Fixing a broken side mirror on your car can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it is often something you can tackle yourself. In most cases, replacing a side mirror is easier and less expensive than paying a mechanic or auto body shop to do the repair. This article will walk through the steps for replacing a side mirror and provide tips for doing it safely and properly.
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What you’ll need
Before starting any automotive repair project, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools and parts. Here’s what you’ll need to replace a side mirror:
- Replacement side mirror – Make sure to get an OEM (original equipment manufacturer) mirror designed specifically for your vehicle’s make, model, and year. Aftermarket mirrors may not fit right.
- Screwdrivers – Both Phillips and flathead screwdrivers in various sizes.
- Socket wrench with sockets – To remove any bolts securing the mirror.
- Pliers – Both needle nose and standard pliers can help in mirror removal and installation.
- Electrical tape – To protect and insulate any exposed wiring.
- Trim removal tools – Helpful for unclipsing molding without damage.
- Glass cleaner and rags – To clean the door and mirror mounting area before installation.
You may also need wires, connectors, or a splicing kit depending on your mirror’s electrical system. It’s a good idea to inspect the mirror and research a tutorial for your specific vehicle to identify any other unique tools or parts required.
Removing the old side mirror
With your replacement mirror and tools gathered, you’re ready to start removing the broken mirror from your vehicle. Follow these steps:
- Turn the vehicle off and disconnect the battery – This allows you to safely work on the electrical connections.
- Remove any covers/caps to access bolts – There may be plastic covers that need to be popped off with trim tools before you can access the mirror mount bolts.
- Remove the mounting bolts – Using your wrench or socket set, remove the bolts holding the mirror and mount to the door frame. There are typically 2-4 bolts.
- Unplug the electrical connector – The mirror probably has electrical wires running into the door that need to be unplugged before fully removing it.
- Detach the mirror – Once unbolted and unplugged, you can detach the mirror assembly from the door.
- Use tape to cover any exposed wires – Protect the ends of any severed wires still coming out of the door with electrical tape until you’re ready to install the new mirror.
- Clean the door and mounting area – Use glass cleaner and rags to wipe down where the new mirror will attach.
Take your time during removal to avoid breaking any mounting clips or brackets that will be needed to install the new mirror later on. If any parts do break, your replacement mirror kit should include new clips/brackets.
Installing the new mirror
Once you have the old mirror removed, follow these tips for properly installing your new replacement side mirror:
- Inspect the replacement mirror – Make sure it’s the proper fit and that no pieces are damaged or missing.
- Connect the electrical wiring – Match up wire colors and connectors to your vehicle’s wiring loom coming out of the door.
- Position the mirror – Set the new mirror assembly onto the mount and ensure the wiring runs into the door properly.
- Insert and tighten mounting bolts – Hand tighten bolts first then use your wrench/socket set to tighten them according to the mirror manufacturer’s torque specifications.
- Snap on any covers and test – Replace any trim pieces or covers. Turn your battery back on and electrically test the mirror controls.
- Aim mirror glass – Sit in the driver seat and aim/adjust the mirror glass for best rear visibility before driving.
Take care when tightening the mounting bolts on the replacement mirror. Overtightening can crack the housing or distort the mount. Refer to your vehicle repair manual if you’re unsure of the proper tightening sequence or torque.
Tips for DIY side mirror replacement
Follow these tips for a smooth side mirror replacement process:
- Refer to manufacturer procedures – Review your vehicle repair manual or look up factory instructions for your specific make and model.
- Work slowly and gently – Don’t force anything during disassembly or installation. Damaging mounts, housings, or wiring can cause bigger problems.
- Protect paint around work area – Use painter’s tape, drop cloths, or towels when prying off trim pieces or housing covers.
- Label fasteners and wires – To avoid mixing up hardware or wires during reinstallation.
- Test electrical function – Turn signals, heating, mirrors controls, etc. should all work on the new mirror.
- Get help if needed – An extra set of hands can make the process much easier.
Potential challenges during DIY mirror replacement
While replacing a side mirror yourself is very doable for most vehicle owners, you may encounter some challenges including:
- Stripped or stuck bolts – Applying penetrating oil and using proper tools can help remove stubborn bolts without stripping them.
- Broken brackets or mounts – Your new mirror kit should include any brackets or clips needed, but broken mounts may require professional repair.
- Electrical wiring issues – If wiring is damaged or connections don’t match up, you may need to splice, solder, or replace the wiring harness.
- Reprogramming electrical features – If your new mirror has features like auto-dimming or blindspot warning, you may need to have the systems reprogrammed and calibrated.
- Damage to vehicle paint or body – Avoid excessive prying or scraping when removing trim pieces and components from the vehicle.
Proper preparation, patience, and care when working on your vehicle can help avoid or overcome most of these potential issues. Don’t be afraid to seek professional help if you get stuck.
Cost of professional vs. DIY replacement
One of the major benefits of replacing your side mirror yourself is the cost savings compared to having it done professionally. Here’s a look at typical costs:
| Service | DIY Cost | Professional Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Side mirror replacement (parts only) | $50 – $300 | $50 – $300 for parts |
| Labor at repair shop | $0 for your time | $100 – $250 |
| Total cost | $50 – $300 | $150 – $550 |
As you can see, parts prices are generally the same whether you do it yourself or go to a mechanic. The big cost difference is the labor. Replacing a mirror yourself only costs your own time, while shops charge $100 or more for an hourly labor rate. The sense of accomplishment is an added bonus too!
When to use a professional mechanic
While DIY mirror replacement is cost-effective for many repairs, there are some situations where it’s best to turn it over to a professional:
- If the mirror housing or door panel is significantly damaged – Excessive damage may require body work best left to auto body professionals.
- For newer vehicles still under warranty – Replacing components yourself could void your remaining warranty.
- If electrical troubleshooting and soldering is required – Shops have the tools and expertise to properly diagnose and repair complex wiring issues.
- For recalibration of advanced driving assist systems – Many newer mirrors integrate with things like blind spot monitoring, lane keep assist, or collision avoidance. The systems may require professional recalibration after mirror replacement to function properly.
As vehicle technologies continue advancing, side mirror repairs are becoming more integrated with other systems. Know your mechanical skill level and when it’s prudent to pay for an expert rather than risk damaging your vehicle further.
Conclusion
Replacing a damaged or broken side mirror is well within reach for many vehicle owners. By gathering the proper replacement parts, tools, and reviewing vehicle-specific repair procedures, you can often save hundreds of dollars doing it yourself versus paying a mechanic’s labor charges. If the repair is beyond your skill level or requires extensive body work, electrical repairs, or recalibration of advanced driver assistance systems, it may be safest to turn the job over to a professional. But for straightforward mirror replacements, DIY is an easy way to save money and get your car back on the road safely.