When it comes to safe driving, mirrors play a crucial role. In particular, outside rear view mirrors (ORVMs) help drivers see what’s happening on the sides and behind their vehicles, reducing blind spots and enhancing overall visibility. Modern ORVMs not only provide a clear view but often come with advanced features that improve convenience and safety. This article dives into what ORVMs are, their different types, and how they compare to inside rear view mirrors (IRVMs).
What are the Different Types of ORVM in Cars?
Over the years, ORVM in cars has evolved from simple mirrors to sophisticated tools equipped with technology that assists drivers in various conditions. Here are some common types of ORVMs:
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Manual ORVMs
These are the basic, traditional ORVMs that need to be manually adjusted by the driver or passenger to get the correct view. While they are inexpensive, they lack the convenience of quick adjustments, especially on the passenger side.
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Electric ORVMs
An adjustable ORVM in cars allows the driver to control the position of the mirror with an electric switch, usually found on the driver’s door. This type provides more convenience, especially when multiple drivers use the same vehicle or when fine adjustments are needed.
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Heated ORVMs
In colder climates, heated ORVMs are a huge advantage as they prevent the mirror surface from fogging or freezing, ensuring a clear view in rain, snow, or foggy weather.
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Auto-Folding ORVMs
This type can fold inwards when the car is parked or locked, reducing the chance of damage in crowded parking areas. Auto-folding ORVMs can also be manually controlled to fold or unfold as needed.
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Blind Spot Detection ORVMs
Many advanced ORVMs have sensors that detect vehicles in adjacent lanes, alerting the driver to vehicles in their blind spot. This feature significantly boosts safety, particularly on highways.
What is the Difference Between Inside Rear View Mirror (IRVM) vs. Outside Rear View Mirror (ORVM) in Cars?
Both IRVM and ORVM serve essential purposes, but they have distinct roles, like:
The IRVM is located inside the vehicle, typically on the windshield’s top centre, giving the driver a direct view of what’s behind. In contrast, the ORVMs are mounted on the outside, providing a view of the lanes beside and behind the vehicle.
While IRVMs are generally adjusted only when the seating position changes, an adjustable ORVM in cars can be repositioned with ease, providing drivers better control over their blind spots.
ORVMs are often equipped with advanced features like blind spot detection, heating, and electric adjustability, which are rarely found in IRVMs.
Conclusion
ORVMs are critical in any car, providing drivers with essential side and rear views, enhancing visibility, and improving safety. From basic manual models to high-tech auto-folding mirrors with blind-spot detection, ORVMs have come a long way. For car owners, it’s also worth considering car insurance online to protect their investment and cover repair costs, especially if they opt for vehicles with advanced ORVMs.
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