Mirror - Side View at 1A Auto

What is a side rear-view mirror and where is it located?

Your vehicle’s side-view mirror plays a major role in the appearance and safety of your car or truck. Side mirrors give you the ability to look and see what is behind and beside your vehicle so you know what is going on around you while driving. Properly functioning side-view mirrors also allow you to see in those blind spot areas so that you can make turns, drive in reverse, see if someone is trying to pass you, see if someone is in the lane next to you so that you can safely pass, and more. Side-view mirrors are located on the vehicle’s exterior. On most vehicles today, they are usually mounted to the driver and passenger side doors, but on a few models they are mounted to the fenders.

There are two basic types of side-view mirrors: power and manual, but many options exist under each classification. These include but are not limited to direct bolt-on manual mirrors, remote operated manual mirrors, folding mirrors, heated mirrors, turn signal mirrors, power mirrors with memory, and much more. If you have a truck, towing mirrors—either as a replacement if they came with them already installed or as an upgrade—are also available with various options as well. Telescoping mirrors are also an option for trucks with towing mirrors to provide extra vision when towing.

How do I know if my side rear-view mirror needs to be replaced?

While usually replaced because of an accident or bad encounter with a mailbox, side-view mirrors contain a variety of features that can go bad overtime. For example, motors for adjustment, glass heating elements, and lighting can wear out from use and exposure to the elements. If you have a damaged or malfunctioning mirror, then you will need a replacement immediately. Plain and simple, operating a car or truck with a broken side view mirror is a danger not only to yourself, but it puts the safety of those around you at risk as well. In addition, a broken or damaged mirror will not only fail most state safety inspections, but it is also an eye sore and will lower the resale value of your vehicle.

For an in-depth explanation of the different styles of side view mirrors that are available, upgrade options, and other facts, check out our side mirror replacement guide for cars and trucks.

Can I replace the side rear-view mirror myself?

The repair typically requires a ratchet and socket and may involve the removal of the door panel or a small triangular trim piece found at the base of the mirror. It’s a good idea to obtain a copy of the dealer service manual procedure or view an online guide or instructional video. The removal process usually involves the removal of a few bolts holding the mirror to the door and the disconnection of a mirror wiring harness. Replacing the side rear-view mirror is a doable job for any novice do-it-yourselfer and is just a reverse of the process.

Need a side view mirror replacement?

At 1A Auto, we know what a hassle and danger a broken car or truck side mirror is. If you need an aftermarket side-view mirror replacement for either the passenger or driver side, or both, then you have come to the right place. Our selection of manual and power mirror assemblies are the best new aftermarket replacements on the market, typically lasting 2-3 times longer on average than OEM mirrors.

See More: http://www.1aauto.com/side-view-mirrors/c/23