Automobile rear view mirror

Types of the automobile rear-view mirror

The automobile rear-view mirror allows drivers to see vehicles behind them. It also reflects the car's interior. There are two main types of rear-view mirrors.

• Interior rear-view mirrors

  The interior rear-view mirror is on the windshield's inside surface. Most cars have it. Glass is used to make it. One side of the glass is coated with silver. The silver coating is rough. It bounces back light. Drivers can see what is behind the car because the silvered side reflects the light.

  These mirrors help drivers back up safely. Drivers can notice cars and people behind them using the reflection.

  These mirrors come in two types:

  Manual

  Manual interior rear-view mirrors have a lever on the bottom or back. The driver has to feel around and flip the lever to switch to night mode. The lever changes the mirror's angle. It moves the silvered surface away from the glass.

  Automatic

  Automatic interior rear-view mirrors use sensors to switch to night mode automatically. They are also called electrochromatic mirrors. They have a sensor that detects light levels. If bright light is behind the car, the sensor activates the heating element. The heating element makes the fluid between the glasses cloudy. This reduces the reflection. No lever is needed to be flipped by the driver.

• Exterior rear-view mirrors

  Every car has exterior mirrors on the sides. They are also called side mirrors. They let drivers see the sides and rear of the car.

  The exterior rear-view mirror glass is convex. It is curved outward like a bulging bubble. This shape shrinks the reflected image. It allows drivers to see more of the area beside and behind the car. A flat mirror would show less of the surrounding. A convex mirror shows a wider view of what is near the car.

  Exterior rear-view mirrors also come in two types:

  Manual

  Manual exterior rear-view mirrors are adjusted by hand. They have a knob or lever on the mirror housing. The driver has to reach outside or feel around to move the lever and change the mirror angle.

  Power

  Power exterior rear-view mirrors are controlled with buttons from inside the car. They can move up and down, left and right, to get the right view. An electric motor moves the mirror glass. Switches on the driver's side allow the driver to adjust the mirror without opening the window.

Specifications and Maintenance of Automobile Rear View Mirrors

The following are the specifications of automobile rear-view mirrors:

• Material: Generally, automobile rear-view mirrors are made using glass which has different qualities depending on the quality of the automobile rear view mirror. Some automobile rear view mirrors have reinforced glass which makes them shatterproof. Others are made using plastic like polycarbonate which is preferable because it is less likely to break when an accident occurs. Polycarbonate is also a good material for auto rear view mirrors because it is scratch-resistant.
• Size: Rear-view mirrors are available in various sizes to suit different automobiles. Besides, the size of the rear-view mirror is determined by the frame which is made using various materials including wood and plastic.
• Shape: Rear-view mirrors are available in a variety of shapes including round, square, and rectangular to suit different preferences and automobile designs.
• Night vision technology: Some rear-view mirrors have night vision technology which helps the driver see the road better at night. These rear-view mirrors use smart technology to automatically adjust the brightness.
• Auto-dimming: Auto-dimming features are found in high-quality automobile rear-view mirrors. These features sense bright lights from the rear and automatically dim the glass to ensure the driver is not blinded.
• Heating: Rear-view mirrors may be heated to automatically defrost and de-ice them which improves visibility.
• Electric and manual adjustment: Rear-view mirrors can be adjusted manually using a lever. Electric rear-view mirrors are powered by the automobile battery.

The following are the maintenance tips for automobile rear-view mirrors:

• It is important to regularly clean rear-view mirrors to maintain optimal visibility. While cleaning, use non-abrasive cleaners and soft cloths to prevent scratching the mirror.
• Automobile owners should regularly check the rear-view mirrors to ensure they are in the correct position and the glass is not damaged.
• In case the glass of the rear-view mirror is damaged, it is important to promptly replace the entire mirror to maintain visibility.
• Another important tip when maintaining rear-view mirrors is to keep the adjustments locked especially when driving off-road to ensure the position is not changed.
• It is important to protect the rear-view mirrors from damage especially during off-road driving.
• When cleaning the rear-view mirror glass, avoid using paper towels because they are abrasive and can scratch the surface.
• Additionally, avoid using strong cleaners which can damage the mirror's coating.
• Besides, don't use metallic objects to remove ice from the rear-view mirrors because they can scratch or break the glass.
• When cleaning the rear-view mirrors, don't use dirty or gritty rags because they can transfer dirt and damage the coating.

How to Choose an Automobile Rear View Mirror

Choosing a proper automobile rear view mirror for business needs requires consideration of various factors. Here are some of those factors:

• Understand the Vehicle Type

  It is important to understand the type of vehicle the mirror is intended for. This is because different vehicles have different requirements for rear-view mirrors. For instance, a truck will need a convex mirror because of its size, whereas a motorcycle will need a compact mirror.

• Legal Regulations

  Every region has rules governing the type and size of rear-view mirrors required for vehicles. Before purchasing an automobile rearview mirror, it is important to be aware of the legal requirements and ensure compliance.

• Mirror Size and Shape

  The size and shape of the rear-view mirror is an important factor to consider when choosing a proper mirror. Larger mirrors provide a wider field of vision, whereas smaller mirrors provide a more aerodynamic design. The shape of the mirror also affects visibility.

• Anti-glare Coating

  When driving, light from the sun or the headlights of other cars can cause a disturbance. Therefore, it is important to choose a rear-view mirror that has an anti-glare coating. Such a coating provides comfort and safety while driving by ensuring clear visibility.

• Electric Heating

  This is an important factor to consider when choosing an automobile rear-view mirror in cold climates. Rear-view mirrors with electric heating prevent the mirrors from fogging up or becoming frosted.

• Mirror Glass

  When choosing a rear-view mirror, it is important to consider the type of mirror glass. Rear-view mirrors with tempered glass are more durable than those with ordinary glass. Moreover, convex glass provides a wider field of view than flat glass.

• Frame and Housing

  The frame and housing of the rear-view mirrors are important factors to consider because they affect the durability and strength of the mirrors. It is advisable to choose a rear-view mirror with a housing made of strong material like ABS plastic. This is because ABS plastic is more durable and can survive harsh weather conditions.

• Ease of Installation

  Before purchasing an automobile rear-view mirror, it is important to consider the ease of installation. Some rear-view mirrors are easy to install without the need for a professional, while others are complicated and require the help of a professional to install.

• Price

  Price is a key factor to consider when choosing an automobile rear view mirror. The rear-view mirrors are available in different prices depending on the features and materials. Therefore, it is important to choose a proper rear-view mirror that is within budget but does not compromise on quality.

How to DIY and Replace

Replacing a broken rearview mirror in a car doesn't have to be a hassle. With the right tools and materials, it is possible to get the job done. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to replace the automobile rear-view mirror:

Tools and materials needed:

• New rearview mirror
• Mirror mounting adhesive or screws
• Trim removal tool
• Phillips head screwdriver
• Safety glasses
• Masking tape

Step-by-step guide:

• 1. Prepare the vehicle: Before starting the replacement process, ensure that the vehicle is parked in a well-lit area. Put on safety glasses to protect the eyes from glass shards and clear the dashboard.
• 2. Remove the old mirror: Use a trim removal tool or a screwdriver to pry off the plastic cover or trim around the mirror. Carefully avoid damaging the surrounding area. Depending on the type of rearview mirror, either unscrew it or gently pull it away from the mounting bracket. If adhesive was used during installation, a little force may be required to separate the mirror from the bracket.
• 3. Clean the mounting area: After removing the old mirror, clean the mounting area on the windshield. This ensures a strong bond with the adhesive or screws.
• 4. Prepare the new mirror: Follow the manufacturer's instructions to prepare the new rearview mirror. If it comes with a mounting bracket, install it according to the instructions.
• 5. Install the new mirror: If using adhesive, apply a small amount to the back of the mounting bracket. Press the bracket firmly onto the windshield in the desired position and hold it in place for a few seconds. If using screws, align the mounting bracket with the screw holes and secure it tightly.
• 6. Reattach the trim: Once the new rearview mirror is installed, reattach the plastic cover or trim around the mirror. Ensure it fits snugly and properly.
• 7. Test the mirror: Adjust the new rearview mirror to the desired position and test its stability. Make sure it provides a clear view of the area behind the vehicle.

Q&A

Q1: What are the differences between convex and flat automobile rear-view mirrors?

A1: Flat rear-view mirrors provide a true-to-life reflection, while convex mirrors show a wider area but make objects appear smaller.

Q2: Can I upgrade my current rear-view mirror?

A2: Yes, it's possible to replace a standard mirror with one that has features like auto-dimming, GPS, or a backup camera.

Q3: What are the best materials for automobile rear-view mirrors?

A3: Glass is standard, but acrylic can be better because it's less likely to break. Frames can be aluminum, plastic, or chrome, each offering different durability and styles.

Q4: What is the proper angle for adjusting a convex rear-view mirror?

A4: Position it so the car's side appears on the mirror's edge, allowing a glimpse of it and the lane, ensuring safe lane changes.

Q5: What is the difference between an auto-dimming mirror and a non-dimming mirror?

A5: Auto-dimming mirrors have a layer that changes color when light hits it hard, reducing glare. Non-dimming mirrors stay clear, requiring drivers to adjust themselves.