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DIY Side Mirror Replacement: Save $300 with a $15 Fix

BY: Dario DiGiuseppe
Man looking into his car's side mirror

Replacing just the glass on a broken side mirror is an easy DIY project that can cost as little as $15, saving drivers up to $300 in repair shop fees. As long as the mirror housing and motor are intact, you can restore visibility and safety in under 30 minutes using tools from your local auto parts store. Learn how to fix your side mirror at home, what tools and materials you’ll need, and when a professional repair or extended warranty may be a better option.

Why a Broken Side View Mirror Shouldn’t Be Ignored

The driver side mirror on your vehicle is a critical safety tool. Whether you’re making a lane change on the road, backing out of a parking spot, or just checking your blindspots, clear visibility in your side mirror is crucial. A broken mirror, whether on the driver side or passenger side, compromises your field of vision and increases your risk of collision.

Beyond safety concerns, though, there are also legal considerations. Most states require you to have a functioning mirror and at least one additional mirror (such as a rear-view mirror or passenger side mirror) that provides a clear view. By having a broken mirror, you may subject yourself to a citation or fine, depending on your local traffic laws.

Due to all of the above, it’s simply not worth waiting to fix a broken mirror, especially when the solution is so affordable and accessible.

How Much Does Professional Mirror Replacement Cost?

Typically, taking your vehicle to a dealership to get a part repaired will always be more expensive than doing it yourself, considering the fact you need to take labor costs into account. Dealerships or a body shop also often won’t recommend replacing just the glass, rather the entire mirror assembly itself. This tends to be even more true if you have a new car which is why it’s sometimes easier to do a mirror glass replacement by yourself.

For parts, you can expect the cost to fall between $150-$300 with labor adding on another $50-$200 depending on the location. On an average basis, the total cost of a replacement job tends to fall around $300 but it’s not unusual to see it get to $500 easily.

The $15 DIY Fix: What You Need from AutoZone or Similar Retailers

There are certainly some tasks under the hood that should only be handled by a licensed professional to ensure further damage to your vehicle doesn’t occur. However, unless in the event of catastrophic damage, replacing the glass on your side mirror is easy enough for the average person. Average auto parts stores like AutoZone, Advance Auto Parts, and O’Reilly Auto Parts carry pre-cut or universal-fitting replacement mirror glass.

The items you’ll need to pick up at an auto store include:

  • Replacement mirror lens: Expect to pay $15-$25, depending on whether it’s vehicle-specific or universal
  • Adhesive or backing plate: If your mirror doesn’t come with one, purchase a strong automotive adhesive or epoxy designed for mirror glass
  • Basic tools: A flathead screwdriver, gloves, and safety goggles may be useful when removing the old mirror.
  • Optional cleaning supplies: Isopropyl alcohol or glass cleaner can help prep the area before installation

At most, all of the items above combined will cost you less than $50 if purchased at the right locations.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing a Side Mirror Lens

Take solace in the fact that you don’t need to be a mechanic in order to replace your car’s side mirror lens. As long as the mirror housing and adjustment mechanisms are intact, you will be able to handle this straightforward task in as little as 30 minutes. The steps to follow are below:

  • Step 1: Put on gloves and goggles to remove any loose or shattered pieces of the old mirror, then use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry out any remaining sections
  • Step 2: Using a clean cloth, rubbing alcohol, or glass cleaner, wipe the backing plate or mirror mount to ensure that all old adhesive or debris is removed so that the new mirror will sit flat
  • Step 3: Before applying the adhesive to the mirror, first place the new mirror over the area to ensure that it will fit snugly; be aware that you may need to trim the adhesive slightly to match your mirror shape
  • Step 4: Apply the included adhesive to the back of the new mirror or directly onto the backing plate if that’s easier, but be sure to follow the product instructions closely
  • Step 5: Place the mirror into position and press firmly, holding about 30-60 seconds in order to ensure there is a secure bond
  • Step 6: Allow the adhesive to cure for the recommended amount of time before making any adjustments to the mirror or driving

In just as little as 30 minutes you will have saved yourself hundreds of dollars with a quick fix that restores both safety and functionality to your vehicle.

How an Extended Warranty Can Help with Bigger Repairs

As mentioned above, replacing a mirror lens on your car isn’t an expensive or complicated task. With that said, not all side mirror issues are as simple as that described above. Modern vehicles often include mirrors that have power adjustment wiring, integrated turn signals, blind spot monitoring, heating elements, and more. If these components are damaged then the repair job likely can’t be handled by yourself. Additionally, the high-tech components will make the job more expensive as well.

An extended warranty contract, more accurately called a vehicle service contract, can help mitigate these costs. Many of these plans offer coverage for side mirror repairs, especially if they involve electrical failures, malfunctioning motors, broken sensors, and more. For example, the Superior and Supreme plans offered by Endurance Warranty provide coverage for powered mirrors in addition to a slew of other parts.

Protect Your Vehicle With Endurance

Whether you’re seeking protection for your side mirror or nearly your entire vehicle, Endurance has a plan that can be customized to suit your needs. In addition to this financial protection, you can also make the most of one free year of Elite Benefits, for a small activation fee, offering bonus perks such as up to windshield repair, collision coverage, tire protection, and more.

To learn more and see which plan may be right for you, contact a service plan advisor at (800) 253-8203 for a FREE quote or shop online to see your price today.

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