Using towing mirrors that can be clipped onto your vehicle will ensure you are able to see beyond the trailer load. It is a legal requirement to use mirrors when towing any loads that are wider than the rear of your towing vehicle.
The best towing mirrors are the Fit System 3891 Deluxe, which is a universal fit for the majority of vehicles and they simply clip-on to your existing mirrors.
Clip on towing mirrors are available in a variety of different styles but the best pair you should choose are those that comply with federal and state regulations. Failing to do so may result in a fine due to them not being road legal.
Table of Contents
Best Towing Mirrors
| Towing Mirrors | Type | Configuration |
|---|---|---|
| Fit System 3891 Deluxe | Universal Clip On | Single |
| CIPA 11950 | Universal Clip On | Single |
| Reese Towpower 7034200 | Universal Clip On | Dual |
| DEDC Retrofit | Vehicle Specific | Dual |
| ECCPP Chrome | Vehicle Specific | Dual |
| K Source 81300 | Vehicle Specific | Single |
Whether you drive a RV or haul large loads using a fifth wheel hitch, investing into quality mirrors is highly beneficial. Being able to see further than the length of your trailer load will help prevent any accidents occurring and improves safety on the road.
Some vehicles may have been offered with the option of towing mirrors being installed from the factory. However, for those that do not, there are plenty of clip on examples or complete units that can be installed with ease.
Below is a list of the best towing mirrors that are easy to install and comply with federal and state regulations so that they are road legal.
Fit System Universal Clip On Towing Mirrors
The Fit System Towing Mirrors are by far the most popular and this is mainly due to the fact that they are a universal fit. There is no need for any special tools, drilling or anything complex. It simply clips on and is secured by a ratcheting lock system.
Other features of the Fit System Clip-on Towing Mirrors include:
- 5.125 x 7.75 inches viewing area
- Includes secure mounting hardware
- Compatible with all mirrors up to 11 1/2 inches tall
- Dual ratcheting plastic mounting straps
- Rubber padding to avoid damage to the mirror
The Fit System 3891 Deluxe Mirrors are highly rated and relatively affordable when compared to the alternatives. They are the best clip on towing mirrors that are compatible with the majority of vehicles with mirrors up to 11 1/2 inches tall.
CIPA 11950 Universal Towing Mirrors
The CIPA towing mirrors are an affordable alternative when compared to the similar Fit System mirrors above. They are a universal fit that clip directly onto your vehicles existing mirrors with no tools required.
Features of the CIPA Towing Mirrors include:
- Increases towing vision by up to 7 inches
- 5 x 7.5 mirror face
- Adjustable arms for a secure fit
- Able to rotate the mirror horizontal to a vertical position
- Can be used on either the left or ride side
Overall, they are excellent all-round towing mirrors that are universal and provide adequate towing vision. It is suitable for occasional usage but you may wish to purchase a more solid alternative for long trips or oversized loads.
Reese Towpower Extension Mirrors For Towing
The Reese Towpower brand are known for their superior build quality and general towing equipment. These clip on towing mirrors are fully adjustable and can attach to both of your existing mirrors in seconds.
Unlike other clip on towing mirrors, these provide a dual view with two adjustable mirrors for improving your towing vision.
Features of the Reese Towpower 7034200 Mirrors include:
- Adjustable security straps
- Aerodynamic design to reduce noise and vibration
- Universal fit that installs in seconds
- Installs to both sides of the vehicle
Overall, they are high quality clip on mirrors for improving your field of view whilst towing. The main drawback is that they are only sold separately, which means they are far more expensive than the alternatives above. However, the premium price tag means you get the superior build quality and intuitive dual viewing points.
DEDC Towing Mirrors For F250/F350/F450
For those that drive the popular F250, F350 or F450 trucks, the DEDC mirrors are the best option for towing. They come as a pair and connect straight to the original connectors but also comes with an adapter to retrofit to other models.
They are a premium example of what is available and includes everything you would expect from your OEM mirrors.
Features of the DEDC Ford Towing Mirrors include:
- Manually telescoping and folding
- Power, heated and indicators with the adapter
- Dual arm and dual glass
- Compatible with 1999 to 2007 F250/F350/F450 models
- High quality textured ABS that is finished in black
- Includes a 1 year warranty
Considering that the alternatives straight from the dealership would cost far more, these DEDC trailer towing mirrors provide great value for money.
They are a dual mirror configuration that provide excellent vision and are easily swapped with your current mirrors with just a few screws to remove.
ECCPP Trailer Towing Mirrors For Chevy Silverado
For drivers of a Chevy Silverado, these trailer towing mirrors are the best option. ECCPP offer them in two different styles with the more expensive offering the providing a dynamic light. They come packed as a pair and are a straight bolt on replacement to your original mirrors.
Features of the ECCPP Side Mirrors For Towing include:
- Suitable for various Silverado models ranging from 07 to 14
- Metallic chrome finish
- Heated and power mirrors with a built-in motor
- LED turn signal
- Hardware included for easy installation
- 6 month limited warranty
Overall, they are highly rated mirrors that are “plug in and play” with most Chevy Silverado models from 2007 to 2014. There are cheaper alternatives available but the additional functionality with the ECCPP mirrors make them a worthwhile investment.
K-Source Toyota Tundra Truck Towing Mirrors
For drivers of the Toyota Tundra or Sequoia models, you may opt for mirrors that simply “snap over” your existing mirrors. This widens your field of view while towing and is the most basic of installations when compared to the alternatives.
Features of the K Source 81300 Snap-on include:
- No drilling or tools required
- Adjustment screw for secure fit with no vibrations
- Looks like an original OEM mirror
- Folds and does not interfere with existing mirror
- May fit a range of other vehicles
Overall, the K Source 81300 Snap-on is an affordable towing mirror setup for Toyota trucks such as the Tundra and Sequoia models. Compared to other extensions, this looks the most like an OEM part rather than a retrofit.
Towing Mirrors Buying Guide
For those that are hauling loads that are wider than the towing vehicle, it is your responsibility by law to use towing mirrors. Failing to do so may result in a fine, which varies from state to state. Some vehicles come with mirrors designed for towing as standard but the majority do not.
If you are unable to see the entire length of your vehicle and load, then it obstructs you field of view. Failing to see certain areas of the road can result in accidental damage, which could have easily been avoided with a set of mirrors.
To help you make an informed buying decision, we have produced the below comprehensive guide regarding towing mirrors.
Clip On vs Vehicle Specific
When searching for the different types of mirrors, you will come across two main types, which are either clip-on or vehicle specific.
Clip on towing mirrors are a universal fit for the majority of vehicles and simply install to existing mirrors. They act as an extension with various adjustable straps to ensure that it is securely installed to the mirror.
Choosing vehicle specific mirrors that simply bolt on is one of the best options. They often come with a range of additional functionality too. However, there will not be a specific set of mirrors for each and every vehicle on the road.
Depending on the budget you have set aside and whether vehicle specific mirrors are available will determine your buying decision. However, for those that regular tow large loads, we would recommend the vehicle specific replacements.
Single and Double Mirrors
Another decision you will have to make is whether you require a single or dual mirror configuration. You will have to pay a higher price tag for the dual mirrors but the additional mirror provide an extra wide field of view. This improves your towing vision and can make a huge difference for extra long trailers.
Other Desirable Features
For vehicle specific mirrors, most aftermarket brands will add a range of additional features. Some of these additions include:
- Manual or power folding
- Flat or convex glass
- Telescoping design
- Heating element to clear haze
- Ease of installation
You may be able to get these mirrors from the dealership but they will be more expensive than aftermarket alternatives.
Installation
In terms of installing the mirrors onto your vehicle, it will depend upon the type of mirror. Clip on towing mirrors or ones that extend are the easiest to install. Simply attach them to the mirror and then tighten them using the ratcheting mechanism or straps. You will want to ensure they are not loose as they will flap or vibrate and may even fall off. Some brand will include padding between the towing mirror and existing mirror to avoid any damage. If this is not present, we highly recommend adding your own padding to prevent any damage.
When installing direct replacements, they should simply bolt on and require minimal wiring. Each vehicle is setup different but you may have to remove the trim surrounding the existing mirror in order to gain access to the screws. Once you have removed the screws, carefully pull the mirror out, which should expose wiring. Most aftermarket mirrors will include their own wiring harness that connects directly to the OEM wiring.
Conclusion
When using your mirrors while towing correctly, you are able to drastically reduce the chance of an accident on the road.
All of the recommendations within this article are suitable for a range of vehicles with both universal and direct replacements available. Without using towing mirrors whilst hauling large trailers, you are technically breaking the law.
