When you're on the road, safety should always be your number one priority, particularly when towing a trailer or another heavy load. One of the most effective ways to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road is by using high-quality tow mirrors.
Mirrors act as a sort of second set of eyes for the driver by providing a good view, with a small look of the eye, of what is happening behind the lorry without taking his eyes off the road. Knowing what sort of thing is happening behind is important and tow mirrors make sure that whatever is beyond the typical periphery of the driver's vision is made noticeable. Hence, the driver can react properly to whatever is occurring behind him and avoid any accidents.
What are tow mirrors?
Much like their name suggests, tow mirrors are special mirrors designed for vehicles that tow trailers or other heavy loads. They provide drivers with a wider field of vision, enabling them to see the ends of the trailer, cargo, and the road behind it. This increased visibility is essential not only for the driver's safety but also for the safety of the cargo and other road users.
Now, you might wonder, "Why can't I just use my vehicle's standard mirrors?" While standard mirrors are perfect for regular driving, they fall short when it comes to towing. They often don't offer the necessary field of view to safely monitor what's happening behind the fifth wheel and around your trailer. This general lack of visibility can lead to dangerous situations on the road, hence the need for tow mirrors.
High-quality tow mirrors
These mirrors offer several advantages over their standard counterparts. First, they extend further from the vehicle, giving you a better view of your trailer and the road behind. Second, they are usually larger, providing a more comprehensive view. Lastly, many high-end models come with features like power adjustment, heating elements to defrost the mirror, and integrated turn signals for improved road communication.
However, not all two mirrors are created equal. Quality matters. High-quality tow mirrors provide clearer reflections, are more durable, and come with better features. Therefore, investing in high-quality tow mirrors is a wise decision that enhances safety when towing.
When shopping for tow mirrors, consider factors such as compatibility with your vehicle, the size of the mirror, adjustability, and additional features. Some tow mirrors are universal, fitting a wide range of vehicles, while others are specific to certain makes and models. The size of the mirror impacts how much you can see, and adjustability allows you to change the mirror's angle for optimal viewing. Additional features, like integrated turn signals or heating elements, improve functionality and convenience.
Types of tow mirrors
Towing mirrors can be found in many types and varieties, from slip-on as well as snap-on accessories to outright substitutes for OEM mirrors. Since mirror styles are typically modified to keep up with vehicle upgrades, aftermarket mirrors need to also adjust and be suitable for your specific vehicle. One option is a so-called "universal mirror", but you can imagine the nightmare of designing such a mirror with so many vehicle models out there. Therefore, we have actually located past buyers for these types of mirrors and they complain that do not fit their specific vehicles well.
What mirror dimensions?
First of all, you need to identify what size aftermarket towing mirror (that's a non-OEM mirror) you require in order for the maneuver to be legal and risk-free. While each state has various laws and also policies, every one of them settles on certain fundamentals that are dictated by the size of the trailer you're pulling as well as its length.
Trailer width: Whatever the size of your truck, trailer, and/or caravan the side mirrors need to stick out sufficiently to ensure that when they're appropriately readjusted, the driver can see the entire size of each side of the trailer. To ensure you can see the side of the trailer, each side mirror requires to extend past the side of the trailer. For instance, if the trailer you're hauling is 8 feet wide, the length in between the outside side of both side mirrors has to be more than eight feet.
Trailer length: When pulling a longer than the normal trailer and/or caravan, the more difficult it will certainly be to see anything directly behind that trailer and/or caravan. Preferably, you ought to have the ability to see anything within one vehicle length behind the trailer and/or caravan rear bumper. In some cases, the best towing mirrors disappoint in these situations, yet it's the objective you ought to go for. The longer the trailer, the extra additional side mirrors will certainly have to extend in order to give you that sight behind whatever you are pulling.
Aftermarket clip-on tow mirrors or OEM look-alike tow mirrors
Some aftermarket clip-on short-term tow mirrors are created with adjustable straps and also clips to fit a large assortment of existing side mirrors on most versions of vehicles like trucks, cars, and/or SUV models. Due to how they link to your existing mirrors, aftermarket custom-made mirrors might be subject to road vibration that can distort the view. Therefore, the fit should be tight to avoid vibration, hence giving you a much clearer sight.
These mirrors are less expensive than the OEM's tow mirrors, so you'll have to do a little bit of additional research study to ensure that the ones you want will fit your vehicle.
OEM's look-alike tow mirrors are still momentary, yet they are developed to appear like they are part of the vehicle's original design. These mirrors will only attach to a handful of comparable vehicles depending on the make, model, and also year. The fit will certainly be tight so the vibration issue will not be there and provide you a far better view. These mirrors are more expensive than the aftermarket clip-on options, and you should do a bit of additional study to guarantee that the ones you want will certainly fit your vehicle.
Conclusion
If you regularly tow trailers or other heavy loads, high-quality tow mirrors are an essential investment. They provide a wider, clearer view of the road, improving safety for you and other road users. Remember, when it comes to safety on the road, every detail counts and tow mirrors are one detail you can't afford to overlook.
So, enhance your towing safety today with high-quality tow mirrors. Not only will you be investing in your safety, but you'll also be contributing to safer roads for everyone. Happy towing!
Can we help? We've done the research for you and found the Best Tow Mirrors on Amazon. Every day, we read hundreds of reviews and try the highest-rated products we have on our list.
Tow Mirrors - Reviews
Very Good
Product information
When it comes to towing mirrors, K-Source 81850 Snap-On Towing Mirrors are a top choice for many. Designed specifically for Ford F-150 pick-ups from the 2015 vehicle year onwards, these mirrors offer compatibility that ensures an effortless fit and optimum functionality. Every package comes with a pair of mirrors - one for the right-hand side and one for the left. These mirrors are not just add-ons, they are essential tools for enhanced visibility, ensuring safe towing experiences every time.
K-Source is not just any brand; it's a leading name in the vehicle mirror industry. With over 50 years of experience, K-Source has built a reputation for excellence in both the original equipment (OE) mirror industry and the replacement mirror aftermarket. This longevity and expertise translate into products that drivers can trust, knowing they're backed by decades of innovation and quality manufacturing.
What sets the K-Source 81850 Snap-On Towing Mirrors apart is their sleek design and seamless integration with the vehicle's existing structure. K-Source has engineered these mirrors to mimic the style of the factory model, ensuring they blend in while providing the added visibility needed when towing. The easy snap-on installation process makes adding these mirrors a breeze, effectively giving your vehicle a second set of eyes. With K-Source, safety and style go hand in hand, making every journey safer and more enjoyable.
A great solution for towing. Functional and perfect for the price.
Tends to magnify the view a bit too much. Doesn't fit 2021 Ford Lariat trucks.
Our Thoughts - Good value for money. Naturally, not like the OEM's mirror but it does a very good job.
Very Good
Product information
When it comes to towing, compatibility is key. If you own a 2007-2017 Toyota Tundra or a 2008-2017 Toyota Sequoia, you're in luck. The MOSTPLUS Power Heated Towing Mirrors are designed specifically for these models, ensuring an ideal fit and optimum performance. These mirrors aren't just compatible; they're designed to enhance your vehicle's functionality and safety while towing.
The features of the MOSTPLUS Towing Mirrors go beyond basic visibility. They come equipped with Sequential Turn Signal Lights, which increase your visibility to other drivers when making turns. Additionally, built-in turn lights and running lights further enhance safety, ensuring that your vehicle is seen even under poor lighting conditions. The inclusion of a spotlight and clearance light adds another layer of security, providing added illumination when needed.
An important aspect to note about the MOSTPLUS Towing Mirrors is the inclusion of an extra wire harness in the package. This harness allows for more access and a more streamlined installation process, reducing the risk of incorrect wiring and potential damage. With this addition, the setup becomes more straightforward, giving you peace of mind knowing that your mirrors are correctly installed.
It's important to mention that further modifications may be required for the MOSTPLUS Towing Mirrors. While they are designed for specific Toyota models, some adjustments might be necessary depending on the exact specifications of your vehicle. This ensures the perfect fit and maximum performance of your car with new towing mirrors.
Before purchasing, always check your vehicle's information to ensure compatibility. The MOSTPLUS Towing Mirrors are designed for specific Toyota models, and confirming this compatibility will save you time and potential headaches down the line. With the right fit, these towing mirrors can enhance your vehicle's safety, visibility, and overall towing experience.
Two colors, black and gray. They hardly vibrate. They look good.
May have small quality issues. Check current flow as it may blow fuses and the power mirror doesn't tilt. Condensation can build up.
Our Thoughts - We thought these mirrors were a bit expensive for what they are and their quality. Some small issues are due to bad quality control.
Good Value
Product information
If you own a 1988-1998 Chevy/GMC C/K 1500, 1988-2000 Chevy/GMC/K 2500/3500, 1992-1999 Chevy/GMC C/K 150/2500 Suburban/Tahoe/Yukon, or a 2000 Chevy/GMC Tahoe/Yukon with a V8 5.7L engine, having the right towing mirrors is essential for your safety and convenience. Towing mirrors are not just accessories; they are crucial tools that can significantly improve your visibility and enhance your towing experience.
One of the key features of these towing mirrors is their manual adjustment capability. The mirror face can be easily adjusted by hand to suit your
truck-specific needs. Additionally, the mirrors have a built-in spotter view mirror at the bottom. This spotter mirror, which is also manually adjustable, is designed to reduce blind spots, making it easier for you to see vehicles or objects that might otherwise be hidden from view.
Another valuable feature of these towing mirrors is their telescoping function. This allows you to easily see around the side of your trailer, making it safer to change lanes, pass other vehicles, or park. To use this feature, simply pull the mirror away from your vehicle, extending your line of sight by about four inches. Once you're done towing, the mirror can be easily retracted back into its original position.
These towing mirrors are designed to provide more visibility when towing, offering a better and wider angle of rearview. With such an enhanced field of vision, you can drive with more confidence, knowing that you have a clear view of what's behind and beside you. These mirrors are not just functional tools; they also add to the aesthetic appeal of your vehicle, making it look more robust and ready for any towing task.
When you purchase these towing mirrors, you get a pair that includes both the
left-side and right-side mirrors. To ensure your peace of mind, the mirrors come with a 1-year warranty. This means you can rely on their quality and durability, knowing that they are backed by a manufacturer's guarantee. In conclusion, these towing mirrors are a worthwhile investment for anyone who often finds themselves towing with their Chevy/GMC vehicle.
Perfect fit, and easy to install. They look good also.
Cheaply made. Some mounting hardware can be missing. Can give a distorted image.
Our Thoughts -Almost no blind spots. You can see the ground from your front tire to your rear, both sides of your truck all the way to the end of the trailer. At the moment this is a good sale.
Good
Product information
If you have a Chevy Silverado, GMC Sierra, Tahoe, Yukon, Suburban, or Avalanche, you understand the importance of having reliable towing mirrors. Specifically designed to fit models ranging from 1999-2007, these towing mirrors provide compatibility with various models including 1999-2006 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 1500, 1999-2004 Chevy Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500, and 2001-2006 Chevy Silverado 2500 HD/3500/Tahoe & GMC Sierra 2500 HD/3500/Yukon/Yukon XL Denali, among others. These mirrors are designed to enhance your vehicle’s functionality, ensuring safer towing experiences.
One key feature of these mirrors is their dual glass design that allows for manual adjustment. You can easily use your hand to adjust the mirror face to your preferred position. In addition, there's a smaller mirror located at the bottom - a built-in spotter mirror. This spotter mirror is designed to reduce blind spots, enhance your field of view, and ensure safer driving during towing. It is also manually adjustable, providing flexibility and customization to suit your needs.
Another standout feature is the telescoping function. This feature enables you to see around the side of your trailer, making it safer for you to change lanes, pass other vehicles, or park. To use this feature, all you need to do is pull the mirror away from your vehicle, extending your line of sight by approximately four inches. When you've finished your towing task, you can easily retract the mirror back to its original position. The side mirror length is 18.5” when closed and extends to 21.26” when fully extended; the side mirror size is 12.2”×7.68”.
These towing mirrors are designed to offer wider visibility, which is particularly crucial when towing. They provide a better and wider angle of rearview, giving you a clearer view of what's behind and beside you. This enhanced visibility not only makes towing safer but also makes it easier and more efficient.
In every package, you get a pair of towing mirrors that includes both the left-side and the right-side mirrors. For added peace of mind, these mirrors come with a 1-year warranty, guaranteeing their quality and durability. Investing in these towing mirrors is a smart move for anyone who often finds themselves towing with their Chevy or GMC vehicle.
Easy installation. It fits perfectly onto the door fixture and looks great once mounted.
Due to quality control, some mirror views may be distorted. May not fit GMC Sierra 1500.
Our Thoughts - Good for the value. Easy install on 2005-2007 Silverado. They look great.
Good
Product information
When towing with a 2007 Chevy GMC Silverado Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 Classic Style, a 2003-2007 Silverado Sierra 1500 HD, or even a 2003-2006 Silverado Sierra 1500 2500 HD 3500 Suburban 1500 Suburban 2500 Tahoe Yukon XL, having the right mirrors is crucial. Similarly, owners of the 2003-2004 Silverado Sierra 2500 should not overlook the importance of reliable towing mirrors. These mirrors ensure better visibility and safety during the towing task, enhancing your overall driving experience.
These towing mirrors offer a range of functions to improve your towing experience. They can be manually and telescopically extended, providing a wider field of vision. The large glass mirror is power-adjustable, allowing you to easily change its position as needed. It also features a heated defrost function and an indicator light for added convenience. The convex spotter glasses can be manually adjusted, helping to further reduce blind spots.
It's important to note that these mirrors are designed to replace original mirrors with the same exact options. If your model of the vehicle doesn't have these options, there's a possibility that these mirrors may not function properly. For instance, if your factory mirror isn't equipped with a heated face, turn signal, and puddle lamp, you cannot upgrade to a power mirror with these features.
The towing mirrors provide more visibility when towing, offering a better and wider angle of the rearview. This enhanced visibility makes towing safer and more efficient. The side mirror length measures 18.5” when closed and extends to 21.26” when fully extended. The size of the side mirror is 12.2”×7.68”, providing a large and clear field of vision.
These high-quality towing mirrors undergo strict quality control standards before leaving the factory. They have been extensively tested on various vehicles and subjected to durability checks to ensure their reliability. With these mirrors, you can be assured of no quality problems, making them a worthwhile investment for anyone who often finds themselves towing with their Chevy or GMC vehicle.
Fits perfectly work as expected and looks great.
No value for money. Could have faulty wiring. Limited adjustment. Some niggly quality control issues.
Our Thoughts - Overall, value for money seems good. Some may have some small issues.
Reasonably Good
Product information
If you own a 2015-2018 Ford F-150, having the right towing mirrors can significantly enhance your towing experience. These mirrors are not just accessories; they are essential tools designed to improve your visibility and overall safety while towing. With these mirrors, you can drive with more confidence, knowing that you have a clear view of what's behind and beside you.
These towing mirrors come equipped with several advanced features for added convenience. They are power-operated, allowing you to easily adjust them as needed. The mirrors also feature a built-in temperature sensor and a linear arrow light for better visibility. Other features include turn signal lights, puddle and clearance lights, and auxiliary lights. Furthermore, the mirrors can be manually folded and telescoped, providing flexibility and customization to suit your specific needs.
It's crucial to note that these mirrors come with a 22-pin plug and a 22-pin to 8-pin adapter. This adapter enables you to convert from a 22-pin to an 8-pin configuration. However, when using the 22-pin to 8-pin adapter, additional wiring may be necessary to fully utilize auxiliary lights, puddle lights, and other functions. This ensures that you get the most out of your towing mirrors.
These mirrors are specifically designed to work properly on vehicles with these exact options. If your vehicle does not have the options listed, there's a possibility that these mirrors may not function properly. Therefore, it's important to check whether your vehicle has these options before ordering these mirrors to avoid any potential inconvenience.
When you purchase these towing mirrors, you receive a pair that includes both the left-side and right-side mirrors. In addition, the package also includes an installation tool and a plug adapter. With these high-quality towing mirrors, you can enjoy safer and more efficient towing with your 2015-2018 Ford F-150.
They look great once all the installation is done.
Poor quality. These mirrors are less expensive but will not provide all the functions that come with the OEM mirrors.
Our Thoughts - They are cheaper than the OEM but seems like some functions have been deleted to keep the price low. They do look good.
FAQs
Can I use a camera instead of towing mirrors?
First and foremost, it's important to understand that towing mirrors serve a specific purpose. They provide a wider field of vision, allowing you to see what's happening behind and beside your vehicle. This increased visibility is crucial when maneuvering, changing lanes, or parking while towing a trailer. Towing mirrors enable you to keep a close eye on your surroundings, ensuring the safety of both yourself and other drivers on the road.
On the other hand, rearview cameras offer a different perspective. They provide a clear view of what's directly behind your vehicle, making parking and reversing easier. Rearview cameras can be a valuable tool in many situations, but they are not designed to replace towing mirrors entirely.
While rearview cameras can enhance your overall awareness, there are certain limitations to consider. Cameras can malfunction or fail, leaving you without a reliable visual aid. Additionally, cameras may not provide the same level of visibility as towing mirrors, especially when it comes to monitoring the trailer's position and movement.
It's also worth noting that regulations regarding the use of towing mirrors vary by jurisdiction. In some areas, it may be a legal requirement to have properly equipped towing mirrors when towing a trailer. Relying solely on a rearview camera could potentially put you in violation of local laws and regulations.
Do tow mirrors help with blind spots?
When it comes to towing, visibility is a crucial factor in ensuring safety on the road. One common question that often arises among drivers is, "Do tow mirrors help with blind spots?" The answer is a resounding yes. Tow mirrors are specifically designed to address this issue and significantly reduce blind spots, enhancing your overall towing experience.
Tow mirrors extend further out from your vehicle, providing a much wider field of view than standard side mirrors. They allow you to see the sides and rear of the trailer more clearly, reducing the blind spots typically caused by the size and length of the trailer. This increased visibility is invaluable when changing lanes, reversing, or maneuvering in tight spaces.
One of the benefits of tow mirrors is their ability to be adjusted to suit your specific needs. Whether you're towing a large RV or a smaller trailer, you can position these mirrors to give you the best possible view of your surroundings. Some tow mirrors even come with convex spotter mirrors, which offer an additional perspective and show the blind spots near the sides of your truck where smaller vehicles might hide.
Furthermore, advances in technology have led to the development and sale of tow mirrors with integrated Blind Spot Information Systems (BLIS). These systems use sensors to detect vehicles in your blind spots and alert you, adding an extra layer of safety. This feature can be especially useful in busy traffic or high-speed situations where it's crucial to be aware of all surrounding vehicles.
However, while tow mirrors significantly reduce blind spots, it's essential to remember that they don't eliminate them entirely. As a driver, you should always be aware of your surroundings and check all mirrors frequently. But with the help of tow mirrors, you can relax and enjoy the road, knowing that you have a much bigger and clearer view of what's behind and beside you.
Are blind spot mirrors worth it?
Blind spot mirrors are essential for your car's safety. According to CarOrbis, these mirrors are an economical way to increase your visibility on the road, helping you spot vehicles, cyclists, or pedestrians that might otherwise be hidden in your car's blind spots. They are particularly useful in situations where quick visibility is crucial, such as merging lanes or reversing.
Users on Reddit's MechanicAdvice forum also vouch for the effectiveness of blind spot mirrors. They have noted that stick-on blind spot mirrors provide much better visibility in specific situations and quicker visibility in emergencies. This improved visibility can make a significant difference, especially when navigating through heavy traffic or tight spaces.
MotorBiscuit confirms that blind spot mirrors do work, provided they are correctly placed. Despite their small size, they are effective in revealing the areas that your regular mirrors can't cover. Old Cars Weekly adds that blind spot mirrors can help you avoid accidents by enabling you to see what's going on behind you while driving, which is particularly useful when changing lanes or parking.
However, it's important to note that while blind spot mirrors come with numerous advantages, they should be used correctly to ensure safety. DriveSpark warns that aftermarket convex mirrors might promise a lot of advantages on paper, but they can be detrimental to your safety if not used correctly. Therefore, proper installation and understanding of how to use these mirrors are key to reaping their benefits.
