What is the auto on the rear view mirror?
The rearview mirror in your car is more than just a reflective surface to check for traffic behind you. Modern vehicles often come equipped with advanced features integrated into the rearview mirror, commonly referred to as the "auto" feature. This article will explore what this feature is, how it works, and why it’s beneficial for drivers.
Understanding the Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror
The "auto" feature on a rearview mirror typically refers to an auto-dimming function. This technology is designed to improve driver safety and comfort by reducing glare from headlights of vehicles behind you during nighttime driving. The mirror automatically adjusts its tint to minimize the brightness of the reflected light, ensuring better visibility and less strain on your eyes.
How Does the Auto-Dimming Feature Work?
The auto-dimming mirror uses a combination of sensors and electrochromic technology to function effectively. Here’s how it works:
- Light Sensors: The mirror is equipped with sensors that detect the intensity of light coming from behind the vehicle. If the sensors detect bright light, such as headlights, they trigger the dimming process.
- Electrochromic Layer: The mirror contains an electrochromic layer that changes its opacity when an electrical charge is applied. This layer darkens the mirror to reduce glare.
- Automatic Adjustment: The system continuously adjusts the level of dimming based on the intensity of the detected light, ensuring optimal visibility for the driver.
Benefits of the Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror
Having an auto-dimming rearview mirror in your vehicle offers several advantages:
- Enhanced Safety: By reducing glare, the mirror helps you maintain focus on the road and reduces the risk of accidents caused by temporary blindness from bright lights.
- Improved Comfort: Nighttime driving becomes less stressful as the mirror minimizes eye strain and discomfort caused by harsh light.
- Convenience: The automatic adjustment means you don’t have to manually flip the mirror to a "night mode," as was common in older vehicles.
Additional Features Found in Modern Rearview Mirrors
In addition to the auto-dimming function, many modern rearview mirrors come with other advanced features, such as:
- Integrated Compass: Displays the direction you’re heading.
- Temperature Display: Shows the outside temperature.
- Garage Door Opener: Some mirrors include buttons to control your garage door.
- Backup Camera Display: Certain mirrors double as screens for backup cameras, providing a clear view when reversing.
Conclusion
The auto-dimming feature on your rearview mirror is a small but significant innovation that enhances your driving experience. By automatically reducing glare from headlights, it ensures safer and more comfortable nighttime driving. If your vehicle doesn’t already have this feature, consider upgrading to an auto-dimming mirror to enjoy its many benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the little thing on the rear view mirror?
If you have it adjusted just right for you, and the car behind you has their high-beams on at night, blinding you with the reflected light, flipping the little switch moves the mirror perfectly so the reflection you see of what is behind you is off the surface of the glass, not the mirror behind it.
What is the switch on my rear view mirror for?
And the same reflection that you normally. See will be reflected off the glass in your mirror. That will make the reflection. Become much dimmer and drastically reduce the glare from the headlights.
What is the black thing behind the rear view mirror?
In the auto glass business it is referred to as the third visor, Just like the Visors above the driver and passenger side of the vehicle it helps block the glare of the suns ray's and cut down on UV exposure.
What is the use of auto in rear view mirror?
Auto-dimming rearview mirrors have to built-in sensors that detect glare from headlights behind you. These sensors send a charge through the mirrors, which causes the glare to turn dark, which improves your reaction time and allows you to see clearly.
What should the rear view mirror settings be?
Adjust the Rear View Mirror
Adjust it so the entire rear window is visible from the driver's seat without needing to move your head. If you stand 6 feet or taller, you may want to reposition the rear view mirror upside down.
What is the SOS button on my rear view mirror?
In the event of a minor collision, medical or other emergency, the vehicle occupant can press the SOS button conveniently located on the rearview mirror. A call center agent can send emergency assistance to the vehicle's location.
What does the auto button do on the rear view mirror?
The feature, which looks like a power button, is the modern update to an old manual feature that many drivers are unaware of. The auto-dimming design has proven to be useful when driving in the dark, as the rearview mirror adjusts to avoid headlight glare from other cars driving behind.
What is the small green light on my rear view mirror?
It's for the auto dimming mirror. If you want to see it work. Shine a flash light at the mirror in the night and you'll see it darken over the course of about 30 seconds.
What does auto mirroring mean?
Mirroring your phone to your car screen can make driving safer and more convenient. This technology lets you access apps, maps, and media from your phone on your car's display. It keeps your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road while still letting you use important features.
What is the assist button on the rear view mirror?
Vehicles equipped with the Uconnect Access system feature will contain an ASSIST button on the rear view mirror. The ASSIST button will connect you directly to one of three important Uconnect Care centers for your assistance and support. Uconnect Care – In vehicle support for Uconnect Access System, Apps, and Features.
