How to Drive a Motorhome/RV - Mirror Adjustment & Lane Control

In our latest RVgeeks Driving School video, Peter, a former Safety & Training Manager for a large bus company, shows how to adjust and use RV mirrors and monitor & control your rig's lane position.
If you're not sure exactly how to manage those convex mirrors, this clear explanation will take all the mystery out of using the two mirrors in combination to protect yourself against the unseen.
Minimizing blind areas and understanding how to use all four mirrors to protect you and your RV is easy when you know how.
We'll also show you how to tell if you're keeping that big RV in your own lane, using visual cues that are right there at your disposal.
Don't miss our previous RVgeeks Driving School video covering Off-Tracking & Rear Overhang:
• How to Drive a Motorho...
10 Quick RV Tips & Tricks:
• 10 Quick RVing Tips & ...
Join us at TheRVgeeks.com for more great RVing content!
Full-Time RVers since April, 2003, we share DIY (do it yourself) RV maintenance, repair, travel, upgrade and operational tips & tricks.
Many RVers are eager to learn more about using, maintaining and caring for their rigs. We hope our experience can help others go DIY, saving time & money, plus the satisfaction of a job well done.
We're handy RVers, not professional technicians. We're happy with the techniques and products we use, but be sure to confirm that all methods and materials you use are compatible with your equipment and abilities. Regardless of what we recommend, consult a professional if you're unsure about working on your RV. Any task you perform or product you purchase based on any information we provide is strictly at your own risk.
We sometimes receive products for evaluation at no cost, and The RVgeeks participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. But our opinions are our own, you won’t pay an extra penny, and we only link to products we personally use, love and can recommend to friends with complete confidence.
Comments welcome! Thanks for watching! Don't forget to subscribe! #RVLIFE #RVDIY #RVLIVING #FULLTIMERV #RVREPAIR #RVMAINTENANCE #RVMODS #RVUPGRADES #RVTRAVEL #DIYRV #RVGEEKS

[@fantastiqueberliotz1209]

This is, without a doubt, THE best video I've watched on how to drive a motorhome and trust me, I've watched too many to count. I've never seen anyone go through all the steps, mark out the driving area, use cones, hose down the tires to illustrate how the wheels track and use a drone to film so much of it from above. You guys did a phenomenal job and I appreciate all the work you put into making this video. This merits way more than a five star rating.

[@RVgeeks]

Thank you so much for your kind words! You totally just made our day!! 😊

[@chadharding4990]

I have driven a commercial truck and own a RV for decades and this is exactly how the true professional drivers setup the mirrors. You must see a little bit of the vehicle for many reasons. Like better judging of distance and helps to drive straight when looking at what is behind you. If you start to drift you can see the change in position to the lines on the road. Then quickly look forward and adjust. Some not mentioned you can see the tilt of the vehicle, due to wind or if the road is slick. This can help in making better decisions about the driving conditions. Safe Travels.

[@ronymorrison917]

Wow! Like incredible! Made a huge difference, this should be a video playing in loop at all rv dealers and pay you for it!

[@RVgeeks]

Wow, thanks!

[@figuratibikes2857]

Seen so many videos to prepare myself for a testdrive for a large van to a new job. This what I expect from an expert in the area, very detailed and deep knowledge. Thank you so much!

[@RVgeeks]

So happy to hear we’ve been helpful. Best of luck on the new job!

[@rogerj.ullrich5058]

I love it when things are so professionally explained. I, too, am a retired professional bus driver. Turning, parking and defensive driving techniques are a huge factor in keeping a "perfect" safety record.

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks Roger. It's always great to hear from a fellow professional.

[@Eusepio1957]

This video should be shown in every driving school as a kind of learning material for motorhome drivers, and simultaneously for all road users to understand the complex of problems. (blind spot etc.) 👀 Arrivederci 😊

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks Eusepio! We concur. 😉

[@wildfan627]

came across this video five plus years later and renting an RV for the first. thanks for putting this together, super helpful. I have subscribed and am watching your other videos.

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks so much! And welcome aboard. Hope you have a blast on your first RV trip.

[@tinatorres8291]

Wow! Very informative. All drivers including those who don't have an RV need to watch.

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks Tina! We think so , too! ;-)

[@tushaye2175]

I'll say it again regardless that it's 5 YR'S on...it is still valid and very valuable information so thankyou again..☀️🙏☀️

[@cesarmcguire8482]

I’ve hauled a 45 foot toy hauler for a long time. Decided to upgrade to an RV. Thank you for the very informative videos. They’re a potential life saver!!!

[@forrestshaw255]

I can’t stop myself!!! YOU GOT THIS! You could end accidents forever if you could end aggression on the roadway!!

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks Forrest! 😊

[@davidpittman57]

This Video is Four years old, i picked up a Class A RV today and this really helped me set up my mirrors. Thank You 🙏

[@RVgeeks]

Congratulations on your new RV, David! So excited for you, and so glad to hear that our video was helpful. In case you haven’t seen it, the follow up is just as important for a new owner of a Class A. Hope you like this one too: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2awhHqnm81rsJI

[@MDC2020]

I agree outstanding video..i'm a Class A commercial driver and I must say this video would be good for ALL drivers explaining how mirrors and blind spots work and what large vehicles have to deal with.

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks so much! Means a lot to hear that from a fellow professional. :)

[@RVwithTito]

Wow. That was an outstanding video. Very thorough and you left nothing to the imagination. I love all of the synchronized camera footage. These are definitely must see videos for all RVers. Also, when behind the wheel you probably forget how long your RV really is until you see it's side view.

[@RVgeeks]

+RVwithTito Thanks so much Brian. Means so much coming from someone who knows what goes into making videos. Got your e-mail but hitting the sack before a driving day tomorrow. Will write back soon.

[@fredread9216]

Well done this is just what I needed to refresh some knowledge. Circumnavigated the country in a 38’ DP. Just test drove a DS DP. was very surprised at how much in skills and knowledge that I have forgotten in16 yrs! You guys go the extra mile( no pun intended) to put out a good instructive video. Liked the one on overhang and off tracking. Good job.

[@traveller9625]

Good job guy's. This should be mandatory watching at the dealer's before being allowed to leave the lot.

[@jerryrayhamburg3639]

YES SIR FORSURE

[@WillChil466]

@@jerryrayhamburg3639 . Along with a blue book value co.

[@jtall2671]

Been preaching proper mirror adjustment for years. Only a handful of people actually listened to me. Thanks for the video, now i have more fuel to keep preaching.

[@RVgeeks]

+John Tall Keep getting the good word out there, John!

[@danfarrell8958]

As a retired law enforcement officer I would say that was an excellent video about something most people seldom think about. Thanks.

[@ZAdobber64]

after watching literally hundred of rv'ing videos, i think that it is safe to say that this was one one the most important, informative clips that i have seen. thanks very much guys.

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks so much Robert! Very much appreciated.

[@jerryrayhamburg3639]

I'm a newbe and this helped me a lot, thank you. I WAS A TRUCK DRIVER ABOUT 35 YEARS AGO AND FORGOT HOW BIG THEY ARE. sorry for the caps.

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks for the note, Jerry! Means a lot. :)

[@DannybFlat01]

I just bought a 35 foot Greyhound Bus and this video really puts things in "perspective" My awning arm does get in the way. Thanks for the insight!

[@RVgeeks]

+dannybflat Congrats on your new bus, Danny!

[@terry3193]

I'm constantly impressed with the quality content, narration, level of detail, and edits of your videos! Extremely professional! You really should be paid by a company to develop these videos. I am not aware of another video on this topic...at least at this level of detail. I consider myself a very defensive driver and constantly "scan", not only side to side but at varying distances ahead. I'm always amazed at the number of drivers that never scan and just react or simply rely on a single flat mirror. I have 3 teen drivers and we own 9 vehicles (including the 2 motor homes) and each vehicle has a convex mirror in addition to the flat mirror. Thanks again for the awesome video on a very important topic. I'm really looking forward to your series of defensive driving videos. Take care!

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks so much Terry. Comments like yours make creating these videos worth the effort and very gratifying.

[@jackbrown8052]

Fantastic video. Great production. Lots of good points. One more point, if you're travelling with a partner hopefully your partner will monitor his/her side of the RV to help with the blind spot.

[@RVgeeks]

I don't like to depend on that, but I do always suggest using every resource at your disposal!

[@tobycarlson1640]

The mirror alignment is also an issue for most drivers in their cars, I think a lot of drivers have never learned how to properly align mirrors. Good video and very informative like we come to expect from you, Thanks

[@forrestshaw255]

Pausing again@ 2minutes 38 seconds. You are spot on about aim, because , if at this point you don’t know how tall your rig is, aiming your mirrors at airplanes coming up your 6 is pretty much worthless. You got this, I’m just bemusing at this point! GOOD VID! Keep them coming. One less accident is greatly appreciated.

[@rebeccaconaway4533]

Fantastic instructions. I drove big rigs and a 38' motorhome and trailer is going to be a challenge.

[@gsl2391]

nice job on something people might care for granted and some people need to work at.

[@sykesc2]

Outstanding video! I learned the importance of proper mirror adjustment many moons ago when I drove a school bus in high school. I will definitely be sharing this with my husband since we don't have quite the same "viewpoint" on mirror adjustment. LOL Thanks for sharing!!

[@RVgeeks]

+Catherine Sykes Thanks Catherine! Always happy to settle a good dispute! LOL

[@cbkb983]

My dad needs to see this before he comes back from AZ. Excellent info guys thanks much

[@luther7449]

I've watched this more than once, and I'll probably watch again every now and then.

[@fredhensley7840]

There are good videos, great videos, and then this.... The quality of instruction and attention to detail reveals some impressive talent and content. Won't be the least bit surprised if this particular KZbin segment ends up saving lives. Nicely done!

[@RVgeeks]

Well thanks so much, Fred. You just totally made my day. :)

[@gordoncindy9386]

Just wanted to agree with all the other comments that this is a fantastic video (as per your usual standards). We have a truck and 5th wheel but a lot of this information is applicable to that setup as well. Also liked the trip across the Port Mann bridge! :) Take care.

[@RVgeeks]

+Gordon Cindy Thanks! We love that beautiful new bridge :)

[@daviddensmore2606]

Peter & John, absolutely superb. Whether a newbie or experienced, this video is a must see. Well done, clear and concise. I'll be passing this on. Thank you.

[@RVgeeks]

+David Densmore Thanks so much, David! Very gratifying to hear. :)

[@cowboyup545]

Thanks RVgeeks I'm a firm believer in proper mirror adjustment, without it and proper knowledge of scanning you could not be a good defensive driver. Thanks again.

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks Buck! Couldn’t agree more. 😊

[@bryanmanzeck]

Yet another great must see RV tutorial video! I have no idea how you did all the camera synchronization, very impressive!

[@RVgeeks]

+Bryan Manzeck Thanks Bryan! It was a little tedious... frame by frame comparison, etc... but so happy to hear it came out okay in the end. :)

[@nancythomas9871]

This is awesome! We just bought a 28 ft motor home, and this is the thing I'm most anxious about. That and lane changing.

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks Nancy! Congrats on your new RV! Might want to check out our companion driving video about off-tracking and rear overhang: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2awhHqnm81rsJI

[@MatthewEppinette]

I've just watched this for the third or fourth time. So helpful! Thanks for all the work that went into making it. Clearly there are years of experience, hours planning, scripting, and filming, and hours and hours and hours of editing here. Thank you! We took delivery of our fist ever RV, a 35' class A gas rig (2008 model), on March 31. I've managed to get about 3,000 miles of experience so far (south Alabama to Knoxville to Southern California), and I use the knowledge and tips from this video every time I'm behind the wheel. Thanks again!

[@RVgeeks]

+Matthew Eppinette Hi Matthew, and congratulations on your first RV! I so appreciate your taking the time to write, as our driving videos are near and dear to us and it's always great to hear that they've been helpful. Thanks again and safe travels!

[@xiaomingdu]

RVgeeks == high quality videos!!

[@BIGResultsFast]

The Best Explanation and Detail Overview / Point Outs That I Have Ever Seen... Watching These Educational Videos... Bravo - Well Done and Thanks a Bunch!!!

[@RVgeeks]

+Freedom Quest Network Thanks so much. You just made our day. :)

[@BIGResultsFast]

You and Your Son... Gone with the Wynns have educated me to where now I am more serious then ever to buy a motorhome once I am totally retired, hopefully this year. Thanks for all your how-to-do blogs and videos... you are very much appreciated in more ways than one. And Yes, I am a subscriber to both and have been for some time.... :) Peace and Blessings Always!!!

[@RVgeeks]

+Freedom Quest Network Thanks again! We started RVing with the expectation we'd be on the road for 2 or 3 years. That was 13 years ago! LOL Jason & Nikki are the best. We were boondocking with them again just last week. Best wishes in your plans to start RVing when you retire. It's the greatest lifestyle ever. By the way, John is my husband, not my son. We're celebrating our 20th anniversary in a couple of months with an epic RV trip abroad. Stay tuned!

[@BIGResultsFast]

+RVgeeks Sorry, I did not know who's who when writing here. Hopefully one day I will meet you both and Nikki and Jason so I can personally thank all four of you... Until Then... Happy Anniversary When That Day Comes!!!

[@RVgeeks]

+Freedom Quest Network No worries! He's 10 years younger than I am and surely loves the fact that people think he's young enough to be my son! LOL Thanks for the good wishes. We'll look forward to meeting on the road sometime. Happy RV shopping! - Peter

[@duaneh1973]

Hope this video was useful! I've been searching all over youtube and the internet on how to adjust mirrors. This is the most well detail video ever! I've been towing a travel trailer for the last three years. Thank you very much!

[@RVgeeks]

+duaneh1973 Thanks Duane! So glad we could help.

[@paulmiller258]

Good vids the other better half of us now understands why i adjustment and look in my mirror s as you do ps I am a uk HGV driver thanks keep up the good work 👍

[@dwzipp]

Clear, thorough and very informative. Thank you for this post.

[@Weretherussos]

Great video! We found that once we got the proper positioning of our mirrors we didn't need to use the side cameras anymore. I actually find it easier to merge in the RV than the Jeep!

[@Perspectologist]

I really like this kind of video. This is awesome information. I love how clearly it is all illustrated.

[@yosemiterver1013]

Thank you for an outstanding -- and critically important -- video that should be seen by everyone driving a motorhome!

[@pathakarchana01]

This is phenomenal! Thanks for making this video.

[@Ganliker0661]

Great video, by far the most complete & helpful on the topic that we have found. Thanks!

[@marshabrockman7443]

Excellent teaching! Thanks for your informative and potentially money/life saving videos.

[@The_Smith]

Very well done, thank you for the effort you guys put in getting this important information out to us.

[@knoopsylvia]

Just love your video's! Safe travels!

[@susansost8034]

Your RV videos are absolutely the best. Thank you so much!

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks so much Susan. Great to hear. :)

[@IcculusVaxt]

I'm a brand new RV owner and your videos are fantastic. you are a wealth of information and I have not been able to find any other videos as detailed as yours. I subscribed. Great videos!

[@RVgeeks]

Congratulations on becoming a fellow RVer, Eli! And thanks so much for your very kind comment. :)

[@kemobow9670]

learn something new every video, keep them coming and thank you.

[@frankthedealmakers3146]

omg fantastic vid, every student driver should watch this, just to gain perspective on what the "other guy" is doing. I am sending this link to the school board and hopefully they will add it as a requirement to their curriculum. god bless you guys

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks so much Frank!

[@29terrywilson]

This was a very thorough explanation of the use of mirrors.

[@Burnstravels]

Outstanding information for whoever drives a bus, RV, or large vehicle, Thanks for this great information.

[@Robert-yr6dd]

Excellent video presentation. Perfect voice for narration. Thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@UntetheredBanshee]

Thank you! This was so incredibly helpful, as a future RVer and a car driver! An excellent visual of why we never pass big guys (or hopefully anyone, unless they have no idea how lanes work... far too common!) on the right! My guy is kind of terrified of driving the rig, and I know your videos will be invaluable!

[@UntetheredBanshee]

Also, as an instructional designer who makes video courses for a living, kudos! Beautiful work! :)

[@dmills7375]

Excellent video. I’ve been driving. Lass A’s for a while now, but have never really set my mirrors correctly. This is VERY helpful.

[@RVgeeks]

So great to hear we’ve been helpful!

[@shawnenser2610]

Great video guys! Thanks for taking the time in making this video. Excellent tips for making safer traveling in RV's

[@periopnurse]

Great video. Nice to get the Go-Pro perspective to enhance the principles behind the mirror adjusting method. Safe travels!

[@Assassin1959]

Excellent job guys!!!!! Next trip I’ll see if I have my horizon on the top area of my mirrors. Thanks!!!

[@ROWLESmade]

Great tips! Thanks for sharing in such a clear way. This was very good to see.

[@TravelswithYoly]

Pretty darn thorough guys ... great production level :-) Good info for anyone whether they have a motorhome or not.

[@AndyBerman]

Very impressive video! Thanks for making these driving videos.

[@jackcoughlin8943]

Good Morning Guys, another wonderful video. Great info. Thanks so much.

[@skippy3840]

Tremendous video. Now I know how to adjust my mirrors correctly

[@cristolmetro5092]

This is outstanding as a learning tool. Thank you

[@gpapink]

Gents that was FABULOUS, PROFESSIONAL, EXTREMELY HELPFUL. We are experienced 5th wheelers but new to our Tiffin. I really appreciate your video. Thanks again!!

[@RVgeeks]

It's always great to hear that we've been helpful. Thanks so much for making our day, Rob. :)

[@gregoriohb]

Great job. it's amazing such a great concepts are here for free. Thank you for you time putting this video together.

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks so much Gregório! This video is one of our personal favorite videos that we've ever made, so always great to hear that it's appreciated. :)

[@rmj5]

Outstanding video. I'm especially glad you included information on the importance of scanning. This is vital for big rigs and it's a major component of "situational awareness."

[@17025601]

Excellent video demo. My mirrors will be tweaked a little bit per your visuals. Thanks.

[@wincrasher2007]

I am so impressed with your driving videos. There just isn't info like this out there and it is so well done. Thank you!

[@RVgeeks]

Great to hear. Thank you so much for the nice comment. You just made my day. :)

[@MrscionXB]

Wow very informative video. Great Job Guys. I will apply this technique on my Rig. thanks

[@BOWLINGPHREEK]

Wow! Another great video, thanks guys.

[@RVgeeks]

+James Jake Thanks James! 😊

[@GSP02886]

Great advice, as the operator of a 40’ truck in an area with heavy traffic, I would also add that if you move your head relative to your right mirror (lean a bit forward and back) you can get a greater field of view out of the same mirror position. I find this helpful to confirm everything is good just before moving to the right. Also, put your turn signal on early, many drivers realize you may not see them and will either try to speed past you like an idiot, or will let you get over.

[@RVgeeks]

Thanks for the additional tips!

[@JohnGilmour]

Excellent video! Thanks

[@RGColbert]

Man, you guys really produce some great videos. As someone who has done a bit of video work and production I really appreciate the time you put into the picture and picture video syncing, stills and graphics. Then, the content is incredible, I know that you have a background in driving instruction for big rigs and it really comes through on this video. Much appreciated, keep up the great work! I'm sharing this with all of my RV friends for sure.

[@michaelshelton4569]

EXCELLENT Video!

[@gregmacklem]

Great demo! My class C has similar mirrors to yours and I love them. Frankly I wish my CR-V had them too though they wouldn't be fashionable. Keep up the good work.

[@Five3Design]

Wonderful video!

[@joycev1105]

AWESOME, great video, as usual! thanks. Motorcycles have a way of creeping around you at a fast pace. Hopefully, the scanning will give a heads up when they approach. Staying to the right helps also

[@rob891]

Hey RVgeeks, yet another stellar video! Clearly explained & well thought out. I've heard how large the blind area is on the right side of a large vehicle, but this video clearly illustrates that.

[@SomedaysHere]

Fellow Rvers... Again another great vid that should be seen by every Rver.... Thanks again. The life you saved may have been your own!!

[@venesstravelmedia6499]

A truly professional look at the basics. Essential viewing for newbies to the RV world (like us!).

[@stonemoney691]

Thank you mister for sharing your knowledge.

[@jesterm1460]

Awesome video !

[@FakePersonna]

Excellent video! Thank you.

[@FamilyMan1911]

Thanks guys I drive long distances for work and the more information we can get out to help people improve their driving the better. This was a great video and explanation of mirrors for large vehicles keep them coming.

[@jman1863]

You guys are pros. Great video, thanks!

[@RVgeeks]

+John Mantey Thanks so much, John. 😊

[@arielmotz3088]

Thank you so much for all you do! You are my mentors, teachers, and master Jedis. So much useful information for an eventual full-time RV life.

[@RVgeeks]

Thank you so much for the lovely comment, Ariel! You just made our day! 😊

[@plumbingstuffinoregon2471]

These videos are extremely helpful! I just got myself a couple of motorhomes to work on. Both of which are from the 70s, but the mirror adjustment is the same. One of the motorhomes actually doesn't have convex mirrors, but I'm thinking about installing some.

[@Windigrrl]

Great video!

[@bdan3459]

Great explanation !

[@Dieferdan]

Another quality video gentlemen. can definitely pick up on your previous occupation there! As a goods vehicle driver here in the UK, I cannot stress enough to other drivers how important mirror positioning and use is. Keep up the fantastic work guys!

[@markshadwell8922]

Another top notch video!! Especially for a new RVer like me. Something such as proper mirror placement and line of sight are things most don't think twice about when in a car but when you are in a large RV are crucial to driving safely. Thanks and keep those series of videos coming 👍👍👍

[@jacktracy4845]

Very nicely done.

[@patwrisley2932]

Thank you, this is the best video.

[@beckysmith1082]

Thanks for this important information!!

[@yungdinero]

Insanely good videos! Can't emphasize that enough.

[@RVgeeks]

Can't thank you enough for taking the time to write such a nice comment. Our driving videos are our favorites, and it's always good to hear they're appreciated. :)

[@BostonCobbler]

You guys are great! keep up the good work.