i test drove my 1st Z yesterday. i was amazed on how little i could see out of the back window. i tried to adjust the mirror, but had no luck with a better view. i was thinking maybe because mirror is positioned too high while the roof(hardtop) slopes down too fast. i was wondering if anyone else had a problem with looking out the back window while using their mirror.

 

Rear view isn't too great in the car, especially if u test drive one coming from a car with much more rear view. My last car before my Z was a '99 Maxima. I have yet to be in a car that has as much rear view as that maxima. U could see the spec of dust just behind ur rear bumper on the ground at the same time as the 747 chasing you down from a 25,000ft up.

So anyways, when I test drove my Z for the first time, I really didn't like that rear view. However, I bought my Z anyways, and I have never once regretted it. If ur used to a nicer rear view, the first few days of driving your new Z will feel awkward. But after you get used to it, you realize that the Z's rear view is just enough to do the job correctly. Who really cares to see those jumbo jets flying overhead?

It just takes time to get used to it but it's fine in the long run. If you're really concerned, then go for another test drive and configure the side mirrors properly. The side mirrors are really impressive and allow you to see A LOT.

 

You'll get used to it. If you pay attention while you drive, you should know where the cars around you are without having to rely on a large rear view.

Try driving a Lotus Esprit!

 

thanks for replying. my main concern would be when using reverse. wouldn't be too fun hitting another car or a person. also always have to keep an eye out for highway patrol,etc.

 

Well that is a valid concern. The side rear view is more of a problem, thanks to the tiny windows and B-pillars.

I just back out of spots as slowly as possible. And I let the back of the car sit out there for a few seconds so people can see me. Because if you wait to see them, you're ****ED!

Or you can back into spots.

 

You rarely drive the car in reverse. When you do, just be careful, don't spin ur car out of that driveway. All in all, when using reverse, the combination of the side mirrors, rear mirror, and the side windows are sufficient enough to allow you to back up correctly. Just use all of these in conjunction and you'll be just fine. If you are having trouble seeing out of the right side rear window, just move the passenger seat up a bit and you'll have a clean view of the right-rear of the car when backing.

As for patrols, this is how I fix that problem:

1) I usually drive faster than the mass of cars on the road. If there is a cop driving somewhere ahead of me, I will spot him before I pass him, allowing me to slow my car down to a suitable speed.

2) If a cop is stopped on the side of the road with a gun, he will be ahead of you trying to gun you. Thus, if you keep your eye on the sides of the road about a mile down, you will see him and slow your car down far before he has a chance to gun you.

3) As for the cop from behind you, speeding through traffic to catch me, you will be able to see him weave through the traffic just fine. Any unusual movement in my rear/side mirrors draws my attention. The only thing is when he is directly behind you. All you see is the grill and the front ram. But if you let a cop get directly behind you while your driving faster than everyone else without noticing him, you deserve a ticket.

I have never received a ticket, warning, at-fault or not at-fault violation as long as I have been driving, and I don't even have a radar detector. At first, you may seem a bit undecided about the rear view in this car but once again, rest assured, I have found it to do the job well.

 

I think every sports car (coupe) has this problem, not only the 350z. Like stated above, you might have to change some habits and you'll be fine.

 

the visibility is not great. but this may be a part of the problem. when i got my Z, i wasn't used to the two hinge points on the mirror. i adjusted one, but didn't know about the other point. after adjusting that, the view became a lot better.

 

You should try reversing in the ZR with the top up. The rear window is for aesthetics only. I always turn my radio down so I can hear any screaming.

 

I've used small rectangular spot mirrors for years, including my'03 touring and have no trouble at all lane changing or backing up. On lane changes I never have to even turn my head to check for my blind spot. The rear center mirror does cut off the top somewhat, but you can see plenty far back. But I could see if you're tall (6'+) you might sit to high up to see well straight back.

 

Why are you concerned with vehicles that are behind you. You have already passed their tired slow asses.

 

Backing up: Do it as slowly as possible.
Lane Changes: When shifting into the left lane, try bobbing your head towards the center of the car, then look out the rear/left window in the back. Seems to work fine for me.

As far as the position of the rearview mirror in the car, try adjusting your seat height up/down. If you can get the right height (which is probably in a lower position), you'll find your visibility improves somewhat. Still not nearly as good as a 4-door sedan, but still better than it was.

Cheers! -Mike

 

yea im getting used to it too, part of the sports car package i guess. still in my first week of having the car so i use a little more caution than normal when shifting lanes or backing up.

 

I've got a ZR. This is great advice. Thanks.

Ken

 

What 2 hinge points are you referring to?

 

The Z is a sports roadster coupe.
With that idea built-in it means there is compromised visibility. Also, the hatchback design isn't much help either.

The best position that I've found is to adjust your seat to an almost 90 degree pitch and sit as far back in your seat as possible. This will give you a more aggressive angle looking over the doors, hood, and into the rear-view.

cheers,
Allen

 

i had the same concern when i was test driving the car .. that and the really bad blind spot. after a while, i got use to it and it doesn't bother me at all anymore.

 

I believe the 06 Zs have wider mirrors so you can see better. I noticed the older models I had issues seeing but that maybe was my first experience in a Z. I've grown very accustomed to the Z's mirrors now and I feel like in a lil pod when I drive. I always try to turn my head and double check since you have blind spots in any car and DEFINETLY in the Z. Just use good judgement and you should be alright.

 

+1 on that. The ZR is scary to back up with the top up!

 

yea, i really HATE backing up my ZR w/ the top up... and its funny that so many people think the same thing about the blind spots, my old car was an 02 2dr civic, and i had no problem seeing out, and my beater is a 93 escort hatch and that thing has more windows than anything i've ever driven....heck, i had a harder time seeing out of my old 89 toyota corona! and that was a 4dr! but my next mod is a backup camera.... i just need to find a small one that will fit where i want it, and i'll just hook that up to my screen and use that.... i think thats the best option for me, although i back into spots as well so there i less chance of me hitting someone than when i back out to leave.... overall though,i've gotten used to the blind spots, and now i'm fine most of the time....haven't hit anything yet anyway.....