Mirror adjustment is crucial for visibility and traffic safety. With correct setup of interior mirror and side mirrors, you reduce blind spots and get better overview during lane changes, turns and reversing.
Correct setup step by step
- Seat first: Sit naturally, with correct distance to pedals and steering wheel.
- Interior mirror: Frame the entire rear window, minimal horizon at the top.
- Left mirror: Adjust outward until the car barely disappears at the mirror edge.
- Right mirror: Mirror the left setup, slightly more horizon for curb edge.
- Fine-tune while driving: Small adjustments as needed, especially in the dark.
Checkpoints for good visibility
| Point | Check |
|---|---|
| Rear view | Rear window fills the interior mirror |
| Left side | Own car barely visible at mirror edge during straight driving |
| Right side | Minimal overlap with interior mirror, good visibility along right side |
| Night driving | Reduce glare with night mode/dimming |
| Rain/water | Keep glass clean, use mirror heating when needed |
Blind spots and shoulder check
Even with perfect mirror setup, there will always be blind spots. Always do shoulder checks before:
- Lane changes and overtaking. See Overtaking and lane changes.
- Turning in/out of road or in roundabout. See Right of way and roundabouts.
- Reversing and parking. See Reversing and parking.
- Starting from curb and lane changes in city. See Positioning and driving technique.
- Modern cars often have blind spot monitoring (BSM). Learn function and limitations in Blind spot monitoring (BSM).
Common errors and solutions
| Error | Consequence | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Too much of own car in side mirrors | Large blind spots | Turn mirrors slightly more outward |
| Too narrow interior mirror | Poor rear view | Lower mirror and frame entire rear window |
| Skipping shoulder check | Risk of side collision | Follow The 5 see rules |
| Glare at night | Reduced visibility | Use night mode/dimming, increase distance |
Exercises you can do
- Drive straight ahead and turn mirrors so cars behind fit seamlessly from interior to side mirror without disappearing.
- Practice shoulder checks before each lane change at low speed in practice area.
- Reverse along curb using mirrors, adjust according to mirror image.