If you own a Chevy truck, you might want to install tow mirrors for safer and more convenient towing. But before you start, you need to know how to wire them properly. In this article, we’ll provide you with a detailed Chevy tow mirror wiring diagram that will make the installation process easier and more manageable.
What Are Tow Mirrors?
Tow mirrors are larger and more extended mirrors that you can attach to your truck’s side mirrors. These mirrors allow you to see more of the road behind you and provide better visibility when towing a trailer. They also help you avoid blind spots that can be dangerous when changing lanes or merging onto the highway.
If you’re planning to install tow mirrors on your Chevy truck, you’ll need to know how to wire them correctly. Let’s take a look at the steps you need to follow.
Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials
Before you start wiring your tow mirrors, you’ll need to gather a few tools and materials. You’ll need:
| Tools | Materials |
|---|---|
| – Screwdriver | – Tow mirrors |
| – Pliers | – Wire stripper |
| – Wire cutter | – Electrical tape |
| – Crimping tool | – Zip ties |
Make sure you have all of these tools and materials before you start wiring your tow mirrors.
Step 2: Remove the Door Panel
The first step to wiring your Chevy tow mirrors is to remove the door panel. To do this, you’ll need to:
- Use a screwdriver to remove the screws holding the door panel in place.
- Use a pry tool to gently remove the clips holding the door panel to the door.
- Disconnect any electrical connectors for the window switches, door locks, and mirrors.
Once you’ve removed the door panel, you’ll have access to the mirror wiring harness.
Step 3: Identify the Wiring Harness
Before you start wiring your tow mirrors, you need to identify the wiring harness for your Chevy truck. The wiring harness is usually located behind the door panel and contains the wires for your stock mirrors.
Identify the color codes for the wires in the harness. Usually, the wires are color-coded as follows:
| Wire Color | Function |
|---|---|
| Black | Ground |
| Green | Left Turn/Brake |
| Yellow | Reverse Light |
| Light Green | Right Turn/Brake |
| Light Blue | Power |
Make sure to take note of these color codes as you’ll need them later when wiring your tow mirrors.
Step 4: Install the Tow Mirrors
The next step is to install your tow mirrors. Follow the installation instructions that come with your tow mirrors carefully. Make sure that the mirrors are installed securely and are in the correct position.
Step 5: Wire the Tow Mirrors
The final step is to wire your tow mirrors. Here’s how:
- Strip the ends of the wires on your tow mirrors.
- Match the wire color codes on the tow mirrors with the wire color codes on the wiring harness.
- Crimp the wires together using a crimping tool.
- Wrap the crimped wires with electrical tape to secure them.
- Tuck the wires neatly back into the door panel.
- Reconnect any electrical connectors for the window switches, door locks, and mirrors.
- Replace the door panel and secure it with screws and clips.
- Test your tow mirrors to make sure they’re working correctly.
FAQs
Q: Why do I need tow mirrors?
A: Tow mirrors provide better visibility when towing a trailer. They help you avoid blind spots and see more of the road behind you.
Q: Can I install tow mirrors myself?
A: Yes, you can install tow mirrors yourself. Just make sure to follow the installation instructions carefully and wire them correctly.
Q: Do I need to take my truck to a mechanic to wire my tow mirrors?
A: No, you can wire your tow mirrors yourself if you’re comfortable working with electrical wiring. However, if you’re unsure or don’t feel confident, it’s always best to take your truck to a mechanic or professional installer.
Q: How do I know which wire goes where?
A: You need to identify the wire color codes on your truck’s wiring harness and match them with the wire color codes on your tow mirrors. Refer to the table above for the most common wire color codes.
Q: What if my tow mirrors don’t work after I’ve wired them?
A: Check your connections and make sure you’ve crimped the wires together securely. Also, make sure you’ve connected the wires to the correct wires on your truck’s wiring harness. If you’re still having issues, consult the troubleshooting section of your tow mirror installation instructions or contact the manufacturer for assistance.
With our comprehensive Chevy tow mirror wiring diagram, wiring your tow mirrors should be a breeze. Just follow the steps carefully, and you’ll be on your way to safer and more convenient towing.
