What happens when you need a new side mirror
A side mirror replacement means removing the broken or damaged mirror from your car and installing a new one in its place. The job itself is straightforward for most vehicles — it usually takes between 15 minutes and an hour, depending on whether you do it yourself or take it to a shop. You will need to decide whether to buy an original manufacturer mirror, an aftermarket mirror, or a used one, and whether to install it yourself or pay someone else to do it.
The cost varies widely. A new mirror from the car manufacturer can run $200 to $500 or more, while aftermarket mirrors often cost $50 to $200. Labor at a repair shop typically adds $50 to $200 on top of the part cost. If you install it yourself, you pay only for the mirror itself.
Key Takeaways
- Side mirror replacement involves removing the old mirror assembly and bolting a new one in place, a task most car owners can do in under an hour with basic tools.
- Original manufacturer mirrors cost more than aftermarket options but are may provide to fit and match your car's specifications exactly.
- You will need to remove interior door panels or trim to access the bolts holding the mirror, so check your car's manual or a repair guide for the exact steps for your model.
- If your mirror has power adjustment or heating, you must disconnect the electrical connector before removal and reconnect it on the new mirror.
Deciding between OEM, aftermarket, and used mirrors
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) mirrors are made by your car's manufacturer or an authorized supplier. You order them through a dealership using your vehicle identification number (VIN). These mirrors match your car's exact specifications, color, and fit. They cost the most but carry a warranty and eliminate guesswork about compatibility.
Aftermarket mirrors are made by third-party companies and sold through auto parts stores, online retailers, or repair shops. They are cheaper than OEM mirrors but vary in quality. Some fit and function identically to the original; others may have slightly different dimensions, color matching, or durability. Read reviews specific to your car model before buying.
Used mirrors come from salvage yards or online marketplaces. They are the cheapest option but carry no warranty and may have hidden damage or wear. A used mirror is worth considering only if you are replacing a mirror temporarily or on a tight budget, and you inspect it in person before purchase.
What you need to remove and install a mirror yourself
Removing a side mirror requires access to the bolts on the inside of the door. On most cars, you will need to peel back or remove the interior door panel trim. You will also need a socket set or wrench that fits the bolts (usually 10mm or 12mm), a screwdriver to help pry off trim pieces, and possibly a trim removal tool to avoid cracking plastic clips.
If your mirror has power adjustment, heated glass, or turn signals built in, you will need to disconnect the electrical connector before removal. This connector is usually a straightforward plug-and-play design located behind the door panel. Take a photo of it before unplugging so you know which way it goes back in.
Once you have the new mirror, installation is the reverse of removal: reconnect any electrical connectors, align the mirror in the door frame, and bolt it down. Tighten the bolts firmly but do not over-tighten, as you can crack the plastic mounting points.
When to take your car to a shop instead
If your car has a complex door panel design, power mirrors with multiple connectors, or if you are uncomfortable working inside the door, a repair shop is the safer choice. Dealerships and independent repair shops both offer mirror replacement. Dealerships typically charge more but may provide OEM parts and warranty work. Independent shops often cost less and may let you bring your own mirror if you found a better price elsewhere.
Some body shops specialize in mirror work and can often match the color and finish better than you can do yourself, especially if your mirror has a special paint or coating. If your mirror was damaged in a collision, a body shop may also check whether the door frame itself was bent, which could affect how the new mirror sits.
Finding the right mirror for your specific car
The easiest way to order the correct mirror is to call a dealership with your VIN. They can look up the exact part number and tell you the cost and availability. You can also use online parts retailers like RockAuto, AutoZone, or Amazon — enter your year, make, and model, and the site will show you compatible mirrors.
When ordering, specify whether you want a manual or power mirror (if your car has power mirrors, a manual mirror will not work), and whether you need heated glass if your car came with that feature. Check the color code on your door jamb or in your owner's manual to make sure the mirror will match your car's paint.
If you are buying an aftermarket mirror, look for one with good reviews on the specific model of your car. A mirror that works well on a Honda Civic may not fit the same way on a Honda Accord, even though both are Hondas.
Checking your insurance coverage
If your mirror was damaged by another vehicle, weather, or vandalism, your car insurance may cover the replacement. Check your policy's collision or comprehensive coverage. Collision covers damage from an accident; comprehensive covers weather, theft, and vandalism. Your deductible applies, so if your deductible is $500 and the mirror costs $300, you pay the full $300 out of pocket.
If you decide to file a claim, your insurance company may direct you to a preferred repair shop or let you choose your own. Some policies require you to get a quote first. Keep receipts and photos of the damage for your claim file.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive with a broken side mirror?
Laws vary by state. Most states require both side mirrors to be functional, and some require a working driver's side mirror at minimum. Driving with a broken mirror can result in a ticket. Even if it is legal where you are, a missing mirror reduces your visibility and makes driving less safe.
How long does a side mirror replacement take at a shop?
Most shops can complete a mirror replacement in one to two hours, though you may need to leave your car for a few hours or a full day depending on how busy they are. If the mirror is in stock, the job is usually faster. If they need to order the part, you will wait several days.
What if the new mirror does not fit or the color does not match?
If you ordered from a dealership using your VIN, fit and color should be may provide. If you bought an aftermarket mirror and it does not fit, contact the seller about a return or exchange. Color mismatches are harder to fix — if the paint is slightly off, a body shop can repaint the mirror to match, though this adds cost.
Do I need to reprogram a new power mirror?
Most power mirrors do not require programming — they work as soon as you plug in the electrical connector. Some luxury vehicles may have mirrors with memory settings that need to be reset through the car's menu system. Check your owner's manual or ask the shop if your car requires this step.
Is it cheaper to replace just the mirror glass instead of the whole mirror?
Some mirrors have replaceable glass panels that snap or glue into the frame. If only the glass is cracked, replacing just the glass costs less than replacing the entire mirror assembly. However, not all mirrors are designed this way. Check whether your mirror supports glass-only replacement before assuming it is an option.