If you've ever looked closely at your car's side mirrors, you may have noticed small, almost imperceptible holes in their frame. They're not there by chance, and they have a very important safety-related function.
What are these holes for?
These holes are actually drainage holes. Their main job is to drain water that can accumulate in the mirror housing during rain or when washing the car. If water gets stuck inside, it can cause several problems:
Freezing: In the winter, if water freezes, it can damage the electrical components of the mirror, such as the adjustment and heating mechanisms. The expanding ice can even crack the housing.
Corrosion: The constant accumulation of moisture can lead to corrosion of the metal parts inside the the mirror, which will shorten its life.
Impaired visibility: In rare cases, if water accumulates inside the mirror, it can seep between the glass and the frame, causing image distortion or spotting.
So, while they may seem like a minor detail, these little holes actually play a key role in keeping the mirrors functional and the safety of the vehicle. The next time you wash your car or it rains, you'll know that these little holes serve an important function.