Toyota Rear View Mirror Buyer's Guide
Rear-view mirrors provide critical visibility to drivers and contribute to overall road safety. They help you view the area around your car or truck and enable you to spot obstacles or other vehicles.
Toyota rear-view mirrors have evolved over the years, incorporating modern technologies and improving both functionality and design. If you've got questions about rearview mirrors, you've come to the right place. In this buyer's guide we'll cover:
- The evolution of Toyota rearview mirrors
- Toyota rearview mirror problems
- Why OEM rearview mirrors are better than aftermarket mirrors
- How to replace a rearview mirror
Toyota Rear-View Mirrors, Then And Now
Image Credit: JamesKlafehn
Originally, Toyota vehicles' rear-view mirrors were simple, manually adjustable mirrors made primarily of steel, glass, and plastic. Modern Toyota rear-view mirrors often include advanced features such as auto-dimming capabilities, integrated cameras, and blind-spot warning systems. These mirrors are more complex systems that include electrical components and sophisticated mounts, typically made from a combination of glass, high-impact plastics, and sometimes metal.
Some rear-view mirrors work with backup cameras, which provide a view directly behind your vehicle when it is in reverse. Depending on your vehicle's make and model, the backup camera screen may be integrated into the rear-view mirror but is more commonly displayed on the infotainment screen in your dashboard.
Common Issues With Toyota Rear View Mirrors
Over time, rear-view mirrors can get damaged or break due to age or use. Here are some of the most common issues:
- Cracked or Broken Mirror Glass: Impact or stress can lead to a cracked or completely broken mirror lens.
- Dirty or Fogged Mirrors: Environmental factors can also cause mirrors to become dirty or fogged, reducing visibility.
- Malfunctioning Adjustments: When a mirror won’t stay in the adjusted position, it may be due to worn-out mechanical parts.
- Electronic Malfunctions: Mirrors equipped with cameras, auto-dimming, or lights can experience electronic malfunctions.
- De-Silvering: Older mirrors may experience de-silvering, where the reflective coating behind the glass deteriorates, reducing visibility.
The Difference Between OEM And Aftermarket Rearview Mirrors
Choosing between OEM and aftermarket parts can sometimes be difficult when it comes to maintaining your Toyota. However, there are some definite advantages to sticking with genuine OEM Toyota rearview mirrors, including:
- OEM rearview mirrors are engineered to fit your specific Toyota vehicle
- OEM rearview mirrors are typically higher quality than aftermarket mirrors
- OEM rearview mirrors come with an OEM Toyota manufacturer's warranty
For all these reasons, an OEM rearview mirror will save you money in the long run. Even though you could save a few dollars upfront, you could save hundreds of dollars over the life of your Toyota by sticking with OEM parts.
How To Replace A Toyota Rearview Mirror
Replacing your Toyota rear view mirror is a DIY task that almost anyone with a little automotive know-how can complete. You'll need some basic tools and a little time, but you'll save lots of money.
Be sure to have some adhesive remover and cleaning products handy. We also recommend you take photos along the way as to be sure you install the new mirror in the exact same manner as the original. Check out this guide for a detailed walk-through of the process.
Olathe Toyota Parts Center Has Genuine Rear View Mirrors
If you need to replace the rearview mirror on your Toyota car, truck, or SUV, your best source is the Olathe Toyota Parts Center. All we carry are OEM parts, available at wholesale prices and backed by the standard Toyota 12-month, unlimited-mile warranty.
We also have a number of free resources that can help you diagnose common Toyota trouble codes and a Toyota VIN decoder to provide info about your vehicle.
Got questions? Contact us, and our friendly staff will be glad to help!