What towing mirrors do I need?
The right towing mirrors are the ones that fit your vehicle and give you a clear, uninterrupted view of your load and the road beside you. In most cases, drivers choose one of three routes: factory tow mirrors, aftermarket replacement tow mirrors, or clip-on/extendable mirrors. Your choice depends on your vehicle, how you tow, and how permanent you want the setup to be.
To understand what you need, consider what you’re towing (width and height of your trailer or RV), whether your vehicle already has tow mirrors, your budget, and how much you value features such as heat, power adjustment, and foldability. This guide outlines the options, how to compare them, and how to install them safely.
Assessing your towing setup
Before buying mirrors, map out the details of your tow. The width of your trailer or caravan, typical driving environments (highways vs. city streets), and local regulations about mirror visibility all influence the choice. Also note whether you want a non-permanent solution for rental or car-sharing use, or a permanent upgrade for frequent towing.
The following list outlines the main categories of towing mirrors so you can match them to your setup.
- OEM factory tow mirrors (replacement): These are designed to replace the existing mirrors on your vehicle, preserving original fit and styling while adding extended reach, often with power, heating, folding, and integrated signals.
- Aftermarket replacement tow mirrors: Similar in function to OEM options, these install in the same location but come from third-party manufacturers. They can vary in features and price, but many offer temperature control, power adjustment, and folding capabilities.
- Clip-on/strap-on universal towing mirrors: Non-permanent solutions that mount over your existing mirrors via clamps or straps. They’re inexpensive and temporary, ideal for renters or occasional towing, but can be less stable at highway speeds.
- Telescoping/extendable mirrors (manual or power): Mirrors that extend outward to increase your viewing width. These can be clip-on devices or integrated replacements and may offer manual or motorized extension.
- Mirror systems with cameras or auxiliary views: Higher-end setups that combine larger mirrors with built-in cameras or additional camera feeds to improve visibility around wide loads. These are more common on newer trucks and specialized setups.
Concluding note: Each category has distinct pros and cons—permanence, stability, feature set, and cost all factor into the best choice for your tow pattern.
How to choose the right mirrors
OEM vs aftermarket: fit, feel, and reliability
OEM factory tow mirrors offer the closest fit to your vehicle’s design, with guaranteed compatibility and often higher resale value. Aftermarket replacement mirrors can be more affordable and widely available, but verify fitment for your exact make, model, and year. Both options can provide features like power adjustment, heating, folding, and integrated signals, but you should confirm which features are included for your specific vehicle.
Mounting method and required extension
Decide whether you want a permanent upgrade or a temporary solution. Permanent replacements usually require swapping the entire mirror unit, possibly involving door panel access. Clip-on or strap-on mirrors are easy to install but add bulk and can require periodic tightening. For trailers and loads that widen your overall footprint, aim for an extension that covers the width of the load with a margin for misalignment and wind drift.
Key features to consider
Look for options that improve safety and reliability: heater/defog to keep visibility in cold or rainy conditions, power fold for tight spaces, powered tilt or memory positions for easy return to a preferred angle, and integrated turn signals for better signaling to other drivers. A convex auxiliary mirror can help reduce blind spots, and durable housings with good weather sealing are important for longevity.
Size, visibility, and safety
Ensure the mirror surface provides a clear view of your trailer and the adjacent lanes. Some drivers also prefer mirrors with a built-in blind-spot convex reflector to minimize blind spots. If you tow at highway speeds or in windy conditions, prioritize stability and mirror alignment that resists vibrating or wobbling.
Legal considerations and best practices
Mirror requirements vary by jurisdiction. Most places require drivers to have a clear view of the sides and rear of their load. If your load extends beyond the width of your vehicle, many regions expect additional or extended mirrors. Always check your local DMV or transportation authority rules and, when in doubt, opt for mirrors that provide the widest, clearest view possible.
Installation and safety tips
Proper installation ensures mirrors stay aligned and perform reliably. If you’re not confident with automotive electrical or trim work, professional installation is worth considering.
- Tools and prep: basic hand tools, trim removal tools, and, for power mirrors, a multimeter to confirm continuity. Plan for any wiring routing if the mirrors include electrical features.
- Clip-on vs replacement: Clip-on mirrors are quicker to install but can slip or vibrate; replacement mirrors require removing interior panels or the door skin but offer a sturdier fit.
- Alignment and testing: After installation, adjust the mirrors while the vehicle is parked, then verify visibility at highway speeds. Confirm there’s no contact with windows or door components, and ensure that folding mechanisms work smoothly.
- Maintenance: Keep mirror lenses clean, inspect mounting points for loosening, and test heating/defogging and electrical connections periodically.
Concluding guidance: For frequent or heavy towing, a permanent replacement or OEM-style upgrade with secure mounting and weatherproof seals typically provides the best reliability and resale value. For occasional towing, a clip-on or adjustable extendable solution can be a practical compromise.
Installation considerations by vehicle type
Different vehicle classes have distinct mounting interfaces. A pickup truck, SUV, or light-duty van may share similar mounting points with factory tow mirrors, while some older or specialty vehicles require custom adapters or different replacement housings. When possible, reference the vehicle’s service manual or manufacturer guidance to avoid misfit or warranty issues.
Maintenance and care
Regular care helps keep mirrors effective. Clean lenses to avoid glare, check for cracks or loose fittings, ensure wiring is secure and protected from moisture, and replace any mirror glass or housings that show wear. If you live in areas with temperature extremes, pre-heating or de-icing systems can prolong mirror usability and clarity.
Summary
Choosing the right towing mirrors starts with understanding your tow setup: the width of your load, your vehicle’s existing mirrors, and how permanent you want the upgrade to be. Options range from OEM factory tow mirrors and aftermarket replacement mirrors to temporary clip-on solutions and extendable models, with features like heating, power adjustment, and integrated signals varying by option. Carefully compare fitment for your exact vehicle, assess the necessary extension, weigh permanence and safety, and check local laws to ensure compliance. Proper installation and ongoing maintenance will help ensure you can see clearly and tow safely on every trip.
Bottom line
Most drivers will be well served by a dedicated towing mirror setup that matches their vehicle, extends enough to cover the width of the load, and includes essential features like heating and dependable adjustment. If you tow infrequently, a clip-on or temporary extension may suffice; for frequent or commercial towing, a robust, permanently mounted tow mirror—preferably OEM-style or trusted aftermarket replacement—offers the best combination of fit, visibility, and durability.
How to choose towing mirrors?
Convex or flat? Since all modern car mirrors are convex, it makes sense to use compatible convex towing mirrors (pictured left). The view offered by these mirrors is slightly distorted but you do benefit from a wide-angle image. Flat mirrors (pictured right) offer a smaller field of view but without distortion.
How do I know if I need towing mirrors?
It is 2200. So technically we're 50 mil wider than the camp trailer we're towing. Now if you got pulled. Over I still think they would say you need to have towing mirrors.
How many towing mirrors do I need?
Simply put, you should always fit two towing extension mirrors when towing a caravan. This is because you need to be able to see four metres to the side and 20 metres behind you, and with a passenger car and conventional caravan, this isn't possible without extension mirrors.
What is the 80 20 rule for towing?
The "80/20 rule" for towing is a guideline suggesting you should not tow a trailer with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) that exceeds 80% of your vehicle's maximum towing capacity. This provides a 20% buffer for safety, comfort, and to account for variables like extra gear, passengers, and road conditions. The primary benefits are improved safety, reduced wear and tear on the vehicle, and better control.
Why the 80/20 rule is recommended
This video explains the 80/20 towing rule and why it's important: 54sThe Northwoods RV LifeYouTube · Jan 23, 2022
- Improves safety: It helps maintain better control, especially during emergencies, on steep inclines, or in windy conditions.
- Reduces vehicle strain: Operating below the maximum limit reduces stress on your engine, brakes, and transmission, which can prolong their lifespan.
- Accounts for real-world variables: The rule provides a buffer for factors not always accounted for in the manufacturer's ratings, such as cargo, passengers, and variations in road conditions.
- Prevents overloading: It's a simple way to avoid exceeding your vehicle's limits, which can be illegal and dangerous, and could lead to breakdowns or frame damage.
How to apply the rule
- Find your vehicle's max towing capacity: Check your owner's manual or the sticker on the driver's side doorjamb for the maximum weight your vehicle is rated to tow.
- Calculate 80%: Multiply your vehicle's max towing capacity by 0.800.800.80 to find your recommended maximum trailer weight.
- Example: If your vehicle's max towing capacity is 10,00010 comma 00010,000 lbs, your 80% target is 10,000×0.80=8,00010 comma 000 cross 0.80 equals 8 comma 00010,000×0.80=8,000 lbs.
- Verify trailer weight: Ensure the trailer's GVWR is less than your calculated 80% limit.
