Automatic Dimming Rear View Mirrors
An automatic dimming inside rear view mirror (1) is an available option. The automatic dimming mirror switch (3) allows the driver a manual control of whether the automatic dimming feature is operational. This switch is a momentary push button switch located on the lower rearward-facing surface of the mirror housing. When ON is selected, a green Light-Emitting Diode (LED) (2) on the mirror housing adjacent to the switch illuminates to indicate that the automatic dimming mirror is turned ON. When OFF is selected, the LED is extinguished. If the vehicle is equipped with an optional driver side automatic dimming outside rear view mirror, the operation of that mirror is controlled by the same switch and inputs as the inside rear view mirror.
The automatic dimming mirrors are able to automatically change their reflectance level. A thin layer of electrochromic material between two pieces of conductive glass make up the face of the mirror. Two photocell sensors are used to monitor light levels and adjust the reflectance of both the inside and driver side outside mirrors. This change in reflectance helps to reduce the glare of headlamps approaching the vehicle from the rear.
The ambient photocell light sensor faces forward, to detect the outside light levels. The headlamp photocell light sensor (4) is located on the mirror housing to one side of the switch and facing rearward, to detect the light level received at the rear window side of the mirror. When the difference between the two light levels becomes too great (the light level received at the rear of the mirror is much higher than that at the front of the mirror), the mirror begins to darken. The mirror also monitors the backup lamp circuit, and will automatically disable its self-dimming feature whenever the transmission gear selector is in the REVERSE position.