How To Stick A Car Wing Mirror Back On

How to Stick a Car Wing Mirror Back On

A broken car wing mirror can be a major inconvenience, especially if it's a side mirror that's critical for safe driving. But there's no need to panic! While a completely shattered mirror usually requires a replacement, a loose or partially detached mirror can often be fixed with a bit of adhesive and a bit of patience. This article will guide you on how to effectively stick your car wing mirror back on, saving you the cost and hassle of a professional repair.

Assessing the Damage

Before starting any repairs, it's crucial to assess the extent of the damage. A simple crack in the mirror's glass will require a replacement. However, if the mirror housing is loose, broken, or has come unglued, it might be fixable. Carefully examine the area where the mirror attaches to the car door. Look for any cracks, breaks, or missing parts on the housing. If the damage is significant, you may need to consider a professional repair or a new mirror assembly.

Gathering the Necessary Tools and Materials

Once you've assessed the damage, you'll need the following tools and materials:

A clean, dry cloth
A small brush or vacuum cleaner
A suitable adhesive or sealant (e.g., epoxy, super glue, or automotive adhesive)
A small putty knife or scraper (optional)
Gloves (optional)

Choose an adhesive that is specifically designed for automotive applications. Avoid using general-purpose adhesives, as they may not provide a strong enough bond or be resistant to heat and vibrations. Some options include epoxy, super glue, or specialized automotive adhesives. Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully before applying the adhesive.

Step-by-Step Guide to Sticking a Car Wing Mirror Back On

Once you have gathered your supplies, follow these steps:

Prepare the surfaces: Clean the area where the mirror attaches to the car door and the back of the mirror housing thoroughly. Remove all dirt, debris, and any existing adhesive residues. Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe the surfaces, and a small brush or vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or particles. If the surfaces are particularly dirty or greasy, you can use a mild detergent and water to clean them, but ensure they're completely dry before proceeding.
Apply the adhesive: Apply a thin, even layer of adhesive to the back of the mirror housing. Make sure to cover the entire area where the mirror will attach to the door. Avoid using too much adhesive, as this can create a messy and difficult-to-clean situation. For a strong bond, use a putty knife or scraper to spread the adhesive evenly.
Position the mirror: Carefully position the mirror back onto the car door, ensuring it's aligned properly. Gently press down on the mirror to ensure good contact with the door. Depending on the type of adhesive used, you may need to hold the mirror in place for a few minutes or longer to allow the adhesive to set.
Secure the mirror: To secure the mirror in place, you can use masking tape or a rubber band. This will help to prevent the mirror from moving while the adhesive dries. Leave the tape or band in place for the recommended drying time specified on the adhesive's instructions.
Allow the adhesive to cure: Once the adhesive is completely dry, remove the masking tape or rubber band. Do not use the mirror for at least 24 hours to allow the adhesive to fully cure. This ensures a strong and lasting bond.

Before driving your car, ensure the mirror is securely fixed and will not fall off while driving. If you are unsure about sticking your car wing mirror back on, consider taking it to a professional mechanic for repair.

Additional Tips for a Successful Fix

Here are some additional tips to ensure your car wing mirror fix is successful:

Work in a well-lit area: Ensure adequate lighting to see what you are doing and to avoid accidentally damaging the mirror or your car.
Protect your hands: Wear gloves to prevent any adhesive from getting on your hands.
Use caution when applying adhesive: Avoid using too much adhesive, as this could make it difficult to clean up and might not dry correctly.
Avoid using strong solvents: Do not use solvents to clean the surfaces before applying adhesive, as they could weaken the bond.
Test the mirror: After the adhesive has cured, gently test the mirror to ensure it is securely attached. If it feels loose, repeat the process with fresh adhesive.

By following these steps, you can successfully stick your car wing mirror back on, saving yourself time and money.