If you own a Roadster, you're well aware of the struggle with the driver's side blind spot. To cope with this, you can either (a) do what I've been doing for decades and adjust your mirrors using the tried & true SAE method described here or (b) explore one of the aftermarket options available for our cars.
For the latter, some have removed the stock mirror assemblies all together and installed complete replacements like these from Transforged (no longer in business) while others have gone the stick-on route with ExtendView mirrors discussed here. The ExtendView glass is very unique and quite effective but, like some of you, I just couldn't live with the noticeable gap or the fact that they're held in place with tape
so I decided to try something different...
Lotus Garage had the part listed (P/N A121B0017F) so I placed the order and patiently waited for Lotus UK to deliver. It took about a month due to COVID but it finally arrived and I got around to installing it. Not only was this a simple swap but it uses an OE part which, IMHO, is the way to go as the factory fitment is perfect
I was curious if this would make a difference and I'm pleased to report it has. It didn't take long at all to get used to the widened field of view as it's what we're already accustomed to on the passenger (right) side of our US-spec cars. Here's a GIF animation that clearly illustrates the differences between the two:
And now... the best part: the price!
A121B0017F - 04a Glass, convex, script, federal, LHD, RH 1 - $21.13 USD
Mind you, shipping is a ridiculous $25 USD so make sure you have other parts you need to order or find a few others in your area and do a group buy to make it worthwhile. BTW, I see no reason UK, HK, AU or NZ folks couldn't do a similar mod with a LHD right side convex mirror as I'm sure that part is in stock at Lotus US should you decide to try this.
Finally, I have no idea how stringent or frequent everyone's requisite vehicle inspections are (we don't have them in California) but in the event you're due for one and there's any concern this would pose a problem, you can swap it back out quite easily.
For the latter, some have removed the stock mirror assemblies all together and installed complete replacements like these from Transforged (no longer in business) while others have gone the stick-on route with ExtendView mirrors discussed here. The ExtendView glass is very unique and quite effective but, like some of you, I just couldn't live with the noticeable gap or the fact that they're held in place with tape
so I decided to try something different...Why not install an OE Lotus Elise RHD left side convex mirror as my LHD driver's side mirror?
Lotus Garage had the part listed (P/N A121B0017F) so I placed the order and patiently waited for Lotus UK to deliver. It took about a month due to COVID but it finally arrived and I got around to installing it. Not only was this a simple swap but it uses an OE part which, IMHO, is the way to go as the factory fitment is perfect
I was curious if this would make a difference and I'm pleased to report it has. It didn't take long at all to get used to the widened field of view as it's what we're already accustomed to on the passenger (right) side of our US-spec cars. Here's a GIF animation that clearly illustrates the differences between the two:
And now... the best part: the price!
A121B0017F - 04a Glass, convex, script, federal, LHD, RH 1 - $21.13 USD
Mind you, shipping is a ridiculous $25 USD so make sure you have other parts you need to order or find a few others in your area and do a group buy to make it worthwhile. BTW, I see no reason UK, HK, AU or NZ folks couldn't do a similar mod with a LHD right side convex mirror as I'm sure that part is in stock at Lotus US should you decide to try this.
Finally, I have no idea how stringent or frequent everyone's requisite vehicle inspections are (we don't have them in California) but in the event you're due for one and there's any concern this would pose a problem, you can swap it back out quite easily.
