Overtaking in a right-hand drive car is always additional stress for the driver. Limited visibility to the left, an unusual perspective and the need to control the oncoming lane require maximum concentration. That's why overtaking mirror becomes not a luxury, but a necessity for owners of right-hand drive cars driven in countries with left-hand traffic (for example, in Russia or Ukraine).

But how to choose the right model among dozens of offers on the market? What installation nuances need to be taken into account so that the mirror does not dazzle, does not shake on bumps and gives a clear picture? And most importantly, how can it be adjusted correctly so that overtaking becomes safer and does not turn into a lottery? In this guide we will look at all aspects - from the types of mirrors to the legal subtleties of their use.

Spoiler: mirrors with an increased viewing radius (fish-eye type) provide a wide angle, but distort the distance to cars - this is critical when overtaking trucks on the highway. But flat mirrors with anti-reflective coating are suitable for urban environments, where accuracy, not width of view, is important.

Why are standard mirrors not suitable for overtaking in a right-hand drive car?

The problem lies in viewing geometry. In left-hand drive cars, the left mirror (driver's side) is positioned to cover the blind spot when overtaking. But in right-hand drive cars, this mirror looks at the side of the road, and not at the oncoming lane. Even if you unscrew it all the way, there remains a blind spot the size of a car.

This is what happens when you try to overtake without an additional mirror:

  • 🔍 Blind spot up to 3–5 meters - you do not see motorcycles, bicycles or cars that started overtaking at the same time as you.
  • 🚛 Trucks and vans completely hide the view: their dimensions even block the side mirror.
  • 💡 Sun glare on a standard mirror they dazzle in the morning/evening hours, impairing visibility.
  • 🔄 Uncomfortable head rotation angle — in order to see the left mirror, you have to deviate from the trajectory.

Research British Road Safety Institute show that drivers of right-hand drive cars in countries with left-hand traffic get into accidents when overtaking 40% more oftenthan owners of left-hand drive cars. And this is not an accident - the physiology of vision and the ergonomics of the cabin play a key role here.

📊 What brand of right-hand drive car do you drive?
Toyota
Nissan
Mazda
Subaru
Honda
Other

Types of overtaking mirrors: which one to choose?

There are three main types of mirrors on the market, and each has pros and cons. The choice depends on your driving style, type of road (city/highway) and budget.

Mirror type Pros Cons Better for
Flat wide angle Minimal distortion, clear display of distances Narrower viewing angle (120–140°), requires fine tuning Cities, highways
Fisheye (spherical) Viewing angle up to 180°, the entire dead zone is visible Strong distortion, difficult to judge distance Highway driving, overtaking trucks
Aspherical (combined) Wide view + minimal edge distortion More expensive than others, more difficult to install Universal solution
Digital (with camera) No blind spots, can display media on screen High price, dependence on power supply Premium class, SUVs

For most drivers, the best choice will be aspherical mirror — it gives a balance between viewing width and accuracy. For example, models Hekasa or Fit System have a 2.5x magnification zone around the edges and a flat center area. But it is better to install the fisheye only on the highway - in the city it will be more of a hindrance than a help.

💡

Before purchasing, check whether the mirror has a certificate UNECE No. 46 — this is a guarantee that it will not break into fragments during an accident and will not blind oncoming drivers.

Top 5 mirrors for overtaking on right-hand drive cars (2026)

We analyzed reviews from owners of right-hand drive cars and tests from independent experts (including ADAC and Auto Express) to rank the best models. All of them are compatible with popular brands - Toyota Corolla, Nissan Note, Mazda Demio and others.

  • 🥇 Hekasa HS-KM-01 — aspherical, viewing angle 160°, anti-reflective coating, mounted on a standard mirror. Price: ~2,500 rub.
  • 🥈 Fit System FS-300 — combined (flat + fisheye), adjustment in 2 planes. Price: ~3,200 rub.
  • 🥉 Autoexpert AE-M1 — wide-angle flat, heated, suitable for winter use. Price: ~4,100 rub.
  • 4️⃣ CarPoint CP-5000 — digital, with a 1080p camera and night vision, mounted on a bracket. Price: ~8,500 rub.
  • 5️⃣ Blind Spot BS-2026 - budget spherical, angle 180°, but severe distortion. Price: ~1,200 rub.

If your budget is limited, take Blind Spot BS-2026 - it's better than nothing. But for constant use on the highway it is optimal Fit System FS-300: Its combined optics allow you to quickly assess the situation without distortion.

How to check a mirror before purchasing?

Inspect the mount - it should be metal, not plastic. Twist the mirror: play of more than 1 mm indicates poor quality. Look at the reflection of the lamp - if it bifurcates, then the glass is crooked.

Step-by-step instructions for installing a mirror

You can install an overtaking mirror yourself in 20–40 minutes. You will need: a Phillips screwdriver, alcohol wipes, double-sided tape (if the mount is glued) and, possibly, a drill for drilling holes for the bracket.

Clean the mounting area from dirt and grease|Check the mirror package (bracket, fasteners, instructions)|Disconnect the battery if you are drilling|Close the car windows to prevent dust from entering the interior-->

Step 1. Choosing a mounting location

  • 🔧 On standard mirror - the simplest option. Suitable for clip-on mirrors (e.g. Hekasa HS-KM-01).
  • 🔧 On door - requires drilling. The optimal height is 15–20 cm below the top edge of the window.
  • 🔧 On windshield pillar - a universal option, but may interfere with the view.

Step 2: Attaching the Bracket

If the mirror is bolted on:

  1. Attach the bracket to the door and mark the holes for the holes with a pencil.
  2. Drill holes with a ⌀3–4 mm drill (depending on the bolts).
  3. Install rubber seals to avoid corrosion.
  4. Secure the bracket with bolts, but do not overtighten - the glass may crack.

Step 3: Adjust the viewing angle

Sit in the driver's seat and adjust the mirror so that:

  • 👁️ See rear wheel your car (this is a guideline for estimating the distance).
  • 👁️ At the top of the reflection there was horizon line (helps to estimate the slope of the road).
  • 👁️ The blind spot has been reduced to a minimum (check by closing your eyes alternately and looking in the side/central mirrors).
💡

Once installed, drive through an empty parking lot and practice judging the distance to obstacles. Spherical mirrors always “bring” objects closer - you need to get used to it!

In Russia and most CIS countries installation of an additional mirror is not prohibited, but there are a number of requirements that are checked during technical inspection:

  • ⚖️ The mirror should not stand outside the dimensions of the car more than 20 cm (clause 7.16 of the Technical Regulations of the Customs Union).
  • ⚖️ It shouldn't blind other drivers (mirrors without anti-reflective coating are prohibited).
  • ⚖️ The fastening must be tough — backlash or vibrations lead to a fine (Article 12.5 of the Code of Administrative Offenses, Part 1).
  • ⚖️ If the mirror is attached to the door, the holes must be sealed (otherwise - corrosion and problems when selling the car).

In Europe, stricter rules apply: according to EU Directive 2003/97/EC, any modifications to mirrors must be certified. Therefore, if you are planning a trip to the EU, it is better to choose a mirror with the marking E-mark (for example, E4 77R-001234).

⚠️ Attention: If the mirror blocks the driver’s view (for example, it blocks part of the windshield), the traffic police inspector may issue a fine according to Part 1 Art. 12.5 Code of Administrative Offenses — 500 rub. or warning.

Common mistakes when choosing and installing

Even experienced drivers make mistakes that negate the benefits of an additional mirror. That's what can't do:

  1. Ignore adjustment after installation. A mirror placed “by eye” often gives a false sense of security. For example, if it is directed too downward, you will see asphalt instead of the oncoming lane.
  2. Choose cheap models without anti-reflective coating. In the sun, such a mirror turns into a “headlight”, blinding you at a critical moment.
  3. Attach the mirror with double-sided tape (unless provided by the manufacturer). Vibrations at speeds of 100+ km/h quickly tear it off, and losing a mirror on the highway is a risk of an accident.
  4. Use the mirror on one side only. For complete safety, you need to close the blind spots and right (for example, when changing lanes on a multi-lane road).

Another common problem is mirror fogging in rain or winter. This can be solved either by purchasing a heated model (for example, Autoexpert AE-M1), or by treating the inner surface with an anti-fog agent (for example, Sonax Anti-Fog).

⚠️ Attention: If, after installing the mirror, you notice that when overtaking you begin to cut off other cars more often, it means that the viewing angle is not set correctly. Go back to the adjustment step and check the visibility of the rear wheel.
Is it possible to use a mirror from a left-hand drive car on a right-hand drive car?

Technically yes, but it's impractical. Mirrors for left-hand drive cars are designed for viewing from the right, not the left. You will have to turn it upside down, which will distort the picture and make adjustment impossible. It is better to buy a specialized model for right-hand drive cars.

How often should you check the mirror mount?

At least once a month, and also after strong vibrations (for example, off-road driving). Loose bolts or peeling tape can cause the mirror to be lost while driving. Pay special attention in winter - temperature changes weaken the adhesive base.

Does the overtaking mirror help when parking?

Yes, but only if it is flat or aspherical. Spherical fisheye mirrors distort the distance to curbs and poles, which can lead to scratches. For parking, it is better to use standard mirrors or parking sensors.

Can the mirror bracket be painted in body color?

Yes, but only use automotive paints (eg. Motip or Kudo) and pre-degrease the surface. Do not paint the mirrors themselves - this will worsen the reflective properties. If the bracket is plastic, it is better to buy it immediately in the desired color.

What to do if the mirror shakes at speed?

Causes of vibrations:

  • Weak fastening - tighten the bolts or replace the rubber gaskets.
  • Poor quality bracket - replace it with a metal one (for example, from Fit System).
  • Resonating Frequency - Try moving the mirror 1-2cm up/down.

If all else fails, install the mirror on the windshield pillar - there is less vibration there.