[speedlever]

Why is it so difficult to adjust the side view mirrors properly?

I use a version of this technique. I like to adjust the side mirrors such that a vehicle overtaking me either on the left or the right will pass from my rear view mirror to my side view mirror seamlessly. IE, as a vehicle approaches from the rear and passes on my left, for example, I have the left side view mirror adjusted so that as the overtaking vehicle's left headlight leaves my rearview mirror, it appears in my left side view mirror, and so forth. It is basically a seamless visual transition from the rear to either side view mirror.

When my side view mirrors are adjusted this way, I cannot see either side of my vehicle in the side view mirrors (unlike the way I used to have them adjusted). But I can see a vehicle in my side view mirrors until they become peripherally visible either side of me.

 

[speedlever]

I had that extended mirror on the loaner 2015 Accord for 4+ months. I never saw any value in it as I promptly adjusted my side view mirrors per my above post as soon as I departed the dealership. I think it was maybe an inch or so wide on the Accord too. Perhaps a 2 or 3 inch extended mirror might be more useful, I dunno. Regardless, I like how my adjustment works.

 

[speedlever]

follow these instructions and your blind spots will be all but gone...I've been driving for years not knowing this, it really does work.

Side-view mirrors

To adjust the driver’s side-view mirror, place your head against the left side window and set the mirror so you can just barely see the side of the car in the mirror’s right side.

To adjust the passenger’s side-view mirror, position your head so that it is just above the center console. Set the mirror so you can just barely see the side of the car in the left side of the mirror. If the vehicle is not equipped with remove mirror-adjustment controls, you may need assistance when properly positioning this mirror.

I do something similar. I adjust the side mirrors such that as a vehicle on either side of me enters/leaves my rear view mirror, it begins to enter/leave the appropriate side view mirror. That seems to provide me with accurate blind spot protection. I used to do it like everyone else and left a good portion of my own vehicle showing in each side view mirror. I have since learned the error of my ways!