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BGE Mirror Setting



Using the New BGE Mirror Setting

The BGE (Blind Glare Elimination) setting requires turning the field of view of each outside mirror outward by about 15 degrees from the blind zone setting.  For the drivers side mirror, this can be done by placing your head against the side window and then setting the mirror to just see the side of the car.  Do the same with the passenger’s side mirror, but position your head at the middle of the car.  You should next check to see that the blind zones are truly eliminated.  From the normal driving position, watch a car as it passes you.  It should appear in the outside mirror before it leaves the inside mirror, and it should appear in your peripheral vision before leaving the outside mirror.  This is your proof that the blind zones have been eliminated and that your mirrors are correctly set.


When changing lanes BGE setting, you must first look in the inside mirror for vehicles approaching from the rear, then glance at the outside mirror to see if a vehicle is in the blind zone.  A good rule to follow when changing lanes is that if you can see the entire front of a vehicle in the inside mirror, and that vehicle is not gaining on you, it is safe to change lanes provided there is no vehicle in the blind zone.  This is similar to the rule used when passing, which says, wait until you see the front of the car you just passed before changing lanes.


The blind zone setting and BGE setting are both useful.  For most driving situations the BGE setting is best.  Occasionally, the blind zone setting is required. This will be true when the rear window is blocked by cargo, or if you are in heavy stop and go traffic and a car on your bumper blocks your rear view to adjacent lanes.

When driving with the BGE setting, most drivers initially feel a sense of confusion with the outside mirrors.  You are not sure where they are pointed, you miss not seeing the sides of the car, and you do not know how to interpret what you see.  Don’t give up.  The confusion will go away, especially if you do a few simple things.

 

First, understand that the inside mirror is truly your primary mirror.  THE INSIDE MIRROR SHOWS YOU EVERYTHING EXCEPT THE BLIND ZONES. 

 

Second, do not look at the outside mirrors except to see if a vehicle is in the blind zone.  THE OUTSIDE MIRRORS SHOW YOU ONLY THE BLIND ZONE.

 

Third, if you are in doubt about the position of the driver’s side mirror, move your head to the side window and check to see that the side of the car is just visible.  For the passenger’s side mirror, move your head to the middle.

 

It will take time to overcome your precious habits and accept the new way but it will happen. Perseverance will reward you with a new dimension in driving which will enhance your safety and comfort. 

 

By George Platzer, Consulting engineer and SAE member