Towing Mirrors

Legal Requirements for Towing Mirrors

In Australia, towing laws require installing extended side towing mirrors on your vehicle if the trailer, caravan or other towed load exceeds the width of your car's standard mirrors. This improves your safety and that of other motorists by improving visibility and reducing the risk of accidents. It also prevents you from receiving potential fines and the legal repercussions associated with unsafe towing practices.

Types of Towing Mirrors

There are three main types of towing mirrors:

Clip-On Towing Mirrors – These mirrors are suitable if you tow occasionally. They are easy to install, adjust and remove, requiring only clips to keep them in place.

Strap-On Towing Mirrors – These use straps to provide a secure fit. They are great to use if you tow trailers, caravans or boats on a regular basis.

Door-Mounted Towing Mirrors - This is a permanent solution for your vehicle, replacing standard car mirrors. It provides you with enhanced stability and visibility at all times.

Choosing the Right Towing Mirror

When selecting a towing mirror, consider its compatibility with the type of vehicle you drive, the frequency with which you tow and your budget.

Also, think about whether you’d like to use a convex mirror (which offers you a wider field of vision) or a flat mirror (which provides you with a clearer, undistorted image).

Top-Rated Towing Mirrors

Milenco Grand Aero 4: Available in either flat or convex glass, these large towing mirrors are known for their aerodynamic design and stability at high speeds.

Maypole MP8329: These quick-fit convex mirrors are universally compatible with various vehicles, including cars, 4x4s and vans.

Towsure Rock Steady: These sturdy and strong towing mirrors provide enhanced visibility.

Installation and Adjustment Tips

Installation depends on the type of car towing mirrors you have. If you have selected clip-on or strap-on towing mirrors, you will simply add them to your existing mirrors using clips or straps. For door-mounted mirrors, you will need to remove and replace the existing standard vehicle mirrors.

Once installed, sit in the driver’s seat and adjust the towing mirrors for an approximate alignment, then fine-tune by tilting the mirrors outwards to reduce the blind spots.

Before embarking on your journey, check the mirrors for stability and go for a test drive to see if the mirrors need further adjustments..

Maintenance and Care

Clean your towing mirrors with a soft microfibre cloth using mild cleansers or automotive glass cleaners. Make sure to do this frequently to maintain optimal visibility and prevent dirt buildup.

Also, regularly inspect the mirrors for any loose parts, especially if you have driven through dirt roads where they may have been damaged by loose pebbles.

Store the towing mirrors indoors in protective covers. Make sure you don’t put any weight on top of them when stored to prevent damage.

Conclusion

Towing mirrors must be used as required by law to keep you and others safe on the road and to prevent fines. When selecting towing mirrors, take into account the width of your load. The type of towing mirror you choose (clip-on, strap-on or door-mounted) depends on how frequently you tow. Explore our range of top-rated towing mirrors today.