The strange wiring phenomenon is described in a GM technical bulletin.
Which is more costly – a speeding ticket, or the replacement of your outside driver’s-side mirror on your Corvette C8 Corvette? General Motors has issued a technical bulletin revealing that the radar detectors and side-mirror glasses aren’t working properly. This could result in degraded mirror glasses that display a web-like pattern of lines that obscures the reflection on 2020-2022 models.
According to the bulletin, an aftermarket radar detector could be the cause. It is hardwired into your inside rear-view mirror. Unsightly damage could result from the detector causing a higher voltage to reach the side-view mirror. The radar detector could be tapped into the inside of the mirror’s X1 connector. This is located behind the front cover. To fix the problem, you will need to disconnect the jumper harness and replace the damaged outside mirror. Unfortunately, aftermarket devices are not covered by the warranty, so the owners will be responsible for the cost.
Although the post doesn’t go into detail about the phenomenon, the Corvette does have GM’s new digital vehicle platform which gives it a host advanced features such as over-the-air upgrades. The C8’s debut was delayed by six months due to the electric platform. Rumours suggested that the vehicle was experiencing an ” major electrical problem”.
It’s an unusual thing to witness and one many people won’t even think about. As cars add more technology, wiring, and software, it will make upgrading and modifing vehicles more difficult and more risky. GM has already locked down the C8’s ECU for cybersecurity. Accessing any wiring harness may not be as simple as it once was. What does that mean for the aftermarket?