Scratched side sills, dented doors, and damaged rear panels are often the result of turning the steering wheel too early when exiting a narrow spot. This visual guide highlights the most effective safety rule to keep your car’s bodywork intact: “Mirrors past the corner.”
The common mistake is turning as soon as the vehicle starts moving, which causes the side of the car to swing inward and scrape against the obstacle. The correct method is to keep driving straight until your side mirrors have fully cleared the corner of the wall or the adjacent vehicle. Only once the mirrors are past that point should you begin to steer, ensuring the entire side of the car has enough clearance to exit without a single scratch.
The #1 Exit Mistake: How to Protect Your Side Sills and Doors in Tight Spaces




