Hey guys! Are you tired of those pesky blind spots while driving? Well, you're in luck! Installing blind spot mirrors is a super easy and effective way to enhance your safety on the road. These little mirrors provide a wider field of view, helping you spot vehicles that might be lurking in your blind spots. No more surprise lane changes or near misses! In this guide, I'm going to walk you through the simple steps to install blind spot mirrors on your car like a pro. Trust me, it's a quick and worthwhile upgrade that can make a big difference. So, let's get started and say goodbye to those annoying blind spots!

What You'll Need

Before we dive into the installation process, let's gather all the necessary materials. Don't worry, you probably already have most of these items lying around. Here's a quick checklist:

• Blind spot mirrors: Obviously, you'll need a set of blind spot mirrors. You can find these at any auto parts store or online retailer. Make sure to choose a size and shape that you like and that fits your car's side mirrors.
• Rubbing alcohol or glass cleaner: This is essential for cleaning the surface of your side mirrors before applying the blind spot mirrors. A clean surface ensures a strong and long-lasting bond.
• Clean microfiber cloth: Use this to wipe down the side mirrors after cleaning them with rubbing alcohol or glass cleaner. Microfiber cloths are great because they don't leave any lint or streaks.
• Measuring tape or ruler (optional): If you want to be precise with the placement of your blind spot mirrors, a measuring tape or ruler can come in handy.
• Heat gun or hair dryer (optional): In colder weather, warming up the adhesive on the blind spot mirrors can help them stick better. A heat gun or hair dryer can be used for this purpose, but be careful not to overheat the mirrors or the side mirrors.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

Alright, now that we have all the materials ready, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of installing those blind spot mirrors. Follow these simple steps, and you'll be seeing a whole lot more in no time!

Step 1: Clean the Side Mirrors

This is the most crucial step for ensuring a strong and secure bond between the blind spot mirrors and your side mirrors. Grab your rubbing alcohol or glass cleaner and spray it generously on the surface of your side mirrors. Then, use your clean microfiber cloth to wipe away any dirt, grime, or residue. Make sure the surface is completely clean and dry before moving on to the next step. Remember, a clean surface is key to a successful installation!

• Why is cleaning so important? Think of it like this: you wouldn't want to stick a Band-Aid on a dirty wound, would you? The same principle applies here. Dirt and grime can prevent the adhesive on the blind spot mirrors from properly bonding with the side mirrors, which can lead to them falling off later.
• Pro Tip: For stubborn dirt or residue, you can use a razor blade to gently scrape it off the surface of the side mirrors. Just be careful not to scratch the glass.

Step 2: Determine the Placement

Now comes the fun part: deciding where to stick those blind spot mirrors! There's no one-size-fits-all answer here; it really depends on your personal preference and the shape of your side mirrors. However, here are a few general guidelines to keep in mind:

• Position: Most people prefer to place their blind spot mirrors in the upper or lower corner of their side mirrors, away from the main viewing area. This allows you to see both the regular view and the blind spot view without having to move your head too much.
• Angle: Experiment with different angles to find the one that gives you the best coverage of your blind spots. You want to be able to see vehicles approaching from the side without any distortion.
• Visibility: Make sure the blind spot mirrors don't obstruct your view of the road or any important objects, such as traffic lights or pedestrians.

Some prefer the outer, lower corner to maximize the view of the adjacent lane. Others like the upper inside corner for a less obstructed main mirror view. Play around with different spots before sticking them on!

Step 3: Peel and Stick

Alright, you've cleaned the side mirrors and figured out the perfect placement. Now it's time to peel off the adhesive backing from the blind spot mirrors and stick them onto the side mirrors. Before you stick them, make sure you are happy with the positioning. Once they are on, they are on!

• Take your time: Don't rush this step. Make sure the blind spot mirrors are aligned exactly where you want them before pressing them down.
• Apply pressure: Once you're happy with the placement, press firmly on the blind spot mirrors for about 30 seconds to ensure a strong bond. The adhesive needs good contact to stick properly. Applying steady pressure helps!
• Warm it up (optional): If it's cold outside, you can use a heat gun or hair dryer to warm up the adhesive before sticking the blind spot mirrors on. This will help them adhere better to the side mirrors.

Step 4: Test and Adjust

Congratulations, you've successfully installed your blind spot mirrors! But before you hit the road, it's important to test them out and make any necessary adjustments. Hop in your car and take it for a spin around the block.

• Check your blind spots: As you're driving, pay attention to your blind spots and see how well the blind spot mirrors are covering them. Can you see vehicles approaching from the side? Are there any areas that are still not visible?
• Adjust the angle: If you're not getting the coverage you need, you can try adjusting the angle of the blind spot mirrors. Some models allow you to swivel or tilt them to fine-tune the view.
• Get used to them: It may take a few days to get used to using blind spot mirrors. Don't be discouraged if you're not immediately comfortable with them. Just keep practicing, and soon they'll become second nature.

Tips and Tricks for Blind Spot Mirror Success

To ensure you get the most out of your blind spot mirrors, here are a few extra tips and tricks to keep in mind:

• Choose the right size and shape: Blind spot mirrors come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so it's important to choose the ones that are best suited for your car and your personal preferences. Some people prefer small, round mirrors, while others prefer larger, rectangular ones. Experiment with different styles to see what works best for you.
• Clean them regularly: Just like your side mirrors, blind spot mirrors can get dirty over time. Be sure to clean them regularly with glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to maintain a clear view.
• Consider heated mirrors: If you live in a cold climate, you may want to consider getting heated blind spot mirrors. These mirrors have a built-in heating element that melts away ice and snow, ensuring a clear view even in the worst weather conditions.
• Use them in conjunction with proper mirror adjustment: Blind spot mirrors are a great addition to your car, but they're not a substitute for proper mirror adjustment. Make sure your side mirrors are adjusted correctly to minimize blind spots before installing blind spot mirrors.

Safety First!

While blind spot mirrors are an excellent tool for improving visibility, they are not a substitute for safe driving practices. Always check your blind spots by turning your head and looking before changing lanes or making turns. And remember to always drive defensively and be aware of your surroundings.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! Installing blind spot mirrors is a quick, easy, and affordable way to improve your driving safety. By following these simple steps, you can say goodbye to those annoying blind spots and enjoy a wider field of view. So what are you waiting for? Get yourself a set of blind spot mirrors and start enjoying safer driving today! Drive safe, guys!