Enhance Your Visibility with Aftermarket Side Mirrors
Do you often feel the need to double-check your side mirrors before making a move? Well, rightfully so! The roads can be quite dangerous if you don’t make an informed decision. There are always vehicles coming from all sides. Thus, you should consider looking at the side-view mirror before turning, changing lanes, reversing, etc.
But what if your side mirror has been damaged? Or, if it doesn’t provide flexibility and rotatability? Then, you should consider going for aftermarket side mirrors. This guide will explore what they are and how they can help you!
Why Aftermarket Side Mirrors Matter?
Side mirrors aren’t just accessories. They’re essential components contributing to safe driving practices. They provide drivers with a clear view of adjacent lanes, helping to prevent accidents and navigate through traffic safely.
Aftermarket side mirrors are a versatile solution for drivers seeking enhanced functionality and customization. Unlike OEM mirrors that come standard with the vehicle, aftermarket options offer a range of features. They are tailored to individual preferences and needs.
Not only do these mirrors look sleek, but they elevate your driving experience. Furthermore, the modern ones come equipped with high-end technological features. That means you can maximize your driving efficiency using these mirrors.
Types of Aftermarket Side Mirrors
Are you looking to buy aftermarket side mirrors? Then, you should get familiar with their many types. Let’s look at them one by one:
1. Manual Aftermarket Side Mirrors
Manual aftermarket side mirrors are the traditional, mechanically-operated mirrors. They require manual adjustment from inside the vehicle. Despite their simplicity, they remain popular due to their reliability and cost-effectiveness.
These mirrors typically feature a manual adjustment lever or knob inside the vehicle. It allows drivers to adjust the mirror angle to their preference. However, modern drivers with advanced vehicles might find manual mirrors lacking technological innovation.
2. Power-Adjustable Aftermarket Side Mirrors
Power-adjustable aftermarket side mirrors offer added convenience and flexibility than manual ones. These mirrors can be adjusted electronically from inside the vehicle using a control panel. Even better, some models have a simple switch, making it easy to customize. They provide precise control over the mirror angle, allowing drivers to customize their field of view. Also, you don’t need to put any manual effort into it.
Power-adjustable mirrors are particularly beneficial for drivers who frequently share their vehicles with others. That’s because they can easily readjust the mirrors to their preferred position with the touch of a button.
3. Heated Aftermarket Side Mirrors
Heated aftermarket side mirrors feature built-in heating elements. That means they are resistant to frost, ice, fog, and other outdoor conditions. These mirrors typically include a heating function. Usually, you have to activate this heating option manually. In some models, it turns on automatically with the vehicle’s defroster.
Heated side mirrors enhance safety by ensuring clear visibility even in adverse weather conditions. They eliminate the need for frequent cleaning and defrosting. They are useful for drivers living in regions with harsh winters or frequent foggy weather.
4. Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) Aftermarket Side Mirrors
The Blind spot monitoring (BSM) aftermarket side mirrors enhance driver awareness and safety on the road. These mirrors are equipped with sensors that detect vehicles in the driver’s blind spots. Then, they trigger visual or audible alerts to notify the driver.
Some BSM mirrors may also feature integrated indicators or lights that illuminate when a vehicle is detected in the blind spot. BSM aftermarket side mirrors help drivers make safer lane change maneuvers and reduce the risk of collisions.
5. Auto-Dimming Aftermarket Side Mirrors
Auto-dimming aftermarket side mirrors feature electrochromic glass. It automatically adjusts its tint in response to ambient light conditions. These mirrors reduce glare from the headlights of vehicles behind. As a result, they improve night visibility and reduce eye strain for the driver.
Auto-dimming mirrors help maintain a clear view of the road ahead by minimizing distracting glare. They are especially helpful during nighttime driving or in low-light conditions.
Benefits of Using Aftermarket Side Mirrors
Here are some advantages of installing and using aftermarket side mirrors in your vehicle:
- Enhanced Customization: Aftermarket side mirrors offer a wide range of customization options. It allows drivers to choose mirrors that suit their specific preferences and style.
- Advanced Features: Unlike OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) mirrors, aftermarket options often come equipped with advanced features. That includes blind spot monitoring, auto-dimming, heating, and power adjustability, enhancing overall safety and convenience.
- Improved Visibility: Upgrading to side mirrors can significantly improve visibility on the road. They reduce blind spots and enhance awareness of surrounding traffic, pedestrians, and obstacles.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Aftermarket mirrors are often more cost-effective than OEM replacements. They offer comparable quality and functionality at a lower price point. It allows drivers to enjoy the benefits of upgraded mirrors without breaking the bank.
- Compatibility: Aftermarket mirrors are designed to be compatible with a wide range of vehicles. It provides drivers with a greater selection of options to choose from compared to OEM mirrors.
- Easy Installation: Many aftermarket mirrors are designed for easy installation. They allow drivers to upgrade their mirrors without the need for professional assistance. It saves both time and money, making it a convenient option for DIY enthusiasts.
- Improved Aesthetics: Besides their enhanced functionality and safety, aftermarket mirrors can also improve the aesthetics of a vehicle. They are available in various styles, finishes, and designs.
- Aftermarket Support: Many aftermarket manufacturers offer excellent customer support and warranty coverage. It provides drivers with peace of mind and assurance in the quality and reliability of their products.
- Value Retention: Upgrading to high-quality aftermarket mirrors can potentially increase the resale value of a vehicle. Generally, buyers perceive the added features and enhancements as desirable and valuable.
Conclusion
Remember that the aftermarket side mirrors are a solution to your vehicle’s blind spot problem. They are the old-school advanced driving assistants that often get overlooked. You can utilize their potential by installing one in your vehicle today!
