Seat, mirrors and steering wheel

By the end of this topic you can

• You can adjust the seat so you reach the pedals and see over the wheel.
• You can set the head restraint correctly.
• You can angle all three mirrors to reduce blind spots.
• You can hold the steering wheel in a safe position.
• You can wear a seatbelt correctly.

What you need to know and understand

• Sit upright with your elbows slightly bent, high enough to see over the wheel and hood.
• You should reach the pedals easily without stretching.
• Set the head restraint so the back of your head is in line with its middle (Ontario's advice). The BC and Saskatchewan guides add that its top should be at least level with the top of your head.
• Set the inside mirror to show the centre of the rear window.
• Angle each side mirror so you can just see the rear edge of your own vehicle.
• Hold the wheel at 9 and 3, or 8 and 4, like a clock face. Avoid resting a hand on top of the wheel because of the airbag.
• The shoulder belt goes over your shoulder and the lap belt sits low across your hips.

Set-up order

1. Adjust the seat forward or back so you can press the brake fully with your knee slightly bent.
2. Adjust the seat back so you sit upright with a slight bend in your elbows.
3. Raise the seat if needed so you can see over the wheel and hood.
4. Set the head restraint so it sits right behind your head, with its top no lower than the top of your head.
5. Adjust the inside mirror, then the left and right mirrors.
6. Fasten your seatbelt and check that passengers have done the same.

Why mirrors are not enough

Even well-set mirrors leave blind spots at the rear left and rear right. Before changing lanes or pulling out, turn your head and look over your shoulder. To learn your car's blind spots, sit in the driver's seat while a helper walks slowly around the car, and note when they disappear from your mirrors.

Hands on the wheel

Grip the outer rim lightly with both hands at 9 and 3, or 8 and 4. If an airbag inflates, a hand on top of the wheel can be thrown back into your face. Keep your thumbs along the rim rather than hooked inside it.

Common mistakes

• Sitting too far back with straight arms, which reduces steering control.
• Leaving the head restraint too low, which raises the risk of neck injury.
• Setting side mirrors to show mostly your own car.
• Wearing the shoulder belt under your arm or behind your back.
• Adjusting the seat or mirrors while the car is moving.

Test yourself: Seat, mirrors and steering wheel

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Car Controls for Beginners in Canada