How to Adjust the Rearview Mirror for Nighttime Driving

We’ve all been there before. You’re driving down the road at night when a car comes up behind you. Because of some trick in height difference or distance from your rear bumper, it feels like their headlights are glaring right in your eyes. It's not only distracting and annoying, but can also be dangerous. Thankfully, you can adjust your rearview mirror for nighttime driving to reduce the glare.

How to adjust the mirror

Most drivers have manual rear view mirrors. If this sounds like yours, then all you need to do is flip the tab at the bottom of the mirror. This will dim the lights behind you by changing the angle of the reflective material behind the mirror’s glass, allowing you to still see what’s behind you while preventing you from being blinded by bright headlights.

If you have a power mirror, it works in the same way but you’ll need to activate nighttime mode. How to do this will vary depending on the make and model of the car. Some have specific buttons, while others might require you to press a single button more than once. Check your owner’s manual to learn how your specific mirror works.

Once you park your car for the night, make sure you put the rearview mirror back into daytime driving mode. If you don’t, you’ll find that your view in the rearview during daylight is dim and difficult to see.


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