How to Repair a Side View Mirror for Your Car

Introduction

Driving with a broken or damaged side view mirror is not only dangerous but also illegal. A side view mirror helps you keep an eye on the traffic around you and avoid accidents. Therefore, it’s important to repair it as soon as possible. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps of repairing a side view mirror for your car.

Step 1: Assess the Damage

The first step is to assess the damage. Is the mirror just cracked or completely shattered? Is the housing damaged as well? If the mirror is only cracked, you may be able to repair it without replacing the entire unit. However, if the housing is damaged, you may need to replace the entire unit.

Step 2: Buy the Parts

Once you’ve assessed the damage, you need to buy the parts. You can either buy the parts from a local auto parts store or order them online. Make sure you have the make and model of your car handy, as well as the year, to ensure you get the right parts.

Step 3: Remove the Old Mirror

Now it’s time to remove the old mirror. You may need a screwdriver or a socket wrench to remove the screws that hold the mirror in place. Once you’ve removed the screws, gently pull the mirror away from the housing.

Step 4: Install the New Mirror

Next, install the new mirror. Place the new mirror in the housing and secure it with the screws. Make sure the mirror is aligned properly and adjusted to your liking.

Step 5: Test the Mirror

After installing the new mirror, test it to make sure it’s working properly. Adjust the mirror to your liking and make sure you can see clearly.

Step 6: Replace the Housing (If Necessary)

If the housing is damaged, you may need to replace it. This may require removing the door panel to access the housing. Follow the instructions in your car’s manual to remove the panel and replace the housing.

Step 7: Reattach the Door Panel

Once you’ve replaced the housing, reattach the door panel. Make sure all the screws and clips are in place and secure.

Step 8: Paint the Housing (If Necessary)

If the new housing doesn’t match the color of your car, you may need to paint it to match. You can buy paint that matches your car’s color at a local auto parts store.

Step 9: Clean the Mirror

Before hitting the road, clean the mirror to ensure it’s free of dust and debris. Use a microfiber cloth and a gentle cleaning solution to avoid scratching the mirror.

Step 10: Test Drive

Finally, take your car for a test drive to make sure the mirror is working properly. Make any necessary adjustments and enjoy your newly repaired side view mirror.