Mirror wing: wing mirrors explained

Everything you need to know about the mirror on the wing or door of your car.

What is a mirror wing?

"Mirror wing" is a common way of searching for a wing mirror, the external mirror fixed to the side of a vehicle. Its job is to show you what is alongside and behind you, which makes it a key safety item on every car, van and truck.

The main parts

• Mirror glass: the reflective plate. May be heated and may have a blue tint or auto-dimming.
• Backing plate and motor: allow adjustment, manually or by electric motor.
• Housing: the structure holding everything and attaching to the door.
• Cap: the outer plastic cover, often body coloured.
• Wiring and plug: for adjustment, heating, folding and indicators.
• Indicator repeater: an LED or bulb in the housing or cap on many cars.

Types of wing mirror

Manual and cable adjust

Adjusted by hand or with a lever inside the car. Simple and cheap to replace.

Electric adjust

Moved by a switch inside the car. Needs a plug with the right pins.

Heated

Contains a heating element to clear ice and condensation. Often linked to the rear screen heater.

Folding

Folds manually or by electric motor, helpful on narrow Irish streets.

With indicator, blind spot or camera

Extra electronics make these parts more specific and generally dearer.

Which side is which?

Read our short guide to the wing side mirror to avoid ordering the wrong side.

Frequently asked questions

Why is it called a wing mirror?

The name comes from early cars, where mirrors were mounted on the front wings. The term stuck even though most mirrors now attach to the door.

What is the difference between a wing mirror and a door mirror?

In everyday Irish and UK English they mean the same thing: the exterior side mirror of a car.

What are the main types of wing mirror?

Manual, cable adjust, electric, heated, folding and mirrors with built-in indicators or sensors.