DIY Guide: How to Replace Broken Side-View Mirrors on Your Car
Importance of Side-View Mirrors:
Side-view mirrors are an important part of your car’s safety system. They give you a clear view of surrounding lanes, vehicles, and objects, allowing you to make safe lane changes, merges, and turns. Furthermore, they increase your awareness of your surroundings, eliminating blind spots and improving overall driving safety.
Possible Issues with Side Mirrors:
Despite their importance, side-view mirrors are susceptible to various issues, including:
Damage from Collisions:
Side mirrors are often the first to be hit during minor collisions, resulting in cracks, scratches, or complete breakage.
Environmental Factors:
Exposure to harsh weather conditions, such as strong winds, can cause damage to side-view mirrors, including the housing or the mirror itself.
Vandalism or Theft:
Side mirrors can be stolen. This occurs particularly in metropolitan locations where they may be targeted for malevolent acts, resale, or used in theft attempts.Â
Normal Wear and Tear:
Regular use can cause mechanical components in side-view mirrors to degrade over time, resulting in difficulties such as motor failure or malfunctioning adjustment mechanisms.Â
Now that we understand the importance of car side mirrors and the potential issues they can face, let’s proceed with the step-by-step DIYÂ guide to replacing a broken side view mirror on your car.
DIY Guide: How to Replace a Broken Side View Mirror on Your Car
1. Gather Necessary Tools and Materials:
Before you begin, ensure you have or buy the following items
- Replacement side mirror
- Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
- Pliers
- trim removal tools
- Safety goggles
2. Locate and Remove the Broken View Mirror:
Park your car in a safe and well-lit area. If the mirror is only partially intact, carefully extract any remaining pieces using pliers or trim removal tools. If the mirror is entirely shattered, use gloves and goggles to carefully remove any broken glass pieces.
3. Access the Mirror Mounting:
Remove any interior panels or covers that allow access to the mirror mounting bolts. These panels are typically found near the side mirrors or inside the door frame. Use a screwdriver or trim removal tools to gently pull off the panels, being careful not to harm them.
4. Disconnect Electrical Connections (if applicable):
If your car’s side mirror has electrical components, such as heating or automatic adjustment features, locate the electrical connections behind the panel. Carefully disconnect the wiring harness or electrical connector by pressing the release tab and pulling the connector apart.
5. Remove Mounting Bolts:
Use a screwdriver or appropriate socket wrench to remove the mounting bolts securing the broken mirror to the car. Keep track of the bolts and any accompanying washers to ensure they are not lost during the procedure.
6. Install the New Mirror:
Position the replacement side mirror in place, aligning it with the mounting holes on the car. Tighten the mounting nuts to hold the side mirror in place securely. Reconnect any electrical connections, making sure they are properly seated and secured.
7. Test the New Mirror:
Turn on your car’s ignition and test the functionality of the new side mirror. Check that any electrical features, such as heating and adjusting controls, are functioning properly Adjust the mirror to your preferred angle for optimal visibility.
8. Reassemble Interior Panels:
Once the new mirror is installed and tested, reattach any interior panels or covers removed earlier. Ensure that all panels are securely placed or screwed back into place.
9. Final Checks:
Inspect the installed side mirror visually to ensure proper alignment and functionality. Test the mirror again by adjusting its position and ensuring that it is securely in place.
Congratulations! You have successfully replaced the broken side view mirror on your car, restoring its safety and functionality on the road. If you run into any problems or are hesitant at any stage, see a professional mechanic.
