Wing-Mirror-Motorway

Hello, petrol heads and fellow car geeks. Here are 10 interesting points about car wing mirrors.

 

History: The first car wing mirrors were introduced in the early 20th century, primarily as a safety feature to provide a wider rearward view for the driver.


Types of Wing Mirror Glass: There are generally three types of wing mirror glass: flat glass, convex glass, and aspheric glass. Each type offers a different field of view and perspective.


Blind Spot Elimination: Convex wing mirrors are commonly used to eliminate blind spots by providing a wider viewing angle, allowing drivers to see vehicles approaching from the side.


Power-Adjustable Wing Mirror: Many modern vehicles come equipped with power-adjustable wing mirrors, allowing drivers to control the wing mirror’s glass position electronically from inside the car.


Heated Glass: Some cars have heating terminals behind the glass to prevent fogging or icing in cold weather conditions. The heat helps to maintain a clear view for the driver.


Folding Mirrors: Folding wing mirrors are a convenient feature that allows drivers to fold the mirrors inwards when parking or passing through tight spaces, reducing the risk of damage. This can be done by with your hand, or if you car offers this feature can be done electronically from inside the car or via the key.


Indicator Lights: Some wing mirrors incorporate integrated turn signal lights. These lights flash to indicate the driver's intention to change lanes or make a turn, enhancing safety.


Auto-Dimming Mirrors: Auto-dimming wing mirrors automatically adjust the brightness of the mirror glass to reduce glare from headlights of vehicles approaching from behind, improving visibility.


Curbside Assistance: A convex section at the bottom of the passenger-side wing mirror helps drivers see the curb when parking, preventing accidental scraping or damaging the wheels.


Blind Spot Monitoring: Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) in modern vehicles often include blind spot monitoring, which uses sensors towards the rear of the vehicle to detect vehicles in the blind spot and alert the driver by showing an amber light on the wing mirror glass.


These points highlight some interesting features and developments in car wing mirrors over time, showcasing their importance in improving visibility, safety, and convenience for drivers.