One of the many features of a vehicle is that it has side mirrors. These allow drivers to see what's coming up next to them on their left and right sides, which helps when changing lanes or merging onto highways. Most people are aware of this and know how they work. We've reviewed side mirrors for the Hyundai Palisade, and several other models, to share some finer details you might not know.
The Hyundai Palisade does come equipped with folding side mirrors! They are both functional and stylish. Palisade side view mirrors also have automatic dimming features that allow them to adjust based on how much light is around them. This reduces glare from the sun or headlights of other cars. The mirrors have three positions:
- Full left
- Full right
- Off
Folding side mirrors are an integral part of any vehicle. But what makes them great? In this article, we will discuss the features of folding mirrors on the Hyundai Palisade and dive into how they work, why we need them, and outline their purpose.
The Safe, Stylish Side View Mirror
Side mirrors have been around since 1913 with the introduction by Henry Ford. They were originally used as safety devices because they allowed drivers to know if anything was very close behind them, so they had time to react before getting in an accident.
The side mirror feature of the Hyundai Palisade, or blind spot mirrors, is placed on both driver's and passenger sides of the vehicle, angled at the rear bumpers. The purpose of mirrors is to help drivers see what is happening in their blind spots to react appropriately if anything starts coming up too close from behind them.
How Does A Side Mirror Work?
As you probably know, a mirror is a type of glass used to reflect objects behind you. Mirrors are usually placed in a position in front of you to see what is going on to the side and back of your car. This is so that you can see other vehicles coming up behind you without having to open your doors or take your eyes away from what is going on in front of you. A broad view is extremely helpful, especially when traveling at fast highway speeds.
Side mirrors work by projecting a reflection of the front end of your car. They are mounted on either side, usually just below the rear window, and angled slightly outwards to give you an unobstructed view when looking behind you or around corners. Mirrors magnify what's in them by approximately two times, and sometimes up to three, which is why they have a high degree of clarity to them.
Manual Folding Side View Mirrors
A manual folding side view mirror can be pulled inward or pushed outward by hand. They typically have a manual adjust for the mirror's position either by lightly pressing the mirror with your fingertips or using a joystick control from the interior.
Automatically Folding Side View Mirrors
Automatic side view mirrors do add an extra expense to the overall cost of the vehicle because they are mechanical in nature. They fold inward and outward automatically, when the vehicle is put into drive or park. Additionally, these mirrors typically have power-adjust features so that you can adjust your view from the touch of a button from the comfort of the driver's or passenger's seats.
Side View Mirrors with Camera Feature
Vehicles manufactured in the last year or two may have side or rearview mirrors that are actually cameras. Keep in mind that these cameras may not last as long as your standard mirror setup, but they add that extra convenience and wow factor. With that, they may break and stop functioning if purchased from aftermarket sources; so, buyer beware.
Why Do Car Mirrors Fold In?
Car mirrors fold in because it makes it easier to maneuver in tight spaces. Also, they fold in to be less bulky when you are parked and allow room for exiting the vehicle in tight spaces. Folded, they can be stored safely without being as conspicuous when a vehicle is parked.
You may want to store your car in a tight space at the office or at home, such as the side of your garage. There is often much less room in some neighborhoods and parking lots -- think a parking garage -- and having the ability to easily fold your mirrors in or out makes it really easy to enter and exit the vehicle safely. Especially, mounted on SUVs, folding side view mirrors give you extra space when spaces are minimal.
Are Car Mirrors Magnified?
Car mirrors are magnified to some degree, so it is important to take your time and really look in the mirror while driving. The most common mistake of using a side view mirror is not looking closely enough at what you actually see.
A driver should primarily look forward at the car in front of them and stay aware of what is happening behind on their blind spots. A driver's blind spot refers to the area of a car that is not visible in their rear-view or side mirrors. In order to know what is happening around the vehicle, it's important to constantly check those areas before making any drastic moves like changing lanes.
Are Car Mirrors Accurate?
Car mirrors are not 100% accurate. That is why the message "objects in mirror are closer than they appear" is provided on the back of vehicles. Mirror placement can also affect accuracy and visibility. For example, if you face forward while adjusting a side mirror, you're making sure your rearview mirror will be in line with its corresponding angle.
Are Sideview Mirrors Mandatory On A Vehicle?
Side mirrors are required by law to be installed on all passenger cars, but they are not mandatory for trucks and other commercial vehicles in some states. It is best to check with your local state department of motor vehicles to make sure.
Conclusion
Folding side mirrors offer you more visibility and make it easier for you to park in tight spaces. When you are in the market for your next vehicle, take your time and do your due diligence to research its features. Look for vehicles that have automatic side mirrors and other added safety benefits. You might need to physically sit in the vehicle to get the full experience, but you'll be glad you did.
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