Ownership Basics

Improving Visibility While Driving

Whether you have perfect 20/20 vision or need a pretty hefty prescription, chances are you could be making your eyes work harder than necessary.
Ford Motor Company and the American Optometric Association (AOA) recommend a few simple things you can do to help prevent eyestrain and increase visibility while you drive.
Tips for better visibility
  • Check your windshield washer fluid frequently to insure adequate supply
  • Periodically check your wipers and replace the blades if they are split, leave streaks or skip
  • Keep your headlamps clean and in good repair – road grime can reduce visibility
  • Wash your mirrors, windshield and windows regularly, both outside and inside
  • Adjust side mirrors out to reflect more of the road and as little of the vehicle as possible
  • Reduce the brightness of the instrument panel – many people set this overly bright, which forces their eyes to overcome the glare
  • Adjust your seat so that you can see comfortably over the wheel
  • Glance frequently from the road ahead to your rear view mirror, side mirror, and instrument panel when driving
  • Avoid driving at night or in bad weather if you have difficulty seeing in low-light situations
If you wear eyeglasses or sunglasses
  • Make sure they are clean
  • Be sure to keep your prescription up to date
  • Wear the proper glasses for day and night driving
  • Be mindful when using tinted lenses – especially if your windshield is tinted
  • Tinted lenses of any kind can reduce visibility at night – never wear them for night driving
  • Choose eyeglass or sunglass frames with narrow side (temple) pieces. Wide temple pieces may block or distract your peripheral vision
Finally, the AOA recommends regular, comprehensive eye exams to maintain good eye and vision health and to help ensure optimal vision for driving. The eye tests administered at the Department of Motor Vehicles are no substitute for an eye exam from an optometrist.

Need more help?

If you have further questions, please visit AskFord.com.

SYNC® with MyFord Touch®/MyLincoln Touch™

A whole new way of driving is here. Stay connected with simple voice commands, graphic displays and touch screens.

Learn more about MyFord Touch®/MyLincoln Touch™
GET A $50 MAIL-IN REBATE WHEN YOU USE THE FORD SERVICE CREDIT CARD ON A QUALIFYING PURCHASE OF $250 OR MORE (before tax).
GET A $50 MAIL-IN REBATE WHEN YOU USE THE FORD SERVICE CREDIT CARD ON A QUALIFYING PURCHASE OF $250 OR MORE (before tax).
Expires 5/31/2013