BMW 3 Series G20 Wide Angle Mirror Upgrade Review

Addressing the BMW 3 Series G20's Narrow Side Mirror View

Many BMW 3 Series G20 owners find the stock side mirrors offer a limited field of vision, a common trait in many imported vehicles designed for European roads. These mirrors often prioritize accurately gauging the speed of approaching vehicles over providing a broad view of adjacent lanes, which is crucial for frequent lane changes and navigating tight parking spaces in Korea. The standard mirrors typically have a curvature of 1200R or higher, presenting a relatively flat reflection that shows objects at their true size but restricts the overall visible area. This necessitates more frequent head and eye movements, increasing the risk of accidents in dynamic driving situations.

The Opticglass Wide-Angle Mirror Solution

Wide-angle mirrors offer a practical solution by employing a lower curvature radius to expand the viewing area. Opticglass mirrors, for instance, utilize an optimal 680R curvature, significantly reducing blind spots compared to the stock 1200R+ mirrors. Beyond just widening the view, Opticglass mirrors feature chrome coating to mitigate glare from headlights and sunlight, providing a comfortable view even without an auto-dimming (ECM) function. Furthermore, a built-in hydrophobic coating ensures water beads off, maintaining clear visibility in rainy conditions. These combined features contribute to a safer and more relaxed driving experience.

Installation Process for BMW 3 Series G20 Wide-Angle Mirrors

The installation of Opticglass wide-angle mirrors on a BMW 3 Series G20 is a precise process typically completed in about 40 minutes by skilled technicians. Here’s a breakdown of the steps involved:

1. Preparation: The area around the side mirror cover is carefully masked with tape to prevent any scratches to the vehicle's paintwork.
2. Mirror Removal: The original side mirror glass is gently detached, and its electrical connectors, including those for heating elements, are disconnected.
3. Module Transfer (if applicable): For G20 models equipped with Blind Spot Assist (BSA/BSD), the relevant sensor module is carefully transferred from the original mirror to the new wide-angle mirror.
4. Installation: The new Opticglass wide-angle mirror is securely fitted into the mirror housing, and all electrical connections are re-established.
5. Final Check: The mirror is tested to ensure proper function, including any integrated features like heating or blind-spot monitoring, before the mirror cover is reattached.

This upgrade not only enhances safety by eliminating blind spots but also improves overall driving comfort, making it a worthwhile modification for BMW 3 Series G20 owners.