Honda CR-V Oem Options Installation Review — Cost
Honda CR-V heated mirror & BSM wide-angle upgrade: ₩400,000. Improves visibility in bad weather and reduces blind spots.
Honda CR-V Mirror Upgrade: Heated Mirrors & BSM Wide-Angle Installation
The Honda CR-V is a popular SUV, but it notably lacks heated side mirrors. This can be a significant inconvenience, especially in wet or cold weather when condensation or frost can severely impair visibility. This review details a common retrofit service performed in Korea that addresses this issue by adding heating elements and upgrading to BSM (Blind Spot Monitoring) wide-angle mirrors. We'll walk through the process, the benefits, and whether this factory option retrofit is worth the investment.
Addressing Honda CR-V Mirror Deficiencies
Many CR-V owners find the lack of heated mirrors frustrating. Water droplets on the mirror surface during rain or frost in winter can obscure your view, creating a safety hazard. Furthermore, the stock CR-V mirrors often have a considerable blind spot, making lane changes riskier. This particular installation aimed to solve both problems simultaneously: adding essential heating functionality and expanding the field of vision with wide-angle mirrors that also incorporate BSM (Blind Spot Monitoring) capabilities.
Installation Process: Heated Mirrors & Wide-Angle Upgrade
The process begins with a thorough inspection of the existing side mirrors. Since the factory mirrors lack wiring for heating elements, a dedicated wiring harness must be installed. Technicians plan the wiring route, integrating it with the vehicle's electrical system, often linking it to the rear defroster circuit for convenient operation. The goal is to minimize visible wiring and ensure a stable connection without interfering with other electronic components.
Installation process:
- Mirror Removal: The side mirror assembly is carefully detached from the door. This involves removing the plastic trim and any retaining screws, while also disconnecting the power cable for the electric mirror adjustment.
- Wiring Installation: A new wiring harness for the heating element is run from the interior, typically through the door panel, to the mirror housing. This requires careful routing to avoid sharp edges and secure attachment using clips. The wiring must be robust enough to handle the required current (around 10A).
- Mirror Replacement: The original mirror glass is replaced with a new 800R curvature wide-angle mirror. This type of mirror offers a broader field of view (approximately 20-30 degrees wider) compared to the standard flat mirror, significantly reducing blind spots.
- Integration and Testing: The new wiring is connected, and the mirror assembly is reinstalled. The heating function is typically integrated with the rear defroster switch, meaning the mirrors heat up when the rear window defroster is activated. This eliminates the need for an extra switch and is practical, as mirror heating is most needed in conditions where the rear defroster is also used. The system is then tested to ensure proper operation of both the heating elements and the mirror's motorized functions.
Before & After: Enhanced Visibility and Safety
The transformation is significant. After the installation, the CR-V benefits from clear side mirrors in adverse weather conditions, thanks to the integrated heating elements. The wide-angle mirrors provide a much-improved view of adjacent lanes and the area behind the vehicle, drastically reducing blind spots. This upgrade enhances driver confidence, particularly during lane changes and while navigating busy traffic. The integration with the rear defroster switch makes operation seamless and intuitive.
The cost for this comprehensive upgrade, including both the heated mirror function and the BSM wide-angle mirror replacement, was approximately ₩400,000 (around $300 USD, subject to exchange rates) when performed at the service center in Korea. This price reflects the parts and labor involved in a professional installation. While this service was performed in Korea, the parts and process are applicable globally for owners seeking similar enhancements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does OEM option and factory upgrade installation cost for a Honda CR-V?
This specific OEM option retrofit for heated mirrors and BSM wide-angle mirrors on a Honda CR-V cost approximately ₩400,000 in Korea. Similar upgrades in the US can range from $250 to $500 depending on the parts and labor.
Q. How long does OEM options installation take on a Honda CR-V?
The installation of heated mirrors and wide-angle mirrors typically takes 2-3 hours. For long-term durability, ensure the wiring connections remain secure and free from corrosion; periodic checks of the mirror's electrical function are recommended.
Q. Are OEM options worth adding after purchase for a Honda CR-V?
Adding heated mirrors and wide-angle mirrors is highly recommended for Honda CR-V owners who frequently drive in adverse weather or are concerned about blind spots. The enhanced safety and convenience significantly improve the driving experience.
Q. How are OEM factory options installed on a Honda CR-V?
Installation involves carefully removing the original side mirrors, running a new wiring harness for the heating elements, replacing the mirror glass with a wide-angle version, and integrating the heating function with the vehicle's rear defroster switch. Finally, the assembly is reinstalled and tested.
Q. What is the difference between dealer-installed options and aftermarket upgrades for a Honda CR-V?
Dealer-installed options, like this heated mirror retrofit, are often designed to integrate seamlessly with the vehicle's existing systems and may use OEM-equivalent parts. Aftermarket upgrades can offer more variety but may require more complex installation and might not integrate as cleanly.
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