Why do right-hand drive cars need an additional mirror?
Owners of right-hand drive cars - from Japanese Toyota Hiace before the British Land Rover Defender — regularly face the same problem: the blind spot on the right. The standard right rear view mirror does not cover the side of the car, which makes overtaking and changing lanes potentially dangerous. That's what it's intended for overtaking mirror - a compact additional device that is mounted on a standard mirror or hood.
In Russia and the CIS countries, where traffic is on the left, right-hand drive cars are considered “foreigners” on the roads. Without an overtaking mirror, the driver literally has to crane his neck to see the situation on the right - this distracts him from the road and increases the risk of an accident. According to traffic police statistics, up to 18% of accidents involving right-hand drive cars occur due to failure to maintain a distance when overtaking precisely because of poor visibility.
But not all overtaking mirrors are equally useful. Cheap Chinese models can distort the image or quickly fail, and improper installation will negate their effectiveness. In this article, we’ll look at how to choose a reliable mirror, where to buy it at a fair price, and how to avoid common mistakes during installation.
Types of overtaking mirrors: which one is right for you?
Overtaking mirrors are divided into several types according to the method of attachment, shape and functionality. The choice depends on your car model, budget and personal preferences. Let's look at the main options:
- 🔹 Overhead mirrors — are attached on top of the standard rearview mirror using rubber straps or Velcro. Suitable for temporary use (for example, when traveling to another country). Disadvantage: may move in strong winds.
- 🔹 Mirrors on bracket — installed on the hood or fender of the car. They provide a wide viewing angle, but require drilling into the body. Popular among owners Toyota Surf and Mitsubishi Delica.
- 🔹 Substitute mirrors — completely replace the standard right mirror. Often equipped with heating and electric drive. The best option for regular use, but more expensive than others.
- 🔹 Panoramic mirrors - with a convex surface that increases the viewing angle to 180°. Ideal for overtaking long vehicles, but require getting used to due to perspective distortion.
Separately worth mentioning mirrors with camera - a modern solution that displays an image on the screen of a radio or rear view mirror. Such systems are installed on Nissan Elgrand and Mazda Bongo, but their price starts from 15,000 rubles, and installation requires intervention in the electrical wiring.
| Mirror type | Pros | Cons | Average price, ₽ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Invoice | Easy installation, does not damage the body | May move, limited view | 500–2 000 |
| On the bracket | Wide view, secure fit | Requires drilling, difficult installation | 2 500–8 000 |
| Substitute for regular | Maximum functionality, aesthetic appearance | Expensive, not suitable for all models | 7 000–20 000 |
| Panoramic | 180° viewing angle, versatility | Perspective distortion, takes some getting used to | 1 500–6 000 |
⚠️ Attention: If you choose a mirror on a bracket, check the compatibility with the body of your car. For example, for Toyota TownAce a bracket with a bend is suitable, and for Suzuki Jimny - only straight. The wrong choice can result in vibrations at speed.
TOP 5 stores where to buy overtaking mirrors for right-hand drive cars
Where is it better to buy: on marketplaces, in specialized stores or from private sellers? We analyzed reviews from owners of right-hand drive cars and compiled a rating of reliable sites with current prices for 2026.
- 🛒 "Japonauto" — specializes in spare parts for Japanese right-hand drive cars. Here you can find mirrors for Mitsubishi Pajero and Nissan Serena with 1 year warranty. Average price: 3,000–12,000 rubles.
- 🛒 Wildberries — a large selection of overhead mirrors (for example, HELLA 8DL 008 001-121) with free shipping. Disadvantage: difficult to verify originality.
- 🛒 "Pravorul.ru" — a store for owners of right-hand drive cars. They offer heated mirrors with anti-reflective coating. Prices from 4,500 ₽.
- 🛒 AliExpress - cheap options (from 800 ₽), but delivery takes up to 30 days. The risk of running into a fake is up to 30%, according to reviews.
- 🛒 "Autodop" — networks in Moscow, St. Petersburg and Yekaterinburg. You can try on the mirror before purchasing. Average check: 5,000–9,000 rubles.
If you are looking for a mirror for a rare model (eg. Subaru Sambar or Daihatsu Hijet), it is better to contact brand dealers directly or owner groups on Drive2 and Right Hand Drive Forum. They often sell used mirrors in good condition at a price 2-3 times lower than new ones.
Before purchasing, check whether the kit includes fasteners. Often bolts and nuts are sold separately, and their size depends on the car model (for example, for Toyota LiteAce M6 thread is required, and for Honda Stepwgn — M8).
How to install an overtaking mirror: step-by-step instructions
Installing the mirror on the bracket requires care, especially if you have to drill into the body. We have prepared universal instructions that are suitable for most right-hand drive cars. You will need:
- 🔧 Drill with a set of drills (diameter depends on the bracket)
- 🔧 Car sealant (for example, ABRO WS-904)
- 🔧 Wrench set
- 🔧 Marker and tape measure
Mark the mounting locations with a marker|Check for wiring or fuel pipes under the hood|Apply sealant to the holes after drilling|Tighten the bolts with a torque wrench (tightening torque: 10–15 Nm)-->
Step 1. Marking. Attach the bracket to the hood or fender and mark the holes. Make sure that the mirror will not interfere with opening the door or trunk. For Mitsubishi Delica the optimal distance from the edge of the hood is 15–20 cm.
Step 2. Drilling. Start with a small drill bit (2-3mm), then widen the hole to the desired diameter. For aluminum hoods (e.g. Land Rover Defender) use metal drills with titanium coating.
Step 3. Installing the bracket. Thread the bolts through the holes, put on the washers and tighten the nuts. Do not overtighten - this may deform the body. For plastic bumpers (as on Suzuki Every) use self-tapping screws with a press washer.
Step 4. Attaching the mirror. Attach the mirror to the bracket according to the instructions. Check that it does not vibrate when tapped. If the mirror is electric, connect the wires to the nearest power source (for example, to the heated rear window wires).
⚠️ Attention: If your car is under warranty, drilling into the body may void it. In this case, it is better to choose an overhead mirror or a substitute mirror that is attached without compromising the integrity of the body.
What to do if the mirror vibrates at speed?
Vibration usually occurs due to a loose bracket or mirror imbalance. Try:
1. Place rubber gaskets between the bracket and the body.
2. Tighten the bolts to a torque of 12–15 Nm (use a torque wrench).
3. If the vibration remains, the mirror may be too large for your model. Replace it with a compact one (for example, Bosch 1 987 402 004).
Review of the best overtaking mirror models in 2026
We tested 10 popular models of overtaking mirrors and selected the top 3 in terms of price/quality ratio. All of them are suitable for most right-hand drive cars and have positive reviews on the forums.
1. HELLA 8DL 008 001-121 (panoramic, overhead)
Pros: wide viewing angle (170°), easy installation, anti-glare coating.
Cons: Velcro fastening weakens over time.
Price: ~2 800 ₽.
Suitable for: Toyota Hiace, Nissan Elgrand, Mazda Bongo.
2. Bosch 1 987 402 004 (on bracket)
Pros: durable metal bracket, adjustable in two planes.
Cons: Requires body drilling.
Price: ~6 500 ₽.
Suitable for: Mitsubishi Pajero, Subaru Sambar, Suzuki Jimny.
3. Depo 335-1123R-AS (replacement for the standard one)
Pros: built-in heating, electric drive, complete replacement of the standard mirror.
Cons: high price, not suitable for all models.
Price: ~18 000 ₽.
Suitable for: Land Rover Defender, Toyota Land Cruiser Prado (right-hand drive versions).
If you need a mirror for commercial vehicles (eg. Isuzu Elf or Hino Dutro), pay attention to models from Ichikoh — they withstand vibrations and temperature changes from -40° to +80°.
For winter use, choose heated mirrors (for example, HELLA 8DL 357 009-121). They prevent icing and fogging, which is critical for regions with cold climates.
Typical mistakes when purchasing and installing: how not to waste money
Even experienced car owners sometimes make mistakes when choosing or installing an overtaking mirror. Here are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them:
- 🚫 Buying a mirror without checking compatibility. For example, a bracket for Toyota Hiace not suitable for Nissan Caravan due to the different bending radius of the hood. Always check the car model with the seller.
- 🚫 Ignoring adjustments after installation. The mirror should be adjusted so that the rear wheel and part of the road behind the car are visible. If only the sky or asphalt is visible, the mirror is useless.
- 🚫 Savings on fasteners. Cheap bolts and nuts rust and weaken. Use stainless steel fasteners (eg Din 933 A2).
- 🚫 Installing a mirror with a camera without wiring protection. The wires must be laid in corrugation and secured with ties, otherwise they will rub against the body.
Another common mistake is buying a mirror with too much magnification. Such models distort the distance to objects, which can lead to an accident when parking. The optimal magnification for an overtaking mirror is 2–3 times.
⚠️ Attention: If you are installing a mirror on a tinted car, make sure it does not block your view through the front window. According to GOST R 51709-2001, the light transmission of the windshield must be at least 70%. The mirror should not reduce this indicator.
Overtaking mirror and the law: what does the traffic police say?
According to Traffic rules of the Russian Federation (clause 7.3), the driver is obliged to ensure that the vision systems (mirrors) are in good working order before leaving. However, there is no direct mention of overtaking mirrors in the law. This means:
- ✅ Installation of an additional mirror not prohibited, if it does not block the view and does not create a danger for other road users.
- ✅ The traffic police inspector does not have the right to fine you for having an overtaking mirror if it is installed correctly.
- ❌ If the mirror vibrates, falls off or distorts the view, this may be considered a malfunction (
Code of Administrative Offenses 12.5 part 1- warning or fine 500 ₽).
In some regions (for example, in Moscow and St. Petersburg), traffic police officers may find fault with “non-standard body elements.” To avoid problems:
- Keep the receipt and certificate for the mirror.
- Make sure that the mirror does not protrude beyond the dimensions of the car by more than 20 cm (according to
GOST R 52389-2005). - If the inspector requires you to remove the mirror, ask to see a regulation prohibiting its installation (it does not exist).
In practice, problems arise extremely rarely. According to Autocode, in 2023, only 12 cases of challenging fines for overtaking mirrors were recorded - and all of them were canceled in court.
FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions
Is it possible to install an overtaking mirror yourself if you have no experience?
Yes, but overhead mirrors are easier to install than models on a bracket. If you need to drill the body, it is better to contact a car service - an error in the markings can lead to corrosion. Average cost of installation in the service: 1,500–3,000 ₽.
Which mirror is better - convex or flat?
Convex mirrors provide a larger viewing angle, but distort the distance to objects. Flat ones convey perspective more accurately, but cover a smaller area. The best option is a combination: the main mirror is flat, and the overrunning mirror is slightly convex (radius of curvature 1200–1500 mm).
How to protect a mirror from vandals?
If you park in a disadvantaged area, choose mirrors with quick-release mounts (for example, HELLA 8DL 357 009-121). You can also install an alarm with a tilt sensor or stick a protective film on the mirror (for example, 3M Scotchgard).
Will a mirror from a left-hand drive car fit a right-hand drive car?
No, mirrors for left-hand drive and right-hand drive cars are not interchangeable due to different viewing angles. For example, a mirror from Toyota Camry (left-hand drive) will not fit right-hand drive Toyota Mark II, even if they look similar.
How much does it cost to ship a mirror from Japan?
The cost depends on weight and dimensions. For example, delivery of a mirror Ichikoh weighing 1.2 kg will cost 2,500–4,000 ₽ (via Buyee or Tenso). Duration: 2–4 weeks. Alternative: order via Japancars.ru - they work with direct deliveries and deliver faster (7-14 days).