What Are The Best Rear View Mirrors for Your Car in 2022?

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When it comes to car safety features, the rear view mirror is as standard as it gets, and one of your most-used tools for visibility and defensive driving. That’s why it can be very alarming to have a rear view mirror fall off, whether after an accident or possibly due to age or shoddy construction. If this happens, you might be tempted to just drive without one instead of paying to get it replaced or repaired, but you need to resist the temptation—driving without a rear view mirror is extremely dangerous.

In this article, we’ll review the importance of rear view mirrors and why you need to make sure yours is good quality. We’ll also cover the best kinds of rear view mirrors and give you our list of the best aftermarket rear view mirrors to help you choose a new one for your car. 

Why Are Rear View Mirrors So Important?

A rear view mirror is a safety feature included in every car that allows you to stay aware of your environment while you are driving.

Safety

Rear view mirrors allow you to see cars behind you, helping you keep track of dangers around you and make better driving choices. For example, if you see a car following you too closely, you can move to another lane or pull over and let them go around you. Having constant situational awareness is a key part of safe driving—circumstances can change very quickly and you may have to make very quick decisions for your own safety, so you need to know what is going on in your environment at all times. 

Larger field of view

Rear view mirrors also give you a fuller view of the entire road behind you, and therefore your driving options. Reversing and passing are much easier when you can keep an eye on anyone approaching in the lanes beside yours. And of course, the rear view mirror makes parking much easier, whether you’re backing into a spot or out of a spot, you can keep an eye on when it is safe to go and stop suddenly if you’re, for example, passed by a pedestrian. 

Types of Rear View Mirrors

If you’re not sure of the kinds of rearview mirrors, it can be harder to choose the right one for you. Let’s explore your options!

Side

Your side mirrors are placed beside the driver’s seat and front passenger’s seat on the outside of the car. A side view mirror gives you a good view of the cars coming behind you in the side lane. They also help you keep inside your own lane and aid with situational awareness when turning. However, the side mirrors do have a blind spot, the location of which differs depending on the vehicle and how they’re angled, so you need to be careful not to rely on only the side mirror. 

Overhead

Generally, when you talk about your rear view mirror, you’re talking about the overhead mirror. This is suspended above your head in front of your windshield, and can be used without having to turn your head. It allows you to see the entire rear of your car, as well as all the lanes behind you. While it does provide a wide view of the car, you may still find there’s a blind spot. As with the side mirrors, the size and location of the blind spot varies depending on the vehicle and how the mirror is angled. 

Arched

An arched or wide-angle rear view mirror has a convex shape and allows a broader view of what is behind you while driving. These mirrors are easy to install and can usually be attached with a simple adhesive. However, since the mirror is convex, it can distort the image of the road, which is something to keep in mind.

Rear View Cameras

Some rear view mirrors now come equipped with camera options, taking video from mounted cameras on the back of your car and displaying it directly in the mirror itself. The camera allows you to get a clearer look behind you while reversing or parking without having to turn your head and with a much smaller blind spot. 

Best Rear View Mirrors of 2022 – Reviews & Recommendations

1. Chicom Mirror Dash Cam 9.66”

Last update on 2023-09-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you want a rear view mirror that doubles as a front and rear camera, the Chicom is a great option. The mirror has a front camera which records through your windshield, and comes with a back camera for you to attach. You can view the camera footage across the entire mirror, so you have a clear view behind you as you reverse.

The camera also has night vision and records at a high-res 1080p, day or night. You can also keep recordings, which can make it especially useful if you get into an accident.

2. AUTO-VOX Dual Video Rear View Mirror

Last update on 2023-09-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The Auto Vox rear view mirror is one of the best electronic rear view mirrors on the market. The mirror has a 4.3 inch LCD monitor display that adjusts automatically for ambient light levels. Similarly, the rear camera will adjust for ambient light, lighting up the area behind your car as it gets harder to see. The mirror displays the rear camera image automatically as soon as you put the car in reverse, helping you pull out safely.

3. CIPA 36400 Wedge Auto-Dimming Rear View Mirror

Last update on 2023-09-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

The main feature of this mirror is that it eliminates headlight glare completely with its automatic dimming features. It also features a digital compass and temperature reading displayed on the mirror. You do have to deal with wires when installing this one, which might be harder for drivers who are not handy. 

The package should include the mirror, a power wire harness, a temperature sensor, temperature sensor wire harness, operation card, a wire tap (which may or may not be needed), and a replacement wedge button.

4. Polaris Rear View Mirror

Last update on 2023-09-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This simple convex mirror is easy to install, with a mount that can be bolted in a number of pre-designated locations in your car. Once the mounting hardware is installed, the mirror can be easily attached and then adjusted easily according to your preferences. Stay safe with a full range of vision of the road behind with this mirror.

The mirror also fits any type of vehicle and comes with a one-year warranty in case you start to experience issues with it.

5. Broadway Bw847 Rear View Mirror

Last update on 2023-09-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

One of the best panoramic rear view mirrors available, this specially-designed wide-angle mirror is compatible with many different cars but works best with a truck or larger suburban vehicle. It clips onto your existing rear view mirror, making installation very quick and easy. Since the mirror is wider than a regular mirror, it reduces blind spots due to its convex shape.

Keep in mind that this can only fit onto existing mirrors that are 2.165 inches to 3.149 inches in height.

6. TOGUARD Backup Camera

Last update on 2023-09-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This 7-inch mirror is another great option with rear and front cameras. Make sure you follow the guidelines that come with the camera. If you attach all the components correctly, you can virtually eliminate all blind spots. With the built-in G-sensor, the camera will automatically lock any footage taken during a collision to keep it from being overwritten.

7. WOLFBOX 12” Mirror Camera

Last update on 2023-09-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This ultra-wide view camera mirror minimizes your blind spots, keeping you safe. Both the front and rear cameras shoot footage in 1080P, and the front camera can record up to 1296P. The rear camera’s 6-layer glass lens enhances night vision for added visibility when driving at night. The built-in G sensor detects collisions and will begin to record automatically and lock the footage for later reference. It also comes equipped with a built-in parking monitor.

8. LeeKooLuu Backup Camera

Last update on 2023-09-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you’re looking for an easy-to-install camera, this is one of the best choices. The LeeKooLuu Backup Camera can be affixed directly to your original rear view mirror with rubber mounting straps (which are included). The license plate camera has a IP69 waterproof rating with a 150-degree viewing angle and LED lights for clear night vision. The mirror is made with anti-glare blue glass and has a 4.3” media screen where you can stream video footage. The video comes with adjustable backup guidelines to help you with rear parking. 

9. Verivue Mirrors Universal 12 Inches

Last update on 2023-09-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

This ultra wide-angle view mirror is high quality glass, eliminating glare, reflections, and light distortion. It is quite wide and expands the viewing range considerably, eliminating blind spots. The mirror is easy to install and can be clipped directly onto the rear view mirror. It also comes back with a 100% money-back guarantee in case you don’t like it and want a refund.

10. ICBEAMER 10.6 Inch Easy Clip-On Mirror

Last update on 2023-09-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

At 10.6 x 3.1 inches, this mirror is longer than most and can easily extend the size of your current rear view mirror. Another clip-on option, it offers easy installation and immediately expands your range of vision. The HD glass has a curved design and allows you to see the lanes around clearly so that you can switch lanes without hitting another car that might be in the blind spot. It also comes in several other sizes, tints, and can be purchased in either a flat or convex shape. If you’re unhappy with your purchase, the company also offers a money-back guarantee and has 24/7 customer service.

How to Choose the Best Rear View Mirror?

Before choosing your new rear view mirror, make sure you follow these tips and tricks to pick the right one.

Features

While there are many basic rear view mirrors available, many aftermarket rear view mirrors come with additional features. These features include cameras, LCD displays, the ability to connect to GPS systems, temperature readings, and compasses. These features often make mirrors more expensive, but they also add increased functionality to your rear view setup. 

Installation

Make sure you are always picking a rear view mirror that is easy to install. If you have never replaced a mirror before, you may want to consider a clip-on or adhesive option, which is considerably more beginner-friendly.

Anti-Glare

Anti-glare mirrors allow you to drive without being blinded by sunlight or the headlights of cars behind you. This is not simply annoying but can be a genuine safety and visibility issue, so it’s a good idea to always look for mirrors that have anti-glare features. 

Size

Most rear view mirrors are 8 to 12 inches wide and are rectangular in shape. Depending on the size of your vehicle, you may want to opt for something wider, but keep in mind that your image may show up in a mirror that’s particularly wide, which can be distracting. Some mirrors may also have rounded or oval corners that can give you a wider view of your back seat and the traffic conditions behind your car.

FAQ

Here are the most common questions about rear view mirrors and the answers you need.

What Size Mirror Should I Buy?

The size of the mirror you should buy depends on the size of car you drive, as well as how you use it. Some cars will require bigger mirrors than others. If you drive often or have to commute long distances on the highways, you may find a large rear view mirror useful for a clearer view of your surroundings when driving. A wider mirror will also allow you to turn your head less when switching lanes. However, wider mirrors can also be kind of unsightly and more difficult to install, so keep that in mind when choosing.

Do I Need Additional Features on My Rear View Mirror?

That’s up to you! Some drivers like to spend the extra money on features and some prefer a basic rear view mirror. If your car already has a GPS, dashcam, or LCD dashboard, you probably don’t need to get a rear view mirror with the same features.

If you don’t have a GPS in your car and think you need one, getting a rear view mirror with this feature can be an economical way to get a GPS in your car.

Is it Normal That My Rear View Mirror Turns Dark?

Some mirrors will turn dark if they have auto-dimming features. Auto-dimming mirrors usually cost a little more and they always advertise that they are auto-dimming, so you will probably know whether you have this type of mirror or not.

The mirror will automatically change shades according to the sun and brightness coming into the car windows. The darker shades will automatically change back to normal once you are in different driving conditions. If you find this feature annoys you, many auto-dimming mirrors also have the option to turn the feature off. 

Is It Okay If My Mirror Rattles?

If your mirror is rattling or shaking, the mount might not be attached to the dashboard or windshield properly. Get the mirror checked out—you might need to get some additional screws or brackets to make sure it stops rattling.

Conclusion

Rear view mirrors are an important part of any car, increasing your visibility and helping make your driving experience much safer. Many even have additional features, like LCD displays, GPS, cameras with back up assistance, and more. If your rear view camera is damaged, or if you simply want a new mirror for your car, consider one of the many fine options included in this guide. After all, you can never have too many added safety features for your driving experience! 

Best Selling Rear View Mirrors

Last update on 2023-08-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API