Some vehicles also have features that change the equation, including convex mirrors, blind-spot monitoring systems, and cameras.
The important lesson is not that every driver must use exactly the same mirror setting. It is that mirror positioning deserves more thought than simply tilting the glass until the view feels familiar.
If you decide to try the outward-facing method, check your vehicle’s owner’s manual and follow any manufacturer-specific guidance.
What About Parking?
One reason drivers hesitate to angle their mirrors outward is that they become less useful for judging the position of the car during parking.
That concern is understandable.
When reversing into a space or parking close to a curb, seeing the vehicle’s side or rear wheel can help you judge distances. Mirrors positioned for broader traffic coverage may not provide the same convenient view.
Some drivers choose to adjust their mirrors temporarily when parking. Others use parking sensors, cameras, or a brief change in head position to improve their view.
