Your mirrors are your best tools for staying aware of your surroundings on the road. However, many drivers never take the time to adjust them properly. In fact, most people set their side mirrors in a way that actually increases their blind spots rather than reducing them. If you’ve ever had a close call while changing lanes or backing out of a parking space, your mirror setup might be part of the problem.
Correct mirror positioning can improve visibility, reduce stress behind the wheel, and help you react faster to vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists approaching from behind. Here’s how to set up your mirrors the right way for maximum awareness.
Start With the Rearview Mirror
The rearview mirror gives you a clear view of the road directly behind your vehicle. It should be centered so you can see as much of the back window as possible without needing to move your head.
Sit in your normal driving position and make sure the mirror frames the entire rear window. You shouldn’t have to lean or shift to get the full view. If your car has auto-dimming features or digital rearview mirror tech, check that it’s functioning properly before hitting the road.
Adjust the Side Mirrors Differently Than You Might Think
Most drivers angle their side mirrors to show the side of their own car. While that might feel helpful, it actually narrows your field of view and creates larger blind spots. The better strategy is to set your side mirrors so they just barely show the edge of your vehicle, or not at all.
To adjust them properly, sit in your usual driving position and do the following:
For the left mirror, lean your head against the driver’s side window and adjust the mirror so you can barely see the edge of your car.
For the right mirror, lean toward the center of the vehicle, just above the gear shifter or center console, and adjust the mirror in the same way.
When set this way, your side mirrors pick up where your rearview mirror’s coverage ends, creating a wider, continuous view of what’s happening behind and beside you.
Check for Blind Spots
Even with perfectly adjusted mirrors, blind spots can still exist. That’s why turning your head and glancing over your shoulder before changing lanes is important. But when your mirrors are set correctly, those blind spots are much smaller and easier to manage.
To test your setup, have a friend walk around your vehicle while you sit in the driver’s seat. Watch how they move from the rearview to your side mirror and then into your peripheral vision. You’ll quickly see how much coverage you really have.
Don’t Forget to Clean The Mirrors
It might sound obvious, but dirty or foggy mirrors reduce visibility more than you think. Regularly wipe down all mirrors with a clean microfiber cloth. During winter, watch for frost buildup and defog the interior glass before driving.
If your car has power-folding mirrors, make sure they’re fully extended before adjusting. Mirrors that are misaligned from impact or rough weather can throw off your adjustments, so check them after every car wash or parking lot bump.
Technology Helps, but Don’t Rely on It Alone
Many vehicles now come equipped with blind spot monitoring systems and rearview cameras. These features are helpful, but they’re not a substitute for properly adjusted mirrors and good habits.
Sensors can miss small motorcycles or fast-approaching cars in certain lighting conditions, and cameras can become dirty or misaligned. Relying too heavily on technology without paying attention to your mirrors can lead to close calls that were otherwise avoidable.
Auto Pro – Helping Drivers Stay Safe in Reading, PA
At Auto Pro in Reading, we believe that good driving starts with good visibility. Whether you're commuting on Route 222 or cruising through city streets, setting your mirrors the right way can keep you safer and more confident. Need help with visibility issues, damaged mirrors, or backup camera adjustments? We’ve got you covered with expert service and real solutions.