Fender mirrors are exterior rear-view mirrors mounted on top of the front fenders or near the front of the hood, rather than on the doors. This design was largely discontinued in mass-market vehicles due to evolving safety regulations, technological advancements, and shifting consumer preferences, though they are still occasionally found in Japan.

Description and Function: The primary characteristic of fender mirrors is their forward placement, which was intended to allow drivers to view the mirrors using less head movement, keeping their eyes closer to the road ahead. Proponents, such as Japanese taxi drivers, noted they could offer a wider field of view with reduced blind spots when properly adjusted. However, they presented functional drawbacks:

Visibility: Because they are farther from the driver's eyes, objects in the mirror appear smaller and can be harder to discern with a quick glance compared to modern door mirrors.

Adjustability: Early models often required two people or a manual exterior adjustment, as they lacked the convenient interior cable or power adjustment mechanisms standard today.

Vibration: Being solid-mounted to the fender can cause them to jiggle while driving, which can slightly obstruct the view.

Aerodynamics & Style: They can create more wind resistance and noise than door mirrors, and their unique look was often considered out of place on Western-designed vehicles.

Reasons for Discontinuation: The transition away from fender mirrors was driven by several factors:

Safety Regulations: Stricter automotive safety guidelines in the 1970s and 1980s mandated mirrors that were more effective at reducing blind spots and easier for the driver to adjust and use quickly. This led to the development and standardization of larger, more accessible door-mounted mirrors.

Market Preference: Outside of Japan, consumers generally preferred the styling and practicality of door mirrors.

Technological Advancements: The rise of remote-cable and power-adjusted mirrors made door mounting more practical and user-friendly.