your gut, but test it: when sitting upright, check if mirrors cover most side visibility. In daily use, I find this method highly practical, even in rainy conditions with poor visibility, saving me much hassle. I recommend regular checks—don’t wait until an incident reminds you to adjust.
