Repairing Guides

how to repair a side mirror

by Dawson Pfeffer Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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Side Mirror Replacement Overview

  • Order a replacement side view mirror. Start your repair job by searching the Internet for an aftermarket side view...
  • Remove the cover and door panels. Our power mirror repair required the removal of the door trim panel to access the...
  • Disconnect the cable. Next, follow the cable from the mirror and disassemble the mirror’s electrical...

Full Answer

How much does it cost to repair a side mirror?

You drive too close to a parked vehicle or don’t quite miss a speeding vehicle and your mirror is likely the part to get smashed up. Side mirror replacement costs between $139 and $328 for parts and labor, while you can expect to pay between $35 and $90 for the part itself.

Do I have to fix a broken side mirror?

It happens! But broken side mirrors are a traffic violation so don’t put off fixing it, even if you can still see out of it, you still have to fix it! It’s much better to get the mirror fixed than to get pulled over and getting a ticket for an easy fix!

How to fix your broken side view mirror for cheap?

Side Mirror Replacement Overview

  • Order a replacement side view mirror. Start your repair job by searching the Internet for an aftermarket side view mirror and for the factory paint color code.
  • Remove the cover and door panels. Our power mirror repair required the removal of the door trim panel to access the mirror’s electrical connector.
  • Disconnect the cable. ...
  • Figure A: Special Tools. ...

How to remove the side view mirror?

Removing the Old Mirror

  1. Open the door and power down the window on the side you're replacing the mirror on. Turn the ignition key to the "off" position.
  2. Locate the black triangular molding in the lower front corner of the door covering the inside of the side view mirror.
  3. Pry off the molding gently using the screwdriver. ...

More items...

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Why replace side mirrors?

There are several reasons why you might want to replace one of your car’s side mirrors. Maybe some dimwit sideswiped you and knocked off your mirror. Or perhaps you’ve got a power mirror with a burnt-out motor.

How much does it cost to replace a side mirror?

If you decide to have a professional replace your side mirror, expect to pay anywhere from $200 to upwards of $500.

What to remove from rear view mirror?

Remove the rear view mirror sound insulator (or foam pad, if equipped).

How much does it cost to install mirrors?

Should you decide to tackle the job yourself, expect to pay anywhere from approximately $50 to $100 for each mirror assembly. Once again, if you’ve got a fancy car, the cost may be higher.

Where to mount a new mirror?

Mount the new mirror in the door.

Is it hard to change side mirrors?

Changing your car’s side mirrors is not difficult but vehicle safety can be compromised if something goes wrong. If you don’t feel like you’re up to the task, leave it to a professional. Now we get to the fun part: replacing the side mirror.

How to fix a scratched mirror?

A scratched mirror can affect the aesthetic appeal of a room. Though light scratches can be fixed with home remedies, larger scratches may lead to cracks and should be repaired immediately. Here are some common household repair methods that may be helpful: 1 Rub the mirror with toothpaste. The abrasive ingredients in toothpaste can occasionally polish out scratches. Use traditional toothpaste instead of a gel. 2 Apply a jewelry-polishing compound (cerium oxide). This ingredient is sometimes effective in restoring a mirror’s shine. Mix it with water and apply it to the mirror. 3 Try clear nail polish. Sometimes nail polish can cover deeper scratches. Add a layer, wipe away the excess and see if the scratch is less noticeable. If you can still see it, try another layer. 4 Use a mustard/vinegar paste. If you’ve got dry mustard and white vinegar in your pantry, combine it and spread the paste mixture on the mirror.

How to restore shine to mirror?

Use traditional toothpaste instead of a gel. Apply a jewelry-polishing compound (cerium oxide). This ingredient is sometimes effective in restoring a mirror’s shine. Mix it with water and apply it to the mirror. Try clear nail polish. Sometimes nail polish can cover deeper scratches.

Why Glass Doctor?

With more than 50 years in business, Glass Doctor is the go-to source for mirror and glass repair services. We offer:

Can a scratched mirror be repaired?

Though light scratches can be fixed with home remedies, larger scratches may lead to cracks and should be repaired immediately. Here are some common household repair methods that may be helpful:

Can you fix a mirror yourself?

Sometimes a mirror is damaged so badly that you won’t be able to fix it yourself. When this happens, call in a professional to assess the situation. From mirror scratch repair to designing custom replacements, Glass Doctor® will make your home decor shine again.

Can you restore a scratched mirror?

Though scratches are ugly, it is possible to restore your mirror’s surface to its former condition. Here are some tips on how to repair your scratched mirror and advice on when to call in professional assistance.

How to remove decorative vanity caps?

Remove decorative vanity caps from screws with the hooked pick, then remove the screws.

Is it cheaper to replace a side mirror?

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.

Does insurance cover side mirrors?

Even if your insurance will cover a side mirror replacement, this body shop repair is most likely less than your deductible. In other words, it’s coming out of your pocket. The good news is that you can replace the side view mirror yourself for a lot less!

Can you paint a side view mirror yourself?

Painting the side view mirror was easy. We simply masked off the glass and followed the spraying instructions on the paint cans. But if you’re not up to painting it yourself, take it to a body shop.

How to fix a cracked mirror?

If you have a cracked mirror, don’t throw it away just yet! You can easily repair it using a standard windshield repair kit from your local auto supply store. Start by cleaning off the mirror to remove any dust and residue. Then, apply the stabilizer strip so you can inject the resin adhesive and contain it.

How to smooth out a stabilizer?

Use your fingers to smooth out the stabilizer film. Run your fingertips from 1 end of the stabilizer film to the other. Work to push out any air bubbles that may be trapped beneath the film and create a tight seal over the crack. Make sure there aren’t any creases or bubbles in the film.

How to get a syringe out of a crack?

Insert the tip of the syringe through the stabilizer film . Place the tip of the syringe over the stabilizer film roughly at the center. Use gentle pressure to push the syringe through the film and into the crack. The tip of the syringe should be inside of the crack. ...

How to use epoxy resin adhesive?

The epoxy resin adhesive comes with a plastic syringe. Push the plunger of the syringe so it’s all the way down , then insert the syringe into the container of resin. Slowly pull the plunger to pull out the resin and fill the syringe. You may need to cut the tip of the syringe with a pair of scissors in order to use it.

How to fill cracks in a syringe?

Push down the plunger to fill the crack with resin. Keep the syringe still and slowly push on the plunger. The resin will leave the syringe and fill the crack. The stabilizer film will keep the resin contained in the crack.

How to remove adhesive from stabilizer film?

Remove the adhesive backing of the stabilizer film. Take the clear stabilizer strip and locate the edge of the adhesive backing. Use your fingertips to peel off the backing to expose the adhesive.

How to clean cracks in resin?

Take a sponge or a clean cloth and soak it in warm water. Apply a drop of dish soap and work the sponge or cloth into a lather. Wipe the cracked area clean to remove dirt and dust from the surface . Dirt, dust, and debris can affect how well the resin fills the crack, so be sure to clean the area well!

How to replace a stick on mirror?

If you’re replacing a stick-on mirror, follow the specific directions for your adhesive to attach the mirror to the backing plate. Reattach any wires you detached to the new unit and snap it into place. Once the mirror is attached, make sure you’re able to adjust it as needed.

What happens when side view mirrors are chipped?

Your side view mirrors ensure you have visibility around your vehicle on the road. When they become cracked, chipped, or lose clarity, you're jeopardizing your safety and the safety of those around you. Replacing your side view mirror glass requires just a few simple steps for most application. Tools and Materials List.

How to hold a mirror in place?

Once the mirror is attached, make sure you’re able to adjust it as needed. Use some painter’s masking tape to hold the mirror in place while adhesive sets, if necessary.

What happens if you replace glass with snap on?

If your replacement glass is a snap-on unit, you’ll remove the old backing plate—and whatever bits of glass are left attached to it as a whole .

Do you have to wear gloves when replacing a mirror?

Ensure that you have the proper replacement mirror before beginning. Some mirrors are snap-on units and some are stick-on. It’s a good idea to wear leather gloves if you have broken pieces of mirror that need to be removed.

Can you use double sided tape to replace mirrors?

If your replacement glass is a stick-on mirror, you’ll want to remove as much of the old glass as possible so that you can use double-sided tape or epoxy to attach the new mirror to the backing plate.

Do you need to detach the wires before removing the backing plate?

Do It Right: If the mirror is heated, you’ll need to detach the wires involved before removing the old backing plate. Wear leather gloves if you have broken pieces of mirror that need to be removed. of the glue. If your replacement glass is a snap-on unit, you’ll remove the old backing plate—and whatever bits of glass are left attached ...

Why does my side mirror come loose?

The side mirror's glass is attached with glue from the factory and through years of heat, cold, and vibrations, the glue becomes bad and the mirror comes loose . Here's how to attach it again with glue or adhesive

What to do if your side mirrors are frosted?

If your side view mirrors are frosted, using hot water to clear them up may cause the glass to break. Frost could limit the line of sight of your side view mirrors, which might cause blind spots. You should clear them up with rubbing alcohol, mixed with a small amount of water.

What Glue to Attach a Side View Mirror to a Car?

You want to look at the back of the mirror to see what material you are dealing with. Epoxy glue is good for many applications, ensuring a strong bond that is also impact-resistant. You can use epoxy with rigid plastics and metal.

Why does my side view mirror break?

If you have children, they might play with the power controls on your mirror, leading it to break because of abuse. If the motor in the mirror is forced to travel beyond its limits, the glass could break. However, with all of these instances, it’s simple to replace the glass in your side view mirror with the help of some glue.

Why should my rear view mirror be centered?

Your mirror should be centered on your view in such a way that you can clearly view the rear windshield. If this is done improperly, it may affect the settings of your side view mirror and could cause blind spots.

How much does it cost to replace a side view mirror?

The cost of parts for a new side view mirror can easily be under $100. If you are simply replacing the glass, you will need glue, a lint-free cloth, a screwdriver and maybe a heat gun. You shouldn’t need the help of a professional just to replace the glass.

What to do if you can't remove a housing?

By heating the housing slightly, you can create a more pliable material that is easier to work with.

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