Interior rear view mirror

Types of Interior Rear View Mirror

The interior rearview mirror is one of the most important car accessories. It gives drivers a clear view of the road behind. It is a key part of car safety and helps with driving. But do people know there are different kinds of these mirrors? Yes, there are. Let's look at the different types of interior rearview mirrors.

• Auto-dimming rearview mirror: The auto-dimming rearview mirror has a special feature. It can tell when light from the back is too bright. This mirror has two glasses. One has a special coating on it, and the other glass is filled with water. When an object hits the back glass, it makes the water fuzzy. The light from the back is too bright; it reflects off the front glass and shines on the driver’s face. But if the back glass is hit, the water gets foamy. Then, the front glass's light reflection will change and block the shining light.
• Electrochromatic rearview mirror: The electrochromatic rearview mirror is different from the auto-dimming mirror. It also has two glasses. But the glass facing the car’s cabin has a special coating. When the back light is too bright, it can be changed to dark using a switch in the car. This allows drivers to control how much light comes through the mirror.
• Curved rearview mirror: The curved rearview mirror is also different. Its glass is not flat. It is bent a little. This lets drivers see more of what is behind them. A curved rearview mirror can make the picture smaller. Therefore, it can show more of the back space. But it will make the objects in the back appear smaller than they are.
• Digital rearview mirror: The digital rearview mirror is a high-tech choice. Instead of just glass, it has a screen that shows what a camera sees. This can help people see better, even if something is in the way, like passengers or luggage. The digital rearview mirror can be changed. The driver can choose to see just the back camera picture or the sides, too, if needed.
• Interior auto dimming rearview mirror with Homelink: This type of mirror has the auto-dimming feature, like the one above. It also has buttons built in that can link to things like a garage door opener. So, no remote control is needed. Just push the buttons to open or close the garage door.

Specifications and maintenance of interior rear-view mirrors

The interior rear view mirror has several specifications that affect their performance, as discussed below.

• Glass quality

  The glass used in rear-view mirrors profoundly affects visibility. Mirrors made with high-quality glass offer a clear and undistorted view of the surroundings. Additionally, the glass should have a coating that protects it from scratches and other damage. Interior rear-view mirrors with polarized glasses minimize glare, further enhancing visibility for drivers.

• Size and shape

  The shape and size of the interior rear-view mirrors are determined by the vehicle design and available space. Nonetheless, the mirrors should be large enough to provide a comprehensive view of the area behind the car without being too big and obstructing the driver's view of the road ahead. The mirrors can be convex or flat, although convex mirrors offer a broader view.

• Mounting option

  The rear-view mirrors are mounted on the windshield using adhesive, a bracket, or a clip. The mounting option should be easy to install and ensure that the mirror is stable.

• Auto-dimming

  The auto-dimming feature is becoming a standard specification in rear-view mirrors. The interior rear-view mirror automatically dims when it detects light from the headlights of the vehicles behind, thus minimizing glare. The auto-dimming feature enhances driving at night or in low-light conditions.

• Integrated technology

  Some rear-view mirrors have additional technologies, such as GPS, Bluetooth, and a backup camera display. The backup camera display has become a standard feature in high-end vehicles. The GPS and Bluetooth features enable hands-free calls and navigation, thus enhancing convenience and safety for the drivers.

It is important to maintain the interior rear-view mirrors to ensure they function optimally. Here are some of the rear-view mirror maintenance tips.

• Regular cleaning: It is important to clean the rear-view mirrors regularly to maintain visibility. Clean the mirrors with a glass cleaner and a soft cloth. Using abrasive materials may scratch the mirror's surface.
• Check the mounting: Inspect the rear-view mirrors regularly to ensure they are stable and do not vibrate or shake. A loose mirror will not provide a clear view of the rear.
• Inspect the glass: Regularly inspect the glass for scratches or cracks. The damage reduces visibility and should be fixed immediately. In case of damage, the entire mirror will need to be replaced.
• Auto-dimming feature: For interior rear-view mirrors with the auto-dimming feature, ensure the wire is connected and functioning. Test the feature regularly to ensure it is working.

How to Choose Interior Rear View Mirror

When buying car interior mirrors for resale, rear-view mirrors will most likely be the priority. Here are some tips for selecting interior rear-view mirrors that consumers will want to purchase.

• Know the Vehicle:

  Understanding the type of car the mirror will be used in is important. People with small cars prefer compact mirrors, while those with larger vehicles need mirrors with a wider view. It is also important to consider the mounting options available in the vehicle. Will the mirror need adhesive, a clip, or a bracket for installation?

• Features:

  Features are an important aspect of rear-view mirrors. Buyers might want auto-dimming mirrors that reduce glare from behind. They may ask for mirrors with built-in displays for GPS or a backup camera. Convex mirrors provide a wider view, which is great for larger vehicles. Some interior rear-view mirrors also have a blue tint that helps reduce glare.

• Quality and Durability:

  Quality should be a priority when sourcing for car parts. Buyers will want rear-view mirrors that are shatterproof and scratch-resistant. These features increase the lifespan of the mirrors and give buyers value for their money. It is also important to consider the frame material. Aluminum and ABS plastic are great options because they are sturdy and long-lasting.

• Style and Size:

  Style and size are important factors to consider when buying interior rearview mirrors. Different cars have various mirror sizes. It is advisable to source for a variety of sizes and styles so that the stock can cater to different clients. The shape and design of the mirror should also be considered. Some people prefer a traditional look, while others want a modern-style mirror.

• Price:

  Interior rearview mirrors come in a variety of price points. It is advisable to source for a variety of mirrors so that the stock can cater to different clients. It is also important to ensure the profit margin is reasonable.

• Brand Reputation:

  Brands with a good reputation are likely to give buyers value for their money. Therefore, when sourcing for interior rearview mirrors, it is advisable to look for reputable brands. One of the best ways to establish a brand's reputation is by reading online reviews.

• Installation:

  It is advisable to buy interior rearview mirrors that are easy to install. This saves the car owner time and money. Some interior rearview mirrors come with installation instructions that can help the end user install the mirror successfully.

How to DIY and Replace Interior Rear View Mirror

Below are the steps for replacing the interior mirror.

• Prepare for Replacement

  Get the new mirror ready. Switch off the car to avoid any electrical issues or short circuits. Find the right tools needed for the job, like screwdrivers.

• Remove the Old Mirror

  Carefully take off any plastic cover or trim around the mirror. This may be held on with clips or adhesive. If the old mirror is glued on, use a plastic trim tool or putty knife to gently pry it off the windshield. Be careful not to break the glass. If the mirror is held on with screws, use a screwdriver to remove the screws. Hold the mirror with one hand while unscrewing with the other hand to prevent it from falling.

• Prepare the Mounting Surface

  Clean the area where the new mirror will be attached. If the old mirror was glued on, use adhesive remover to clean off any leftover glue. Wipe the windshield with isopropyl alcohol to ensure a good bond with the new adhesive.

• Install the New Mirror

  If the new mirror should be stuck on, apply a thin layer of adhesive to its base. Press it firmly against the windshield in the correct spot. Hold it there for a few minutes until the glue sets. If the new mirror should be mounted on a bracket, align it with the bracket and tighten the screws. Replace any plastic cover or trim that was removed earlier. Make sure everything is snapped or screwed back on securely.

• Test the New Mirror

  Adjust the new mirror so it points where it should. Get inside the car and ensure the mirror gives a clear view of what it should. Take a test drive to confirm it stays in place and works properly.

Q and A

Q1. How are rear-view mirrors made?

A1. Glass is the main component of rear-view mirrors. The glass's reflective coating is the key step in making rear-view mirrors. This coating is what gives the mirror its reflective quality. Various materials and techniques are used to create the coating, depending on the mirror type. For example, the coating on a traditional rear view mirror may be silver or aluminum. In contrast, a rear view mirror with auto-dimming capabilities may use a coating that includes a conductive material like tin oxide.

Another important step in making rear view mirrors is the shaping of the glass. The glass is cut and shaped into the desired size and form for the mirror frame. This shaping is done using various tools and techniques, such as grinding and molding.

The glass is then mounted in a frame or housing, which is an important step in the rear-view mirror manufacturing process. This mounting helps protect the glass and provides a way to attach the mirror to the vehicle.

Q2. What are the materials used in auto-dimming rear-view mirrors?

A2. Besides glass, several other materials are used in auto-dimming rear view mirrors. One important component is the electrochromic material. This material is responsible for the mirror's ability to change color in response to light. Various materials can be used as electrochromic materials, including metal oxides and polymers.

Another important component of auto-dimming rear view mirrors is the conductive material. This material is used to create the electrical connection that allows the mirror to be controlled by a sensor. Commonly used conductive materials in auto-dimming mirrors include metals like silver and copper.

The sensor itself is also an important component of auto-dimming rear view mirrors. Generally, photo sensors are used to detect the level of light in the environment. Various materials can be used to create these sensors, including silicon and gallium arsenide.

Q3. How do interior rear-view mirrors work?

A3. Interior rear-view mirrors are an important safety feature in vehicles. They allow drivers to see the area behind their vehicles while driving. The basic function of all interior rear-view mirrors is to provide visibility back. However, different types of interior rear-view mirrors achieve this function in different ways. For example, internal electrochromic mirrors can automatically adjust the level of reflectivity based on the light level. They reduce glare from the light by becoming less reflective in bright light or when a car is behind. Internal auto-dimming mirrors have sensors that detect the level of light in the environment and automatically adjust the mirror's reflectivity accordingly.

Q4. Can rear-view mirrors be repaired?

A4. It is possible to repair the rear-view mirrors. However, this is often only a temporary solution. Various types of rear-view mirrors can be repaired if they are broken or damaged. For example, if the glass is cracked, it can sometimes be replaced without replacing the entire mirror. Other mirror components, such as the housing or the auto-dimming system, can also be repaired.

It is important to note that while repair is possible, replacement may be necessary in some cases. For example, if the damage is too extensive or the mirror's auto-dimming system is not working properly after a repair, a replacement may be the best solution.