Your car has three mirrors that provide views behind and to either side of you. While they’re not the most technologically advanced accessories on your vehicle, they’re critically important. If they’re not adjusted properly, your view will be obstructed and your safety (plus that of your passengers) will be compromised. How can you adjust car mirrors, though? Whether you need to adjust a car side mirror or the rearview, it’s actually pretty simple.
Side view mirrors
To adjust your side view mirrors, make sure the driver’s seat is positioned correctly for your reach. You should be easily able to grip and turn the steering wheel, and your feet should reach the pedals without stretching.
Next, find the mirror adjuster. On some cars, this is a rod that juts out from the back of the mirror housing. On others, it’s a series of buttons on the armrest of the door. You want to see none of your vehicle in the mirror. This flies against common habit, but the fact remains that if you can see the side of your own vehicle, you cannot see cars to the side. Repeat this for the other side view mirror.
Rearview mirrors
Adjusting your rearview mirror is just as simple as your side view mirrors. Whether you’ve had a car mirror replacement, someone else has been driving, or the mirror has just been knocked out of place, you only need to follow a few simple steps.
Sit properly in the driver’s seat, with your hands gripping the steering wheel like you’re driving, and your feet able to reach the pedals without stretching your legs. Tilt the mirror up or down until you have a view out the full rear window. You may also need to adjust it left or right – the mirror has a ball pivot and will move easily.
