Automatic mirrow dimmer

[M Barnett]

My 94 SLT came with the automatic dimmer on the inside mirrow. There is a small button switch on the bottom that lights when the mirrow dimmer is turned on. Mine doesn't light anymore and was wondering has anybody else fixed this problem? I don't know if the mirrow is dimming or not, seldom drive after dark.

Thanks=====Michael

 

[Cobra]

Mirror dimmer

My truck has that type of mirror but it has never worked. I had it back to the dealer for a new lift pump and I mentioned it to them. When I picked up the truck they said they fixed the mirror. Sorry but it still didn't work. They said the only way for it to work properly was to replace it. I don't want them to full with my truck and it isn't really important so I'll just live with it.

 

[lschultz]

To me they don't work that good. I can tell very little difference in it turned on. I would rather have the manual one. Another one of Dodges great engineers ideas.

 

[Animal]

On my 97 fuse #15 was blown, it also is for the backup lights. After replacement it, it works again.

 

[billr]

On my 02 the dimmer works great after dark.

 

[klenger]

The change from on and off is not as significant if you have a rear tinted window. With clear glass, the change is noticable.

 

[chuck3]

Mine seems to work fine!

 

[M Barnett]

Thanks for all the advise fellows. I checked the fuse and its O-K. Its probably a $. 50 lite bulb that can't be changed, so will have to buy an $800 mirrow! ----Michael Az

 

[illflem]

Mine work well also, but I surely won't fix it when broken if doing so involved any money. The dimming mirror is one of the $250 options that DC probably spends $10 on.

 

[Wirenut]

I didnt even know they made such a thing til I bought my '97. Mine works good and I love that option. Won't own another vehicle without it. Reminds me of those automatic welders face shields... now I gotta get one of those Then I can really be a high-tech redneck

 

[OILBRNR]

Mine works great too. The button must be in the up or depressed position to work.



These work by compairing the oncoming light with a photo sensor on the front of the mirror, to the sensor on the glass side that is receiving light from the cars behind you. The greater the difference the darker the glass gets. They do take several seconds to make a noticible transition.



You can test the functionality using a flashlight. Just cover the front sensor with your finger (simulating dark night, no outside light) and shine the flashlight on the glass side sensor. You should see a slow darking. Your ignition needs to be on...

 

[M Barnett]

Great info, Oilbrnr. Lot of good info there I didn't know. Now I know how to test it. -----Michael B

 

[JStemann]

I "bombed" mine

I got tired of the slow reaction time and it doesn't work very well in town, with all of the street lights.



A piece of electrical tape on the back side light sensor and now mine is dimmed all the time. Kinda like looking thru tinted window in daytime and no waiting for dimming to start at nite.



jeff

 

[jwgary]

I have thought of the tape idea on days that the setting sun is right in the middle of the mirror. If I reach up and cover the back side it will dim enough to be bareable. Now if I could only do something about those huge towing mirrors...

 

[smilliron]

Just use a Chevy Mirror!

Real cheap from junkyard... has compass, temp, and auto dim. Pretty nice for people like me who didn't get the comp. in the overhead console...

 

[RJOL]

Most of these mirrors are made for major manufacturers by one or two companies. One of the major ones is Gentex. You can get an idea of what they do at the following site:



http://www.mitocorp.com/nvsmirro.htm



Also, there are used ones on eBay going for about $100... Here is one on auction now...



http://cgi.ebay.com/aw-cgi/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=1315423412



I have one on my Jeep, and will be installing one on my truck as soon as it arrives...

 

[Cooker]

Donnelly is another major company that produces these mirrors. Both are here in West Michigan, but do you think I know anyone that works there so I could get a freebie



Serioulsy though, I bought my auto dimming mirror from a junkyard here locally for $5. I even got most of the mirrors wiring harness out of the truck so installation was a snap.



I really think the thing works good.



JMHO,

Ryan

 

[RJOL]

Originally posted by Cooker



Serioulsy though, I bought my auto dimming mirror from a junkyard here locally for $5. I even got most of the mirrors wiring harness out of the truck so installation was a snap.

Might be a little more for the ones with temperature and compass built in... .

 

[rono]

I have my windows tinted and with the 4x4 sitting as high as it does, I don't think the headlights behind me hit the sensor right to make the auto-dimmer to work. I just duck my head or run off and leave them.

ron.