Replacing a broken or damaged side mirror can be an annoying and potentially costly repair. Most modern vehicles have exterior side mirrors on both the driver’s and passenger’s sides, and they serve an important safety purpose by providing rear and side visibility. When one of the side mirrors is damaged, whether from an accident, vandalism, or just wear and tear, it needs to be replaced quickly to ensure proper visibility and avoid potential accidents. But how much does it really cost to replace just one side mirror? The costs can range quite a bit depending on the vehicle make and model, the type of mirror, and who does the replacement work. This article will provide an overview of the factors that affect side mirror replacement costs and provide typical price ranges to give you an idea of what to expect.
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Cost Factors
There are several important factors that will determine the overall cost to replace a side mirror:
Vehicle Make and Model
The make and model of a vehicle has a big impact on replacement part costs. Luxury vehicles or rare antique models often have much more expensive mirrors than standard passenger cars and trucks. Newer vehicle models may also be more expensive if replacement parts are only available from the dealer. Older, common vehicles typically have relatively inexpensive replacement mirrors widely available.
Mirror Type
Basic side mirror replacements tend to be cheaper, while mirrors with additional features like power folding, heating, auto-dimming, and integrated turn signals tend to be more expensive. More complex mirror designs require more expensive components and electronics.
Replacement Method
Doing the work yourself can save on labor costs, while having the mirror replaced professionally at a body shop or dealership will be more expensive due to shop fees and hourly labor rates. DIY mirror replacement may require some mechanical skill.
Mirror Housing
Just the mirror glass is often cheaper to replace than the entire mirror assembly including the plastic housing. But sometimes the housing gets damaged too or the glass is not removable. Replacing the whole assembly will be more expensive.
Typical Replacement Costs
With those factors in mind, here are some typical estimated costs to replace one side mirror:
DIY Replacement
– Mirror glass only – $50 to $200 for part
– Complete mirror assembly – $100 to $350 for part
Professional Replacement
– Mirror glass only – $150 to $350 total cost
– Complete mirror assembly – $200 to $600 total cost
Keep in mind professional labor rates can vary widely by location. Costs also depend on the vehicle and mirror specifics. Some luxury or specialty vehicles may be over $1000 for a single mirror replacement from a dealership.
When to Replace vs Repair
If the mirror glass is intact but the housing is damaged, you may be able to just replace the housing and save money. Likewise, the glass can often be replaced separately if the housing is not damaged.
However, there are times when the entire assembly may need replacement:
– Glass is not removable from the housing on some mirrors
– Built-in electrical components or heating elements are damaged
– Housing is cracked, broken, or warped
– Replacement parts are no longer available
A professional can usually determine if just the glass or entire assembly needs replacement when you get a repair quote.
DIY Replacement Tips
Doing the side mirror replacement yourself can save money, but requires some mechanical skill and auto DIY knowledge. Here are some tips for DIY side mirror replacement:
– Purchase the correct replacement part for your specific vehicle’s make, model, and year
– Consult vehicle-specific repair manuals for removal and installation procedures
– Use plastic trim removal tools to avoid breaking clips and fasteners
– Disconnect electrical connectors carefully before removing mirror
– Transfer any necessary components over from old mirror
– Ensure proper alignment when installing new mirror
– Take care not to scratch paint or damage trim
– Retest mirror adjustment, heating, and any electrical functions after installing
Replacing just the mirror glass involves carefully popping out the old glass and swapping in the new replacement glass. Swapping the entire housing is more involved.
When to Call a Professional
While DIY mirror replacement is possible on many vehicles, there are some situations when it’s a better idea to have a professional auto technician take care of it. Consider leaving it to the pros if:
– You don’t have the necessary tools, equipment, or skills
– Electrical wiring or calibration is involved
– The mirror assembly is attached with adhesive instead of fasteners
– The vehicle has complex blind spot monitoring or camera systems in the mirror
– You fear breaking more parts or damaging the vehicle’s body
– You don’t have the time or patience for a difficult repair
The increased cost of professional installation may be worth it to avoid aggravation or potential problems down the road.
Professional Replacement Options
You have several options when having your side mirror replaced by a professional:
Auto Dealership
The dealership that sells your vehicle’s brand can replace the mirror using original manufacturer’s parts. However, dealer repair prices are usually the highest.
Local Auto Body Shop
A trusted local auto body repair shop often offers very competitive pricing for side mirror replacements. They have professional technicians and standard aftermarket replacement mirrors.
Mobile Mechanic
A mobile mechanic service can come to your location and replace the mirror at often lower hourly rates than a shop. The convenience may be worth a small premium over DIY pricing.
Compare quotes among professional options to find the best value based on parts prices, labor rates, service fees, and convenience. An independent mechanic may provide the lowest pricing in many cases. Dealerships cost the most but also provide manufacturer OEM parts.
Auto Insurance Coverage
One final thing to consider – if the side mirror damage occurred due to a collision or auto accident covered by your insurance policy, then insurance will usually pay for the replacement cost minus your policy deductible. However, policies vary, so check with your insurer.
Conclusion
Replacing a damaged or broken side mirror is an important repair not to delay for long, as driving without proper side visibility poses safety risks. The cost for one mirror will largely depend on the specific vehicle and parts required, whether you do it yourself or have it repaired professionally, and whether insurance helps cover costs. For most passenger vehicles, expect to pay around $100 to $600 for a single mirror replacement depending on these factors. With the right parts and some DIY skills, you can potentially replace a mirror yourself for under $200 total. Considering how critical properly functioning side mirrors are for staying aware of your surroundings while driving, it’s a repair worth making promptly before costs grow higher.
Table of Typical Replacement Cost Ranges
| Replacement Type | Typical Cost Range |
|---|---|
| DIY Glass Only | $50 – $200 (parts only) |
| DIY Assembly | $100 – $350 (parts only) |
| Shop Glass Only | $150 – $350 (total cost) |
| Shop Assembly | $200 – $600 (total cost) |