I posted this in alt.autos.ford.focus but got no reply.
The auto dimming mirror in my Focus is too sensitive. Even correctly adjusted dipped headlamps will significantly darken it. Can it be adjusted? I am considering partially covering the sensor with paper or something.
Graham formulated the question :
Paper would have too much of an effect, try a single layer of some of that see through coloured toffee paper wrapper type material. The colour might have some importance.
Not familiar with these things. Sounds like, as my first instructor in Liverpool, Lancashire used to say; "Too bloody clever by half"! Suggestion. Cover only part of the sensor. e.g. if you cover half of it might be half (or some percentage) less sensitive? Or cover one quarter etc.
I'm very happy with the one in my car. Something comes up behind you mirror dims, it goes away mirror undims. Much better than waggling a lever and forgetting about it or adjusting ones head position so the reflection isn't in your eyes.
Obviously when it's dimmed all you can see are the lights but that is enough to tell you there is something behind. Not that you'll be able to see anything more than that with a conventional mirror due to the glare.
Many cars for many years had a method of dimming the rear view mirror manually - usually by having the front glass semi-silvered and the main mirror behind it movable. Hence the double image you often get with this sort of device.
My current car is the first I've had with an auto dimming one and to me it works very well. Of course since it reduces headlights to a comfortable level it also reduces anything else in the mirror by the same amount. Which might mean a vehicle running on sidelights becomes invisible.
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