Adjusting an electric side mirror is a straightforward process typically performed using a dedicated control knob or joystick located on your vehicle's door panel or dashboard.
Electric side mirrors, often referred to as power mirrors, offer significant convenience and precision, allowing you to fine-tune your vehicle's exterior mirrors without needing to manually manipulate the glass. This feature greatly enhances driving safety by enabling quick and easy optimization of your rear and side visibility.
Step-by-Step Adjustment of Your Electric Side Mirror
As highlighted in the Mopar YouTube video titled "Power Mirrors - Tilting and adjustment of your car mirrors...", the process for adjusting your electric side mirrors generally involves two main steps:
- Select the Mirror: First, you must indicate which mirror you intend to adjust. This is typically achieved by turning the control knob to the upper left or upper right position to select the corresponding driver's side or passenger's side mirror. In some vehicle models, you might find separate buttons labeled 'L' (Left) and 'R' (Right) for mirror selection.
- Adjust the Angle: Once the desired mirror is selected, tilt the control knob in the direction you'd like to move the mirror. For instance, tilting the knob upwards will move the mirror's view up, downwards will move it down, left will move it left, and right will move it right. This intuitive control allows for precise positioning, ensuring you have the optimal rearward view.
Tips for Optimal Mirror Adjustment
Proper mirror adjustment is crucial for minimizing blind spots and maximizing safety on the road. Here are some practical insights for setting your mirrors effectively:
- Driver's Side Mirror: For the driver's side mirror, lean slightly towards the driver's side window. Then, adjust the mirror so that you can just barely see the side of your car. When you return to your normal seating position, the side of your vehicle should be out of view, or only minimally visible.
- Passenger's Side Mirror: Similarly, for the passenger's side mirror, lean slightly towards the center of the vehicle (across the console). Adjust the mirror so that you can just barely see the side of your car. When seated normally, the side of your vehicle should generally not be visible.
- Reducing Blind Spots (Blind Spot Monitor Method): A highly effective method to reduce blind spots involves angling your side mirrors outward slightly. The goal is that as a vehicle disappears from your rear-view mirror, it should immediately appear in your side mirror. This seamless transition significantly reduces the "blind spot" area, making lane changes and merging safer.
