How To Put Side Mirror Glass Back On Car

How to Put Side Mirror Glass Back On a Car

A broken side mirror glass can be a frustrating experience, but it's a fairly common car repair that can be tackled by most individuals with the right tools and instructions. Replacing the glass yourself can save you money compared to professional repair services. This guide will provide a step-by-step breakdown of how to put side mirror glass back on your car, covering the necessary tools and techniques.

Tools and Materials

Before you begin, ensure you have the following tools and materials:

New side mirror glass: Ensure the new glass is compatible with your vehicle model and year. Check the part number or consult a car parts store.
Phillips screwdriver: This is likely the most common screwdriver you'll need for this task.
Flathead screwdriver: This may be needed for removing clips or pry off trim pieces.
Torx screwdriver: Some vehicles may use Torx screws. A set of Torx bits will be needed.
Pliers: Can be helpful for manipulating clips or wires.
Gloves: Wearing gloves will protect your hands from sharp edges or potential glass shards.
Optional: A small brush or vacuum cleaner for cleaning the area before replacement.

Step-by-Step Guide

The following steps provide a generalized guide. Specific procedures might vary slightly depending on your car model and side mirror design:

Disassemble the mirror housing: Start by opening the mirror housing. This is usually accomplished by releasing a lever or button located on the side of the mirror or the door. The action will release the mirror assembly from the door.
Remove the broken glass: Once the mirror housing is open, identify the broken glass. It's frequently held in place by clips or a small piece of adhesive. Gently detach the glass from the housing, taking care not to damage the surrounding frame. If the glass is shattered, it can be removed piece by piece, using pliers to remove the fragmented shards.
Prepare the new glass: Check the new glass to ensure it's clean and free of debris. If the new glass comes with an adhesive backing, make sure the adhesive is properly aligned with the glass. Some mirrors come with a plastic backing that will be replaced during this step.
Install the new glass: Carefully position the new mirror glass within the housing. Ensure it is properly aligned according to the mirror’s design and securely fits in place. If there are clips, press them into the appropriate slots.
Reassemble the mirror housing: Once the glass is securely mounted, reassemble the mirror housing by reversing the disassembly process.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips for a smoother repair:

Check the mirror’s electrical components: Before reassembling the mirror housing, inspect the wires connected to the mirror for any damage or disconnections.
Clean the area: Remove any dust, dirt, or debris from the mirror housing and surrounding area before reassembling the mirror.
Test the mirror: After reattaching the mirror, test its functionality by adjusting the mirror, turning on the power mirrors, and inspecting for proper operation.

Replacing a side mirror glass can be a simple and cost-effective DIY repair. With a little patience and the right tools, you can restore your damaged side mirror to working condition. Remember to consult your car's manual for specific instructions related to your vehicle model.