Honda CR-V Oem Options Installation Review — Cost
Honda CR-V heated wide-angle mirror upgrade: Approx. ₩300,000 (USD $220). Significantly reduces blind spots and clears rain.
Why Your Honda CR-V Needs Heated Side Mirrors
The Honda CR-V is a capable SUV, but it's missing a seemingly small but crucial feature: heated side mirrors. Many drivers experience the frustration of raindrops obscuring their view, a common issue that's particularly problematic for the CR-V, which already has a wider blind spot than some vehicles. Adding heated mirrors isn't just a luxury; it's a significant safety enhancement, especially for navigating busy roads and highways.
Without heated mirrors, water droplets accumulate, degrading visibility. This can lead to dangerous situations, like failing to spot a vehicle merging into your lane or emerging from a blind spot. Upgrading your side mirrors is a smart solution to address these safety concerns and ensure a clearer view in all weather conditions.
Introducing BSM Wide-Angle Mirrors with Heating
BSM Wide-Angle Mirrors are designed to significantly reduce blind spots. They utilize a more pronounced curve (800R) compared to standard factory mirrors (typically 500R), offering a much broader field of vision. The specific product used in this review is manufactured using the same mold process as OEM parts, ensuring a factory-like fit and finish. Crucially, these mirrors integrate both wide-angle capabilities and heating elements.
Developed specifically for the Honda CR-V, these mirrors do more than just expand your view. The built-in heating function quickly dries moisture on the mirror surface, ensuring clear visibility even during rain. This upgrade makes safe driving a reality for CR-V owners.
Honda CR-V Heated Mirror Installation Process
The installation process began with inspecting the 2023 Honda CR-V. As expected, the factory side mirrors lacked any wiring for heating elements. To enable the heating function, dedicated wiring had to be installed. The entire procedure typically takes about 1.5 hours.
Installation process:
- Install the dedicated heating element wiring harness, tailored to the vehicle.
- Completely remove the existing factory side mirrors.
- Install the new BSM wide-angle mirrors, ensuring a 1:1 replacement.
- Connect and integrate the heating switch, often linking it to an existing vehicle function for convenience.
A key aspect of the installation is the wiring and switch integration. In this case, instead of adding a separate switch, the side mirror heating was linked to the rear defroster button. This means the side mirror heaters activate automatically whenever the rear window defroster is turned on, greatly enhancing user convenience.
Detailed Specifications of the Upgrade
Vehicle: 2023 Honda CR-V
Service: BSM Wide-Angle Mirror Replacement with Heated Mirror Wiring
Product Used: Honda CR-V Specific BSM Wide-Angle Mirror (800R curve, with heating element)
Estimated Installation Time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Heating System: Integrated with 12V factory heating system
Real-World Results After Installation
The owner reported a significant improvement in their driving experience. The most immediate benefit was the vastly expanded mirror view, which noticeably reduced blind spots. This made lane changes and right turns much safer, allowing for quicker detection of surrounding vehicles. The difference in rainy weather was particularly striking. With the heating function activated, moisture on the mirrors evaporated within seconds. What used to be a frustratingly blurred view is now consistently clear, a welcome change especially on highways or in foggy conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does OEM option and factory upgrade installation cost for a Honda CR-V?
The installation of heated wide-angle mirrors on a Honda CR-V, as performed in Korea, cost approximately ₩300,000 (around $220 USD). Typical US pricing for similar aftermarket mirror upgrades can range from $150 to $300, depending on features and installation complexity.
Q. How long does OEM options installation take on a Honda CR-V?
This specific OEM option upgrade, involving the replacement of side mirrors with heated, wide-angle units and wiring, typically takes about 1.5 hours to complete. For long-term durability, ensure the wiring connections remain secure and dry, and periodically clean the mirror surfaces with a mild glass cleaner.
Q. Are OEM options worth adding after purchase for a Honda CR-V?
Adding heated wide-angle mirrors is highly recommended for Honda CR-V owners, especially those who frequently drive in adverse weather conditions or prioritize enhanced safety. The upgrade offers a significant improvement in visibility and blind-spot reduction, providing a strong value proposition for safer driving.
Q. How are OEM factory options installed on a Honda CR-V?
Installation involves removing the original side mirrors, fitting the new mirrors with integrated heating elements, and running dedicated wiring harnesses. The heating function is then typically integrated with an existing vehicle switch, such as the rear defroster, for seamless operation.
Q. What is the difference between dealer-installed options and aftermarket upgrades for a Honda CR-V?
Dealer-installed options, often referred to as OEM options or factory upgrades, are typically designed to integrate seamlessly with the vehicle's existing systems and aesthetics. Aftermarket upgrades, like the BSM wide-angle mirrors used here, can offer enhanced features not available from the factory, such as superior wide-angle views combined with heating, often at a competitive price point.
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