Features of Electric Mirrors, Components and The Maintenance Costs
20 April, 2023
There are many security features embedded in the car. One of them is the mirror. Even though it’s not a new feature, the technology is constantly being updated to produce mirrors that are not only stylish but also sophisticated. Now comes electric mirrors which are the latest model of mirrors that are driven using an electrical system.
The model for how electric mirrors work is to make the viewing angle on the electric mirror wider. So the rearview mirror can be adjusted to the wishes of the user. Then, what are the components to the advantages of a car with electric mirrors? Here’s the full review!
Electric Mirror Components
Electric mirrors on cars are composed of several interrelated components, including:
1. Switch Button
The switch button is useful for changing the operating command. This switch is useful for adjusting the mirror position. This switch is useful as a mirror operation regulator to the left or right. So you can fold or open the electric mirrors by pressing this switch button.
2. 4 Way Mirror Switch
This component functions as a mirror drive in different directions. The term four directions is because in it there are four buttons. The directions show up, down, right, and left.
3. Mirror Housing
Mirror housing is convex in shape. This is due to the presence of a mirror engine component. The location of this mirror engine component is behind the mirror.
4. Mirror Engine
Mirror Engines are basically the same as electric engines in general. Its function is to convert electrical energy into rotational energy. The system in this electric mirror is closed by means of a lever by moving the mirror. For a mirror in the mirror consists of two engines that function to move the mirror in different directions, as many as 4 directions.
5. Mirror
The main component in these electric mirrors is the mirror. Functionally, the mirror has the role of reflecting light/shadow which makes it easier for the rider. This mirror is actually the same as an ordinary mirror, but it is located independently of the mirror housing. This makes the mirror in this mirror more flexible, able to move without disturbing the mirror housing.
6. Electrical System
Electric mirrors certainly have an electrical system consisting of several sub-components. Starting from cables, fuses, relays, and so on. The cable itself has two types, namely control and power.
Advantages of Electric Mirrors
So what are the advantages of electric mirrors when compared to other mirror models? Here’s more!
1. Auto Dimming Technology
Electric mirrors come with a mirror feature that can dim automatically. Its function is useful for reducing glare and discomfort from other lights. This technology can also dim proportionally.
The light reaching it will likely dim the mirror more when the lights are bright. With this feature, you can stay focused on driving without worrying about the lights from other cars.
2. More Transparent Display
In addition, electric mirrors also have a more transparent appearance. The look is certainly more modern when compared to conventional mirrors.
3. More Automatic
You don’t have to bother manually shifting the mirror position. With electric mirror technology, adjusting the mirror position becomes easier. It makes driving much more focused, without worrying about changing the mirror position.
Talking about electric mirrors, Wuling Almaz Hybrid is a car that has this feature. The design comes with a modern look and many advanced features. Not only the electric mirrors, the car with the Dedicated Hybrid Transmission is also equipped with a 123 hp engine with a maximum motor speed of 174 hp/320 Nm.
How to Treat for Electric Mirrors
Because it uses electricity technology, electric mirrors have different maintenance than manual model mirrors.
- Avoid Entrance Mud. Treating electric mirrors from mud stains, so they don’t stick to the engine. Rinse the engine with soap if the mud stains have already dried.
- Give Lubricant. You can apply the lubricant to some of the main parts of the electric mirrors, such as the pioneer gear so they can work more optimally. The existence of this lubricant will increase the ability of the drive gear to become lighter.
- Ensure Cavity is Clean. Sterilize the gerong parts to keep them clean so they are free of rust.You can spray anti-rust solution, to clean this cavity
- Wipe Rear View when it gets rain. Rainwater has corrosive properties that must be cleaned immediately if it gets on vehicle components, including when it hits the electric mirrors which must be cleaned immediately after rain. Please note, rust can make it difficult to move the mirror so that it damages the components of this car. If the rust is already attached, remove the mirror and rinse it using vinegar.
Electric Mirror Maintenance Fee
Maintenance of electric mirrors is more expensive than manual mirror maintenance, because the way to repair electric car mirrors is more complicated than manual mirrors. Here are some details on the approximate cost of maintaining this type of mirror.
- If to repair damage to the drive gear, the costs incurred are between Rp. 200,000 to Rp. 600,000.
- If it’s for damage to the electric engine, the maintenance costs around IDR 250,000 to IDR 400,000.
- For damage to the folding motorbike, the estimated repair costs are around IDR 300,000 to IDR 500,000.
- The service fee for minor damage is around IDR 200,000 to IDR 250,000.
- The service fee for heavy damage is around IDR 800,000 to IDR 1.2 million
The difference between Electric and Retract Mirrors
Electric mirrors have glass parts that can be moved automatically. To move it, you only need to press the button on the dashboard of the car. This automation certainly greatly facilitates the visibility of the driver.
Mainly for rear view visibility. With this system it will be easier to adjust the mirror position as you wish. Electric mirrors can be bent manually even though they can be moved automatically.
The button settings on this mirror use four-way mode. Up, down, right, and left as well as the switch panel. The function of the switch panel itself is to be able to choose which mirror to move.
Meanwhile, the mirror retract works by closing automatically when the vehicle is parked. This mirror usually works when you want to park on a narrow street. Folded mirrors will make it easier for the car to move. When you pass another car, the mirrors will fold automatically by pressing a button. No need to worry about mirrors touching other drivers’ cars anymore.
If electric mirrors can be bent manually, retract mirrors are the opposite. If you bend this mirror manually, it will actually damage the mechanism. The button is only one for retracting the mirror. The button is only limited to opening and closing using the remote. If the car is locked from the outside, the mirrors will automatically fold. If the remote is pressed to open the car door, the mirrors also open automatically.
That’s a complete review of electric mirrors with a myriad of features in them. Make sure maintenance is not forgotten to support long-term performance.
