Driving safely is not always easy, especially at night. Many times the bright headlights of oncoming cars combined with the glare of approaching vehicles from behind can blind us momentarily, greatly compromising our ability to drive safely. Since our eyes react to light by creating an "after-image" on the retina, we cannot see clearly for up a few minutes after a bright light hits our eyes. This can cause our reaction time to be reduced, which will lead to a slower stopping time. In the case of a needed quick stop, we may take up to a 100 feet longer if our eyes have been affected by the glare of others' headlights. There is way to reduce this from happening-auto dimming rearview mirrors.
Auto dimming rearview mirrors are the latest in nighttime driving safety. These nifty gadgets used an eletrochromic process to create an electric current that automatically dims the reflective surface of the mirror when a sensor facing the rear picks up the glare from a vehicle's headlights. The darkening effect can be more for brighter halogen lights aimed directly at your rearview mirror or less dark if the glare is not so bad.
Millions of new cars come with factory-installed auto dimming mirrors. However, they can also be installed after-market fairly easily in a couple of hours. Auto dimming rearview mirrors can come in a variety of options. Some are just the mirror itself. J.C. Whitney, a well-known auto parts retailer, offers this plain model for around $99. If you want everything in one, you can have that, too. The up-scaled versions of auto dimming mirrors also have a compass, thermometer, garage door opener, security gate remote control, even remotes for your home's lights. This multi-functioning auto dimming mirror will run somewhere under $399 on Homelinks-they suggest calling for the exact price. A between the extremes option, the auto dimming mirror with just the compass and thermometer as extras will cost around $229 at J.C. Whitney. Other retailers seem to stay pretty much within the same price ranges for the same type of models.
If you buy one of these after-market auto dimming rearview mirrors, you can follow the manufacturer's directions to easily install it yourself with just a screwdriver and wire cutters with a crimping tool. If you do not feel comfortably handy with installing a wiring harness, you can also take it to a professional to have it installed, although this will cost you a bit more because of labor charges.
Whether you are shopping for a new car or looking for a way to make your existing vehicle safer, you will want to consider auto dimming rearview mirrors. Anything that can help make your trip a safe one is a bargain.