23/09/2020
Navigating the roads can be a complex dance, and ensuring maximum visibility is paramount to safe driving. One of the most effective, yet often overlooked, additions to any vehicle is a set of blind spot mirrors. These small but mighty accessories can dramatically improve your awareness of your surroundings, reducing the risk of accidents, particularly during lane changes or merging. But where can you actually purchase these crucial safety aids? This article will guide you through the various avenues available to buy car blind spot mirrors, ensuring you can enhance your driving experience and safety.
Understanding Blind Spot Mirrors
Before we delve into purchasing options, it’s important to understand what blind spot mirrors are and why they are so beneficial. Standard car mirrors are designed to provide a wide field of vision, but they invariably have blind spots – areas that cannot be seen directly in the mirror. These blind spots are precisely where other vehicles can hide, posing a significant risk. Blind spot mirrors are typically small, convex mirrors that are attached to the existing side mirrors. Their curved surface magnifies the reflection, effectively expanding your field of vision and eliminating those dangerous blind spots.
The benefits are clear:
- Increased Safety: Significantly reduces the risk of collisions when changing lanes or merging.
- Enhanced Visibility: Provides a wider view of your surroundings, including the 'blind' areas.
- Improved Confidence: Makes manoeuvres such as overtaking or parking feel more secure.
- Cost-Effective: A relatively inexpensive modification that offers a substantial safety upgrade.
Where to Purchase Blind Spot Mirrors
The good news is that blind spot mirrors are widely available, catering to different preferences and budgets. Here are the primary places you can look:
1. Online Retailers
The internet is undoubtedly the most convenient place to find a vast selection of blind spot mirrors. Major online marketplaces offer a dizzying array of choices, from budget-friendly options to premium brands.
Popular Online Platforms:
- Amazon: With its extensive marketplace, Amazon offers a colossal range of blind spot mirrors from countless manufacturers. You’ll find various shapes (round, oval, square), sizes, and mounting options. Customer reviews are invaluable here for gauging product quality and ease of installation.
- eBay: Similar to Amazon, eBay provides a wide selection, often with competitive pricing, including options for used or clearance items.
- Specialty Automotive Online Stores: Websites like Halfords (UK), AutoZone (US), or dedicated performance and accessory sites often have curated selections of higher-quality or brand-specific blind spot mirrors.
When shopping online, pay attention to:
- Dimensions: Ensure the mirrors will fit your existing side mirrors.
- Mounting Type: Most are adhesive-backed, but some may clip on.
- Adjustability: Some mirrors are fixed, while others can be adjusted for optimal angle.
- Material and Durability: Look for weather-resistant materials.
2. High Street Automotive Stores
For those who prefer to see a product before buying, or need them immediately, physical automotive accessory stores are an excellent option.
Key Retailers:
- Halfords (UK): A dominant force in the UK automotive aftermarket, Halfords typically stocks a good range of blind spot mirrors, often from reputable brands. Their staff can also offer advice.
- AutoZone, O'Reilly Auto Parts, Advance Auto Parts (US): These major US retailers are well-stocked with automotive accessories, including various types of blind spot mirrors.
- Independent Garages and Accessory Shops: Smaller, local auto parts stores or garages may also carry these items.
The advantage of buying in person is the ability to physically inspect the product and ask for assistance. You can also take them home immediately.
3. Supermarkets and Department Stores
Larger supermarkets and department stores with automotive sections, such as Tesco or Walmart, sometimes carry basic automotive accessories, including blind spot mirrors. While the selection might be more limited and the quality potentially more variable, they can be a convenient option if you’re already shopping there.
4. Vehicle Dealerships
While not always the most cost-effective option, official car dealerships sometimes offer branded blind spot mirrors as accessories. These are often designed to integrate seamlessly with your vehicle's existing mirrors and may be of higher quality, though typically at a premium price.
Types of Blind Spot Mirrors
The market offers several variations to suit different needs:
| Type | Description | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Convex | The most common type; a small, curved mirror that sticks onto your existing mirror. | Widely available, inexpensive, easy to install. | Can distort the reflection slightly; some find the adhesive wears out. |
| Adjustable/Pivot | Features a swivel or pivot mechanism allowing you to angle the mirror precisely. | Offers greater control over the viewing angle. | Slightly more expensive; the pivot mechanism can be a point of failure. |
| Frameless | Designed with no visible frame for a sleeker look. | Aesthetically pleasing, can offer a slightly wider viewing area. | May be less durable than framed versions. |
| Integrated/Built-in | Some modern vehicles come with blind spot monitoring systems that include integrated mirrors or warnings. | Seamless integration, often more sophisticated warnings (e.g., lights). | Not an aftermarket purchase; typically part of a higher trim level or optional package. |
Installation Tips
Installing blind spot mirrors is generally straightforward, but a few tips can ensure a secure and effective fit:
- Clean the Surface: Thoroughly clean the area on your existing side mirror where you intend to attach the blind spot mirror. Use a glass cleaner or isopropyl alcohol to remove any dirt, dust, or residue.
- Position Correctly: Most people find placing the blind spot mirror on the outer edge of the side mirror provides the best coverage. Experiment with the placement before removing the adhesive backing.
- Apply Firmly: Once positioned, press the blind spot mirror firmly onto the surface for at least 30 seconds to ensure the adhesive bonds properly.
- Adjust for Optimal View: If you have adjustable mirrors, angle the blind spot mirror to catch the areas you need to see most.
- Check Regularly: Periodically check that the mirrors are still securely attached, especially after washing the car or in extreme weather conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Will blind spot mirrors fall off easily?
Most modern blind spot mirrors use strong, weather-resistant adhesive. When installed correctly on a clean surface, they are generally very secure. However, extreme temperature changes or rough handling could potentially affect the adhesive over time.
Q2: Can I adjust the angle of my blind spot mirrors?
Many blind spot mirrors, particularly the 'pivot' or 'adjustable' types, come with a mechanism that allows you to change the angle. Standard adhesive ones are fixed once applied, so careful positioning is key.
Q3: Do blind spot mirrors affect my standard mirror view?
While they expand your view, they do so by offering a different perspective. Some users find the convex reflection slightly disorienting initially, but most adapt quickly. They are designed to complement, not replace, your main mirrors.
Q4: Are there different shapes and sizes?
Yes, you can find them in round, oval, and even square shapes, with varying diameters. The best size depends on your existing side mirror and the amount of coverage you desire.
Q5: Is it legal to use blind spot mirrors?
In most regions, using supplementary mirrors like blind spot mirrors is perfectly legal and is, in fact, encouraged as a safety measure. Always check local regulations if you have any doubts.
Conclusion
Investing in blind spot mirrors is a simple yet highly effective way to enhance your driving safety. Whether you prefer the convenience of online shopping or the tactile experience of a physical store, the options are plentiful. By understanding the types available and following proper installation techniques, you can significantly improve your situational awareness and drive with greater confidence. Don't underestimate the power of these small additions – they are a crucial component of a safer driving experience.
If you want to read more articles similar to Enhance Your Driving: Blind Spot Mirrors, you can visit the Automotive category.