How to Adjust Mirrors in Tesla for Better Visibility & Safety
Getting your Tesla’s mirrors adjusted just right is key to safe and comfortable driving. Whether you’re new to Tesla or switching from a traditional car, the process might feel a bit different. But don’t worry, it’s straightforward once you know where to look.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to easily adjust your side and rearview mirrors using Tesla’s touchscreen controls and manual options. Properly set mirrors reduce blind spots and give you a clearer view of the road, making your drives smoother and safer. Let’s dive into the simple steps to get your mirrors perfectly aligned in no time.
Understanding Tesla’s Mirror Adjustment System
Tesla’s mirror adjustment system combines electronic controls with manual design for precise positioning. Knowing the types of mirrors and how to use the controls ensures optimal visibility and safety.
Types of Mirrors in Tesla Vehicles
Tesla vehicles include two side mirrors and one interior rearview mirror. Side mirrors offer electronic adjustment and auto-dimming features, while the rearview mirror typically includes an auto-dimming function but lacks electronic positioning. Some Tesla models equip you with power-folding side mirrors for convenience in narrow spaces. Each mirror type plays a distinct role in reducing blind spots and enhancing road visibility.
Overview of Mirror Controls
Tesla uses touchscreen interface controls to adjust side mirrors. You access mirror controls through the vehicle’s central display; selecting left or right mirrors activates the adjustment mode. Use the touchscreen sliders or buttons to move each mirror up, down, left, or right with fine precision. The rearview mirror adjusts manually, requiring physical movement rather than touchscreen input. Additionally, Tesla stores mirror positions in user profiles, so mirror settings recall automatically when you switch drivers.
Step-by-Step Guide to Adjusting Side Mirrors
Adjusting your Tesla’s side mirrors ensures clear visibility and safer driving. Follow these steps to control mirror positions using the touchscreen and save your settings for convenience.
Accessing the Mirror Adjustment Settings
Start by tapping the car icon on your Tesla’s touchscreen. Select the ‘Controls’ menu, then find the ‘Displays’ section. Locate the mirror adjustment option to activate the controls. This opens mirror controls allowing precise positioning of each side mirror.
Adjusting the Driver and Passenger Side Mirrors
Select either the left or right mirror icon on the touchscreen. Use the arrows or joystick control displayed to tilt the mirror up, down, left, or right. Position the mirror so its edge just shows a small part of your car, maximizing your field of view and minimizing blind spots. Repeat this process for both driver and passenger side mirrors.
Saving Mirror Positions
Once satisfied with your adjustments, save the settings within your Tesla user profile. Tap “Save” or “Set” under the mirror options. Your Tesla stores these mirror positions automatically for quick recall, maintaining your preferences each time you drive. If multiple drivers use the car, ensure each profile records distinct mirror settings.
Adjusting the Rearview Mirror
Adjusting your Tesla’s rearview mirror enhances rear visibility and reduces glare. You can manage this adjustment manually or rely on auto-dimming features depending on your model and preferences.
Manual vs. Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirrors
Manual rearview mirrors require physical adjustment to change the angle. You can tilt the mirror up, down, left, or right by gently pushing its frame. Tesla models often include an auto-dimming rearview mirror, which uses sensors to reduce glare automatically from headlights behind you. If your mirror has a manual day/night switch, flip it to adjust glare reduction during night driving. The auto-dimming feature activates without manual input, improving nighttime comfort while maintaining clear visibility.
How to Properly Position the Rearview Mirror
Center the rearview mirror to show as much of the rear window as possible. When seated in your normal driving posture, your rearview mirror should display the entire rear windshield without needing head or body movement. Keep the mirror angle stable and ensure no obstructions block your view. Adjust the mirror before starting to drive to maintain focus on the road and minimize distractions.
Tips for Optimal Mirror Adjustment
Adjusting your Tesla’s mirrors correctly boosts safety by maximizing visibility. Use these tips to fine-tune your mirrors for the best driving experience.
Ensuring Maximum Visibility
Position side mirrors so you can see the edge of your vehicle without moving your head, reducing blind spots effectively. Center the rearview mirror to display the full rear windshield, allowing a clear view behind you. Use Tesla’s electronic adjustment controls to make precise changes. Verify visibility by checking that adjacent lanes and the road behind appear smoothly in the mirrors. Adjust passenger side mirrors slightly wider to cover areas missed by the driver side. Confirm all mirrors provide seamless views without overlap or gaps.
Adjusting for Different Driving Conditions
Tilt side mirrors downward when parking on slopes to see curb edges and prevent wheel damage. Adjust mirrors to reduce glare during night driving; rely on the auto-dimming rearview mirror feature for headlights behind you. In heavy rain or fog, adjust mirrors to focus slightly lower to avoid reflecting excessive sky or bright lights. When driving at high speeds, position mirrors to minimize wind noise and vibrations, ensuring stable views. Modify mirror angles if towing or carrying wide loads to maintain awareness of extended surroundings.
Conclusion
Adjusting your Tesla’s mirrors is a simple yet crucial step to enhance your driving safety and comfort. Taking the time to fine-tune both side and rearview mirrors ensures you get the best possible visibility with minimal blind spots.
Remember that using Tesla’s touchscreen controls along with manual adjustments gives you precise control over mirror positioning. Once set, saving your preferences to your user profile makes every drive smoother and more personalized.
With properly aligned mirrors, you’ll feel more confident and secure on the road, whether you’re cruising through city streets or tackling long trips.

Certification: BSc in Mechanical Engineering
Education: Mechanical engineer
Lives In: 539 W Commerce St, Dallas, TX 75208, USA
Md Rofiqul is an auto mechanic student and writer with over half a decade of experience in the automotive field. He has worked with top automotive brands such as Lexus, Quantum, and also owns two automotive blogs autocarneed.com and taxiwiz.com.