What to Do When Car Rearview Mirrors Are Blurred by Rainwater?
2 Answers
Solutions for unclear rearview mirrors due to rainwater on rainy days are as follows: 1. Install rain guards, which are suitable for light rain: Rain guards can block water on the windows, keeping the rearview mirrors and side windows clear overall. 2. Use soap or dishwashing liquid: Simply spray soapy water or dishwashing liquid water on the rearview mirrors and let them dry. Cleaning agents contain surfactants, whose hydrophobic groups will push water outward due to physical properties, preventing the formation of water droplets. However, the effect is short-lived, lasting only about two days. 3. Apply water repellent to prevent water from sticking to the rearview mirror surface: Applying water repellent to rearview mirrors helps maintain clear visibility. The main component of glass water repellent is silicone oil, which changes the surface tension of water on the glass to prevent water from sticking to the rearview mirror surface.
I've encountered this issue quite a few times in my 20+ years of driving. Raindrops blurring the rearview mirrors on rainy days can indeed be a headache. Regular thorough cleaning of the mirrors during car washes helps maintain clarity. I always keep rain repellent spray handy for rainy days—it works well by making water roll off faster. Remember to turn on the rear defogger with the AC while driving; the warm air helps dehumidify and evaporate droplets. Also, drive slower and avoid rushing, as higher speeds with strong winds might worsen visibility. Long-term maintenance is crucial. For instance, I regularly check the mirror's electric heating system if the car has this feature—it's a game-changer with one-touch heating. Safety first—never change lanes blindly when visibility is poor; find a safe spot to pull over and address the issue. Additionally, applying rain repellent products before weather changes is wise—prevention is better than cure.
