How to Wire Aftermarket Heated Mirrors on a Jeep Gladiator?

April 16, 2024

For many Jeep owners, the process of installing aftermarket heated mirrors can seem like a daunting task. However, with the right tools, a bit of patience, and some guidance, you can easily accomplish this modification. So, if you’re looking to enhance the visibility of your Jeep Gladiator through the installation of heated mirrors, or if you’re simply an enthusiast looking to expand your knowledge about your vehicle, you’ve come to the right place. This article will take you through a step-by-step guide on how to wire aftermarket heated mirrors on your Jeep Gladiator.

Understanding the Basics

Before we delve into the process, it’s crucial to first understand the basics of a heated mirror and how it functions. A heated mirror is primarily designed to clear off condensation and frost that often blurs the visibility through the mirror during colder seasons. The mirror achieves this through a heat element that is connected to the vehicle’s electrical system. The power is usually supplied through a relay switch which is controlled either manually or via detection sensors.

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Now that we’ve covered the fundamentals let’s proceed to the actual wiring process. Remember, the keyword here is "patience," since wiring these mirrors requires careful attention to details.

Gathering the Required Tools and Materials

Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials. This includes the aftermarket heated mirrors, a mirror switch, wires, a wiring diagram, relay, and a door panel removal tool. Be sure to also have a wire stripper and electrical tape handy.

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You can purchase these items from any auto-parts store. It’s also a good idea to check online forums or contact Jeep-specific forums for recommendations on the best tools and materials to use.

Removing the Door Panel

To start with, you’ll need to remove the door panel on your Jeep Gladiator. This is where the door panel removal tool comes in handy. Use it to gently pry off the panel, ensuring that you don’t damage the clips holding it in place. Once the panel is removed, you’ll be able to see the mirror’s base and its wiring harness.

Wiring the Heated Mirrors

First, connect the new mirror to the existing wiring harness in your Jeep Gladiator. Depending on the model of the aftermarket mirror you purchased, it may come with a plug that fits directly into the existing harness. However, if it doesn’t, you’ll have to cut the wires on the new mirror and splice them into the existing wires on the harness.

Here, the wiring diagram will be your guide. Follow it to connect the power wires from the new mirror to the power wires on the harness. Remember to use the wire stripper to expose the metal ends of the wires before you twist them together. Afterward, use the electrical tape to securely cover the exposed wires.

Making the Mirrors Heated

To make the mirrors heated, you’ll need to wire them to the relay switch. This switch will control the flow of power to the mirrors, allowing you to turn the heating function on and off as needed.

Again, follow the wiring diagram to ensure you’re connecting the right wires to the relay. Typically, you’ll need to connect the power wire from the relay to the power wire on the mirrors, and the ground wire from the relay to a suitable grounding point on your Jeep Gladiator.

Connecting the Heated Mirrors to the Switch

With the relay wired to the mirrors, you can now connect the mirrors to the switch. This will allow you to control the heating function from inside your truck.

To do this, you’ll need to run a wire from the relay to the switch, which is usually located on the door panel. Once you’ve connected the wire, you can then reinstall the door panel.

This article has provided a comprehensive guide on how to wire aftermarket heated mirrors on a Jeep Gladiator. It’s important to remember that while this process can be time-consuming, having the ability to clear off condensation and frost at the click of a button makes it absolutely worth it. So, take your time, follow these steps, and in no time, you’ll be enjoying improved visibility on your Jeep Gladiator.

Remember, wiring aftermarket heated mirrors on your Jeep Gladiator not only improves your driving experience but also adds to the overall value of your vehicle. So, don’t be deterred by the process; embrace it, and enjoy the journey and the outcome.

Installing Blind Spot Cross Path Detection

Safety should be of utmost concern while driving, especially when changing lanes or making turns. As a Jeep Gladiator owner, you can enhance your safety by installing a blind spot cross path detection system along with your heated mirrors. By wiring the heated mirrors to the path detection system, they will alert you of any vehicles in your blind spot.

Blind spot cross path detection is a feature that uses radar sensors to monitor the areas behind and beside your Gladiator. It alerts you via visual and audible warnings if a vehicle is detected in these blind spots. This feature can be a lifesaver when reversing out of a parking space or changing lanes on the highway.

To wire the system to your aftermarket heated mirrors, you’ll need to connect the power wire from the mirrors to the power wire on the blind spot detection system. The ground wire from the system should be connected to a suitable grounding point on your Jeep Gladiator. Typically, the detection system and the heated mirrors share power from the same relay switch.

Once you have wired the blind spot cross path detection system to the heated mirrors and installed the system’s sensors on the exterior of your Gladiator, you can test it to ensure everything is functioning properly. You can do this by having a friend walk around your parked vehicle while you observe the mirrors and listen for any alerts.

Remember, safety is everyone’s responsibility. The installation of a blind spot cross path detection system equips you with an extra set of eyes, making your ride safer. So, go ahead and click expand your safety features.

Incorporating Oracle Lighting

When we talk about visibility, lighting plays a crucial role. Oracle Lighting offers an extensive range of high-performance lighting products that can be paired beautifully with your aftermarket heated mirrors.

One of their popular products that would work exceptionally well with your heated mirrors is the LED side mirror caps. These caps not only enhance your Jeep Gladiator’s exterior aesthetics but also provide a bright light to illuminate the path around your vehicle.

To wire the Oracle Lighting to your power mirror, you’ll need to connect the power wire from the lighting to the power wire on the mirror. The ground wire from the lighting should be connected to a suitable grounding point on your Jeep Gladiator.

Once you’ve connected the wires, you can test the Oracle Lighting to ensure it’s functioning properly. Simply turn on the Jeep, and toggle the lighting switch on and off. The lights should respond accordingly.

Incorporating Oracle Lighting into your Jeep Gladiator not only boosts visibility but also creates a modern, stylish appearance. Enhance your Jeep’s exterior by adding Oracle Lighting to your heated mirrors.

Conclusion

Installing aftermarket heated mirrors on your Jeep Gladiator is a rewarding project that improves your vehicle’s functionality and safety. By incorporating a blind spot cross path detection system and Oracle Lighting, you’re not only enhancing visibility but also taking a step to make your journeys safer and more enjoyable.

In conclusion, having heated mirrors is not just for the luxury of a clear view. They offer significant benefits, including increased safety, visibility, and vehicle value. So, whether you’re an enthusiast looking to expand your knowledge or a Jeep Gladiator owner seeking to improve your vehicle, this guide offers a comprehensive path to achieving that goal.

Remember, this might seem like a tough challenge, but with patience and careful attention to details, you will certainly conquer it. So, gear up for your next adventure with comfort, convenience, and improved safety, courtesy of your newly installed aftermarket heated mirrors on your Jeep Gladiator.