4 Common Mistakes to Avoid with Towing Mirrors

Whether you are towing a trailer, camper, or boat, driving around can be a bit of a problem. If you haven’t hauled around something before, you might have some trouble navigating the road and seeing behind your car.

Fortunately, there are plenty of things that you can do to make your experience better. One of them is getting a towing mirror.

When you have a towing mirror, you can easily look behind your vehicle and navigate the road with ease.

But, many people overlook the importance of properly using towing mirrors, which can lead to accidents.

If you are new to towing or you had trouble the last time, here are some common mistakes when using towing mirrors to help you drive better.

1. Not Using Towing Mirrors at All

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is not using towing mirrors when you are hauling something behind your vehicle.

The standard side mirrors you have on your vehicles are most likely not designed to provide the extra visibility needed when towing a wide or long trailer. On the other hand, towing mirrors extend outward, giving you a better view of the sides and rear of your trailer. This extra view is vital for safe lane changes and turns.

2. Choosing the Wrong Type of Mirrors

Another mistake is not getting the right type of a mirror for your vehicle. Not all towing mirrors are created equally. When you are picking out your mirror, you have to consider plenty of things first.

For instance, do you need clip-on, strap-on, or replacement mirrors? Clip-on and strap-on mirrors attach to your existing side mirrors, while replacement mirrors completely replace the original mirrors on your vehicle.

Each type has its pros and cons. You can find both types of reliable towing mirrors online easily. Clip-on and strap-on mirrors are generally cheaper and easier to install, but they might not provide as stable a view as replacement mirrors. Replacement mirrors, on the other hand, offer better stability and visibility but can be more expensive and difficult to install.

That is why you need to make sure to choose the type that best fits your needs and vehicle.

3. Improper Installation

Another problem is installing your towing mirrors. If you don’t put together the towing mirror properly, you might not have the best time out on the road.

Installing towing mirrors incorrectly can lead to poor visibility and even cause them to fall off while driving.

When you purchase towing mirrors, you need to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully during installation. For clip-on and strap-on mirrors, you need to make sure they are securely attached and adjusted to minimize vibration. On the other hand, replacement mirrors should be installed according to the vehicle’s specifications, which may require professional assistance.

4. Neglecting Regular Maintenance

Just like the other parts of your vehicle, your towing mirrors require regular maintenance to function correctly.

Over time, dirt, dust, and debris can accumulate on the mirrors, affecting your visibility. That is why you need to clean the mirrors regularly with a soft cloth and a mild cleaning solution.

Not to mention, you should check for any loose parts or damage before each trip. Tighten any loose bolts or screws and replace damaged mirrors immediately.