[Shalmaneser64]

Anyone replaced their rear view mirror recently? I realize a wider one is pretty much pointless for seeing out the back because of the seats, but I’m considering doing so with one that has a built in display, in order to tie in some cameras. From what I can tell, the mirror mount is a standard late model Mercedes mount.

 

[vadsoom]

I installed one of those rear-view camera/dashcam mirrors and would not go back. I mounted the rear camera in the wiper path and near one of the defrost heating elements to make sure it always stays clear. It’s a vast improvement in safety because the field of view is much wider than the rear-view mirror, plus the seats aren’t in the way. The only caveat is the image is compressed a bit so “objects may be closer than they appear” so be careful.

As an extra benefit, the dashcam records everything from front and rear views. I’ve submitted a few videos of “highway bullies” to my local law enforcement for “processing.”

I think only Smart very drivers understand the true essence of highway bullies. I’ve had trucks on my back bumper so close I could not see their license plates.

 

[Shalmaneser64]

I installed one of those rear-view camera/dashcam mirrors and would not go back. I mounted the rear camera in the wiper path and near one of the defrost heating elements to make sure it always stays clear. It’s a vast improvement in safety because the field of view is much wider than the rear-view mirror, plus the seats aren’t in the way. The only caveat is the image is compressed a bit so “objects may be closer than they appear” so be careful.

As an extra benefit, the dashcam records everything from front and rear views. I’ve submitted a few videos of “highway bullies” to my local law enforcement for “processing.”

I think only Smart very drivers understand the true essence of highway bullies. I’ve had trucks on my back bumper so close I could not see their license plates.

So what model did you install? I’ve seen some that record, and like the idea. I’ve encountered a few bullies myself. Some really bad drivers out there.

 

[SmartieAZ]

I use a dashcam mirror as well. I wouldn't drive without one! It sits just on top of the old one.

 

[vadsoom]

I got this one and have been very happy with It:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PFPJ2DJ/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_awdb_t1_yaJLEb43Y10F8

Yeah. I love my Smart, but it seems to bring out the “highway bullies” in larger numbers than any other car I’ve ever owned. People will cut me off, encroach into the lane, brake suddenly and other dangerous nonsense FAR more frequently when I’m driving my Smart than any of my other cars. Most drivers would not even think of an unsafe lane change in front of my old Nissan Armada, but will cut my Smart off like it’s not even there.

I think some of the reason is the Smart’s small size is akin to a motorcycle. I had a few encounters where I talk to the other driver afterwards and was told, “I’m sorry, I didn’t see you.” I keep my lights on for safety most of the time.

 

[SmartieAZ]

I bought this one, but I paid only 64$ new... I use it as well in my RV with the rear view camera.
Dashcam

 

[Mplsgrrl]

I got this one and have been very happy with It:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07PFPJ2DJ/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_awdb_t1_yaJLEb43Y10F8

Yeah. I love my Smart, but it seems to bring out the “highway bullies” in larger numbers than any other car I’ve ever owned. People will cut me off, encroach into the lane, brake suddenly and other dangerous nonsense FAR more frequently when I’m driving my Smart than any of my other cars. Most drivers would not even think of an unsafe lane change in front of my old Nissan Armada, but will cut my Smart off like it’s not even there.

I think some of the reason is the Smart’s small size is akin to a motorcycle. I had a few encounters where I talk to the other driver afterwards and was told, “I’m sorry, I didn’t see you.” I keep my lights on for safety most of the time.

I am a new Smart owner...2009...I would like a larger rear view mirror... read your post but the Amazon link doesn't work...can you tell me what you bought and used? Thanks...

 

[misfitsailor]

I had to remove my mirror, It blocked my forward view! I keep it under the seat in case a cop ever mentions it.

 

[Mplsgrrl]

Hmmm...hadn't thought of that..too big and illegal!

 

[Jo e Lefors]

I had to remove my mirror, It blocked my forward view! I keep it under the seat in case a cop ever mentions it.

I will try and cover a few things here.
The size of the seats in the smart car dictated the small mirror that allows you to see the area in between the seats.
Granted I have a convertible which has a smaller rear window but you are still limited to the view between your seats.

A larger rearview mirror is almost useless in these cars. Smart cars were fitted with two outside mirrors and in almost every State it is completely legal to not have a rear view mirror if you have two functional outside mirrors.

Picture deleted due to non approval by a member.

 

[smark]

^^^^^ Ditto a larger review mirror is worthless. All you’ll see is the seat backs of the car, or the grill of a Mack truck.

 

[misfitsailor]

Yes, many vehicles don't even have windows in the rear, so a mirror would be silly. Our motorhome came with a center mirror...but no rear window! How's that for ludicrous? In the case of the Smart, I found myself having to cant my head to look under the mirror for cars on my right at intersections. Hey, motorcyclists and big-rig drivers do fine with only side mirrors.

 

[Mplsgrrl]

Okay! Thanks to all...I think that for now I will not replace with bigger mirror... I appreciate all the replies...