The most common damage to side mirrors in winter

Introduction

Side mirrors are one of the most important car components, ensuring safety while driving. During winter, when weather conditions are harsh, side mirrors are particularly susceptible to various types of damage. In this article, we'll discuss the most common problems that can occur, along with how to prevent and repair them.

The history and development of side mirrors

The first side mirrors appeared in cars in the early 20th century. Initially, they were simple body-mounted designs, primarily used to observe traffic behind the vehicle. As technology advanced, mirrors became more advanced, gaining features such as electrical adjustment, heating, and automatic folding.

Modern side mirrors often come equipped with additional technologies such as cameras, blind-spot sensors, and forward collision warning systems. Despite these improvements, they are still susceptible to damage, especially in harsh winter conditions.

Typical damage to mirrors during the winter season

Cracks and scratches

Low temperatures and icy conditions can cause mirror glass to crack. Furthermore, when clearing snow from your car, it's easy to accidentally scratch the mirror surface. In extreme cases, severe frost can lead to complete glass breakage.

Frozen regulation mechanisms

In winter, mirror adjustment mechanisms can freeze, preventing proper adjustment. This is especially troublesome when you need to adjust the mirrors to suit driving conditions. Frost can also damage the electric motors responsible for the adjustment.

Electrical damage

Water entering the mirror housing can cause short circuits and damage to electrical systems. This applies to both the heating system and other functions, such as automatic folding and blind spot sensors.

How to prevent damage to your side mirrors in winter

Preventing damage to your side mirrors requires regular maintenance and proper winter preparation. Here are some practical tips:

• Regular cleaning and maintenance: Removing snow and ice from the mirror surfaces with a soft cloth or special scrapers prevents scratches.

• Use of protective covers: Special mirror covers protect them from icing and dirt.

• Avoiding the use of hot water: Hot water can cause glass to crack due to the sudden change in temperature.

• Checking the technical condition: Regular inspection of control mechanisms and electrical systems allows for early detection of problems.

Repair and replacement of damaged mirrors

Repair of minor damage

Minor scratches can be removed with special polishing compounds available at automotive stores. For minor glass cracks, it's worth consulting a professional to assess the possibility of repair.

Replacing the mirror

If the mirror is severely damaged, it may need to be replaced. It's important to check the quality of the replacements and ensure they are compatible with your car model.The exchange process typically includes:

• Removing the old mirror

• Installing a new element

• Checking the correct operation of all functions

Below is a table showing the approximate costs of repairing and replacing side mirrors:

Type of damage	Approximate cost (PLN)
Polishing scratches	50 - 100
Repair of the adjustment mechanism	150 - 300
Replacing the mirror	300 - 800

Repair time

The time it takes to repair or replace a mirror depends on the type of damage and the availability of spare parts. In most cases, repairs can be completed within a few hours.

Summary

Winter is a challenging time for drivers, and side mirrors are particularly susceptible to various types of damage. However, with proper maintenance and regular inspections, most problems can be effectively prevented. In the case of more serious damage, it's worth seeking professional help to ensure safe and comfortable driving in all conditions.

Below is a chart showing the most common causes of damage to side mirrors in winter:

Thanks to this knowledge, every driver can take better care of their side mirrors and avoid costly repairs in the future.