The technique involves pointing your side mirrors farther outward than many drivers are accustomed to doing. At first, it might feel strange because you will see less of your own car. But the goal is to give your mirrors a job they are better suited to perform: showing you the areas beside your vehicle that your interior rearview mirror cannot cover.
Let’s look at why this method works, how to try it safely, and what every driver should know before changing their mirror settings.
The Common Mistake Almost Everyone Understands
Think about the last time you adjusted your side mirrors.
You probably leaned forward slightly, looked at the mirror, and tilted it until a portion of your car’s rear door or bodywork appeared along one edge. Perhaps you were taught to keep the rear door handle visible as a reference point.
This traditional approach feels natural because it helps you understand where your vehicle ends. When parking, reversing, or maneuvering through a narrow space, seeing part of your car can be reassuring.
