Introduction
How To Replace Car Side Mirror: Replacing a car side mirror is a valuable skill that can save you money and enhance your driving safety. In this guide, we will explore the step-by-step process of replacing a damaged or broken car side mirror. Whether your side mirror has been damaged in an accident, vandalized, or has simply worn out over time, understanding how to replace it is essential for maintaining your vehicle’s safety and functionality.
We’ll cover essential aspects of the replacement process, from assessing the damage and gathering the necessary tools to removing the old mirror and installing the new one. Additionally, we’ll provide tips for ensuring that the replacement mirror is correctly aligned and securely attached, so it functions effectively.
You’ll have the knowledge and confidence to tackle the replacement of a car side mirror, whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or simply looking to address this common vehicle maintenance issue. Properly replacing a side mirror contributes to your safety on the road and ensures that you have clear visibility of your surroundings while driving.
Can I replace my car side mirror by myself?
Replacing the mirror glass is a do-it-yourself project that is usually inexpensive. Several manufacturers offer precut glass mirrors to fit vehicles of all makes and models.
Assessment: Begin by assessing the extent of the damage to your side mirror. Determine whether you need to replace the entire mirror assembly or just specific components, like the mirror glass or housing.
Tools and Parts: Gather the required tools, which may include screwdrivers, pliers, socket wrenches, and replacement mirror components. Ensure you have the correct replacement mirror that matches your vehicle’s specifications.
Safety Precautions: Prioritize safety by disconnecting the vehicle’s battery and wearing safety gear, such as gloves and safety glasses.
Removal: Carefully remove the old mirror assembly by accessing it from inside the vehicle or outside, depending on the design. This may involve removing door panels or trim.
Installation: Attach the new mirror assembly or components in the reverse order of removal. Ensure that all bolts, screws, and connectors are properly secured.
Alignment: Adjust the new mirror to the correct angle and alignment to provide optimal visibility.
Testing: Reconnect the vehicle’s battery and test the new mirror to ensure it functions correctly.
Is it easy to replace a car mirror?
Most vehicle’s side mirrors are relatively easy to replace, the cost of the replacement may shock you so get one from an auto recycler.
Accessibility: On some vehicles, side mirrors are designed to be easily accessible for replacement. They may be attached with visible screws or clips, making removal and installation simpler.
Mirror Glass: Replacing just the mirror glass is usually the easiest part of the process and can often be done with minimal tools and effort.
Complexity: Some side mirrors are electronically powered, heated, or equipped with advanced features like turn signals or blind-spot monitoring. Replacing such mirrors can be more complex and may require wiring and programming.
Vehicle-Specific: The ease of replacement depends on your vehicle’s make and model. Some vehicles have unique mirror designs or attachment methods that can be more challenging to work with.
Tools and Skills: If you lack the necessary tools or mechanical skills, the replacement process can be more challenging. You may need specific tools like socket wrenches, trim removal tools, and a multimeter for electronic mirrors.
Are side mirrors hard to replace?
Replacing a broken side view mirror is easier and cheaper than you might think. Once you have the right tools, the hardest part is just finding the hidden fasteners.
Vehicle Make and Model: The ease or difficulty of replacing side mirrors can significantly depend on the make and model of your vehicle. Some cars have mirror designs that are more accessible and simpler to work with, while others may have more complex setups.
Type of Mirror: Whether your vehicle has manual or power-adjustable mirrors, heated mirrors, or mirrors with additional features like turn signals or blind-spot monitoring can affect the complexity of the replacement.
Tools and Skills: If you have the necessary tools, such as socket wrenches, screwdrivers, and trim removal tools, and you’re comfortable with basic automotive tasks, replacing the mirror can be more manageable.
Wiring and Electronics Replacing side mirrors with electronic features or integrated wiring may require more technical know-how. You might need to handle wiring and potentially programming to ensure the mirror functions correctly.
Alignment: Properly aligning the new mirror for optimal visibility can be challenging, especially for those who are less experienced with automotive repairs.
Can I glue a side mirror to my car?
If your vehicle’s side mirror has broken, you can replace it using car mirror glue. This guide will help you choose and use the best glue for car mirrors.
Safety Concerns: Gluing a side mirror may not provide a secure and stable attachment. In the event of a collision or strong impact, the glued mirror may detach, posing safety risks to you and other road users.
Limited Durability: Glue may not withstand exposure to various weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or extreme temperatures, causing the mirror to come loose again.
Lack of Adjustability: Glued mirrors may not be adjustable, making it challenging to position them correctly for optimal visibility while driving.
Legal Issues: In many jurisdictions, vehicles are required by law to have functioning side mirrors. Gluing a mirror back on may not meet legal requirements, potentially leading to traffic citations and fines.
Is the side mirror covered in insurance?
Sure. If the side mirror damage was caused by a collision and you have collision coverage, yes. Or, if the side mirror damage was caused by vandalism or an act of nature, again yes.
Insurance Policy: If you have comprehensive auto insurance, it typically covers damage to your vehicle caused by incidents other than collisions. This may include vandalism, theft, or damage due to natural disasters. In such cases, your side mirror repair or replacement may be covered, but you’ll still need to pay your deductible.
Collision Coverage: If the damage to your side mirror occurred as a result of a collision with another vehicle or object, it would typically fall under your collision coverage. Again, you would need to pay your deductible before the insurance coverage kicks in.
Liability-Only Coverage: If you have liability-only coverage, which covers damages to other parties in accidents you cause but not your own vehicle, then your side mirror damage may not be covered.
Policy Limits: Even if your policy covers side mirror damage, there may be coverage limits. Ensure you understand the specific coverage details outlined in your insurance policy.
Claims Process: To get your side mirror repaired or replaced through insurance, you will need to file a claim, pay your deductible, and follow the insurer’s claims process.
How long does it take to replace the side mirror?
Whether you need to replace only a part of your side mirror or the entire mirror assembly, we’ve got you covered. Side view mirror replacement usually takes 30 minutes or more!
Mirror Glass: Cracks or small chips on mirror glass can sometimes be repaired using glass epoxy or adhesive designed for glass. However, the success of such repairs depends on the size and location of the damage. For minor blemishes, it’s worth attempting a repair. For larger or more critical damage, replacement is often the best solution.
Mirror Housing: If the mirror housing or casing is damaged, it can usually be repaired by replacing the housing itself. This is a common solution for side mirrors on vehicles when the plastic or casing is cracked or broken.
Frame or Mounting: For mirrors in your home, the frame or mounting hardware can often be repaired or replaced. This is a more straightforward process than dealing with the mirror glass itself.
Antique or Decorative Mirrors: Antique or decorative mirrors can sometimes be repaired or restored by professionals who specialize in such work. They can repair cracks, replace missing pieces, and restore the mirror’s appearance.
Are mirrors repairable?
You can also repair a mirror crack using a specialized resin-based repair kit. Because each of these kits is unique, you’ll want to follow the instructions included with your repair kit. This option works best for mirrors with small gaps resulting from cracks, as the resin fills the gap to restore a mirror’s surface.
Mirror Glass: Cracks or small chips on mirror glass can sometimes be repaired using glass epoxy or adhesive designed for glass. However, the success of such repairs depends on the size and location of the damage. For minor blemishes, it’s worth attempting a repair. For larger or more critical damage, replacement is often the best solution.
Mirror Housing: If the mirror housing or casing is damaged, it can usually be repaired by replacing the housing itself. This is a common solution for side mirrors on vehicles when the plastic or casing is cracked or broken.
Frame or Mounting: For mirrors in your home, the frame or mounting hardware can often be repaired or replaced. This is a more straightforward process than dealing with the mirror glass itself.
Antique or Decorative Mirrors: Antique or decorative mirrors can sometimes be repaired or restored by professionals who specialize in such work. They can repair cracks, replace missing pieces, and restore the mirror’s appearance.
Is it safe to drive with a broken mirror?
The law states that you need to have at least two fully intact mirrors that allow you to see objects behind you. One broken mirror may not be illegal, but cops could still pull you over. It is best to simply avoid run-ins with the police and replace a mirror promptly.
Reduced Visibility: A broken mirror compromises your ability to see what’s happening behind and beside your vehicle. This can lead to blind spots and make it challenging to monitor traffic, change lanes safely, or merge onto highways.
Increased Risk of Accidents: With reduced visibility due to a broken mirror, the likelihood of accidents, especially those involving lane changes and merging, significantly increases. You may not be aware of vehicles or hazards in your blind spots, leading to potentially dangerous situations.
Legal Concerns: Many regions and jurisdictions have laws that require vehicles to have functioning mirrors. Driving with a broken mirror can lead to traffic citations, fines, or even license suspension, depending on local regulations.
Safety Hazard: Broken mirrors can pose safety risks to you and other road users. They may have sharp edges that can cause injuries during a collision or even during regular vehicle operation.
Conclusion
Knowing how to replace a car side mirror is a valuable skill for any vehicle owner. This guide has provided a comprehensive overview of the step-by-step process involved in replacing a damaged or broken side mirror, from assessing the damage and gathering the necessary tools to successfully installing the new mirror.
Replacing a car side mirror is not only a cost-effective alternative to professional repairs but also contributes to the safety and functionality of your vehicle. A properly replaced mirror ensures that you have clear visibility of your surroundings while driving, reduces blind spots, and enhances overall road safety.
You’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or someone looking to address this common maintenance issue for the first time, this guide equips you with the knowledge and confidence to complete the replacement process effectively. By following safety precautions and adhering to the outlined steps, you can successfully replace a car side mirror and ensure that your vehicle remains in optimal condition for safe and comfortable driving.
