Towing mirrors are an essential accessory for any pickup truck owner who regularly tows trailers, boats, or other large loads. Whether you own a Chevy, GMC, Ford, or Toyota, proper maintenance and cleaning of your towing mirrors will ensure they continue to provide excellent visibility and perform at their best. In this guide, we’ll cover essential tips to help keep your tow mirrors in optimal condition for years to come.
Why Towing Mirrors Matter
Towing mirrors are designed to extend your field of vision, making them crucial for safe and controlled towing. Whether you’re towing a boat, RV, or cargo, these mirrors allow you to see around your trailer, eliminating blind spots and enhancing safety. They are available for various pickup accessories and come in both manual and power-folding styles for convenience.
Regular Maintenance: Keeping Your Towing Mirrors in Top Shape
-
Inspect Regularly for Damage Regular inspections will help you catch any potential issues early. Check for cracks, scratches, or any signs of wear on the mirror housing and the mirror surface. If you notice any damage, it’s crucial to address it immediately, as even small cracks can reduce the effectiveness of the mirrors.
-
Lubricate Moving Parts If you have power folding towing mirrors on your Chevy, GMC, Ford, or Toyota, it's important to lubricate the moving parts periodically. This ensures smooth operation and prevents rusting or malfunctioning of the mechanism. Use a silicone-based lubricant to avoid attracting dirt and grime.
-
Tighten Mounting Bolts Over time, the bolts holding your towing mirrors in place can loosen due to vibrations from driving. Regularly check and tighten the mounting bolts to ensure your mirrors stay securely attached to your vehicle.
-
Check Electrical Connections (for Power Mirrors) If your towing mirrors feature electrical functions such as heating, power folding, or turn signal lights, it’s essential to inspect the wiring for any signs of wear or damage. A loose or damaged connection can cause these functions to fail, so make sure to address any issues promptly.
Cleaning Your Towing Mirrors
Cleaning your towing mirrors not only helps maintain their appearance but also ensures that you get the best performance from them. Here’s how to clean your tow mirrors properly:
-
Use a Soft Cloth or Microfiber Towel When cleaning the mirror surface, always use a soft cloth or microfiber towel. Avoid using abrasive materials that could scratch the mirror and reduce its clarity. Microfiber towels are excellent for trapping dirt and moisture without damaging the surface.
-
Choose the Right Cleaning Solution For the best results, use a gentle glass cleaner or an automotive-specific cleaning solution. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the finish of the mirror or its protective coatings. Apply the cleaner directly to the cloth, not the mirror, to prevent excess liquid from seeping into the mirror housing.
-
Clean the Housing and Base The housing and base of your towing mirrors are exposed to the elements and can accumulate dirt, road salt, and grime. Use a soft brush or cloth to clean the plastic and metal components. For stubborn dirt or road tar, you may need a mild soap solution and water.
Winter Care for Towing Mirrors
In cold climates, towing mirrors face additional challenges from snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. Here are some winter care tips:
-
Use Heated Mirrors Many modern towing mirrors come with built-in heating features. If your mirrors are equipped with this function, make sure to use it during cold weather to prevent snow and ice buildup.
-
Cover Your Mirrors If you live in an area with harsh winters, consider investing in mirror covers to protect your tow mirrors from snow and ice. These covers can prevent the buildup of ice and make it easier to clean the mirrors when you’re ready to hit the road.
Conclusion
Maintaining and cleaning your towing mirrors is an essential part of preserving the safety and functionality of your vehicle, whether you’re towing a trailer or a boat. At BESQ AUTO, our towing mirrors are built for durability and strength, designed to withstand tough conditions and daily use. However, following these maintenance and cleaning tips will help extend their lifespan and keep them performing at their best.
By regularly inspecting, cleaning, and protecting your towing mirrors, you ensure that your pickup continues to benefit from the enhanced safety and visibility our mirrors provide. With a little care, your Towing Mirrors will be ready to go whenever you need them, ensuring a safer and more efficient towing experience for years to come.