What Do Those Tabs On Rearview Mirrors Actually Do?

Sure, rearview mirrors are cool -- but how do they actually work? How can the same piece of glass have two different amounts of reflection? Join Josh as he explains the science behind these handy devices.

Whether the topic is popcorn or particle physics, you can count on the HowStuffWorks team to explore - and explain - the everyday science in the world around us on BrainStuff.

[InterestingTed]

"Get into a parked car, preferably yours." I like the humor you add to your videos.

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[kendelion]

For so long i thought it was just there to change angles of the mirror! MIND BLOWN!!!

[theCodyReeder]

That moment when you realize that the "old time tab mirror" is newer technology than what you have in your own car.

[DoubleM]

I'm driving for almost 10 years now, and I DIDN'T EVEN KNOW THIS FEATURE EXISTS!!! I feel so dumb right now. It's just, somehow, nobody told me about this. :O

[Josafs]

"Get into a parked car Preferably Yours!"
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[dnomarsenoj]

break check, heres what works. get off the gas and gradually slow down. he will go around. then you can test your bright lights as he drives off into the darkness.

[scumkay]

He should just, host this show all the time.

[TheAwsome]

Josh! You and Chuck are awesome!! I love your podcast! Keep up the good work

[ReverendTed]

I realized that if I flipped mine into "night" mode during the day, I could see my daughter in the back seat AND the road behind me at the same time.

[audreydahlem]

This is the most useful and well put together video I have ever watched. Bravo 👏

[themailman]

Once I seen Josh on the video explaining, I automatically had liked it. I love the stuff you should know podcast.

[casketpizza]

this guys like a polite Christian Bale

[shawnfahey]

Very interesting and nice video. I learned something new. Thank You!

[Tazallax]

The moment I heard your voice, i was like, "STUFF YOU SHOULD KNOW!" Love the podcast :)

[MartchZ]

I have a rear view mirror! Unfortunately, no car attached to it...

[OnlyNoTolerance]

“A parked care preferably yours” took me out 🤣🤣🤣

[i_smoke_ghosts]

Youre so funny dude which is why i Liked subscibed and got the T shirt a long time ago. Thanx man.

[Kziap]

Before this video I honestly had no clue rear view mirrors have tabs. Going to check this out.

[gregw]

"Get into a parked car, preferably yours" lol

[Dooality]

I always wondered how those things worked!