How to Use Trailer Tow Mirrors

September 2, 2022

Whether you're towing a trailer for the first time or you already tow like a pro, at one point you've probably asked yourself, "Do I need tow mirrors?" If you're hitching anything to the back of your vehicle, then the answer is yes! Trailer tow mirrors help make the road safer for you, your passengers, and other drivers. Keep reading to learn how to use tow mirrors, how to adjust your tow mirrors, and the types of tow mirrors available.

Why Trailer Tow Mirrors Are Important

Tow mirrors are side view mirrors specifically designed to aid in the task of towing. They help make towing safer by extending farther out from your vehicle than standard mirrors, therefore extending your range of view. Since many trailers completely block the view from your rearview mirror, it is essential to have increased visibility with your side mirrors. Not only is it illegal in most states to tow a trailer without tow mirrors, but it's also extremely unsafe to do so. Here are a few reasons using trailer tow mirrors help make the road safer for everyone:

• Improved Visibility: Tow mirrors extend your visibility around your vehicle, reducing blind spots and allowing you to see the whole length of the trailer.
• Better Load Awareness: Because you have a clearer view of your entire trailer, you can more quickly identify problems such as trailer swaying or unsecured cargo.
• Safer Maneuvering: Better visibility of other cars and objects means you can more safely make maneuvers such as lane changes, parking, and reversing.
• More Confidence: When you can see clearly around your vehicle and your trailer, you have the peace of mind to drive safely and confidently.

How to Use Tow Mirrors

Using tow mirrors is just like using regular side mirrors; the only difference is that tow mirrors give you a greater range of visibility along the sides and behind your vehicle. Tow mirrors are essential for bigger trucks, SUVs, and RVs that are towing heavy loads. The bigger the trailer you tow, the less visibility you will have around your vehicle. Therefore, bigger tow loads require bigger tow mirrors.

Generally, for every 10 feet of combined vehicle length ‐ meaning the length of your vehicle plus the length of the trailer ‐ your mirrors should be one inch in diameter. For example, a vehicle with an overall length of 40 feet should have a minimum size of four-inch tow mirrors. The most important thing is that your tow mirrors extend far enough out for you to see the entire side of your trailer and the traffic behind you.

How to Adjust Tow Mirrors

To properly adjust your tow mirrors, start with the tow mirrors set straight, perpendicular to the vehicle. While sitting in the driver's seat, angle the mirrors inward until you can clearly see down the length of your vehicle and at least 200 feet behind it.

If your tow mirrors are powered electronically, you will be able to adjust them on your own. For manually adjusted mirrors, it's best to have another person move the passenger-side mirror so you can properly adjust angles from a seated driving position.

Tips for Using Tow Mirrors

• After days on the road, dirt and grime pile up on mirrors and reduce visibility. Wipe down your tow mirrors regularly to avoid accidents on the road.
• Remember to consider trailer size when installing and adjusting tow mirrors.
• Are you worried about damaging wide mirrors in tight spots? Consider using telescoping, foldable, or removable tow mirrors.
• Always adjust tow mirrors after hitching a new trailer and before driving.

Types of Tow Mirrors

There are generally two categories of two mirrors available to drivers: permanent mirrors and portable mirrors.

Permanent Tow Mirrors

Permanent mirrors replace the factory side mirrors your vehicle came with and require installation. Unless you have experience, this is best left to a professional as the towing mirror installation process typically requires you to remove door panels and exchange wiring harnesses (if electrically powered). Permanent tow mirrors are best for people who frequently tow trailers or other large loads. Depending on the type of tow mirrors you install, they may come with features such as:

• Telescoping: either electronically or manually extend or retract your mirrors. Extended tow mirrors improve visibility down the length of your trailer and can retract back to standard length if you encounter any tight spots.
• LED Lights: turn signals and brake lights built into the tow mirrors increase safety for you and other drivers.
• Heating: heated tow mirrors quickly melt frost or ice to keep your mirrors clear on cold days.

Portable Tow Mirrors

With portable tow mirrors, you don't have to replace the existing tow mirrors your vehicle came with. They are easy to install and are convenient for people who do not tow regularly. Some common portable tow mirror types include:

• Convex Mirrors: Convex mirrors (mirrors that curve outward for a greater range of visibility) are small and attach directly onto your existing side mirrors using adhesive. They are particularly helpful in reducing blind spots.
• Clip-ons and Slip-ons: As the name suggests, these mirrors simply clip onto your existing mirrors or slide into place around them. They are most convenient for infrequent towing and switching between vehicles.

Get the Mirrors You Need to Tow with Confidence

Ready to hit the road with your trailer? Make sure your Nissan is up to par for the job! Shop trailer tow mirrors and other essential towing accessories made for your vehicle at Nissan Parts & Accessories.