How To Paint Side Mirror Covers

Painting side mirror covers can dramatically enhance a vehicle's appearance, offering a personalized touch or restoring faded and chipped paint. This process, while achievable for the average individual, requires careful preparation and execution to achieve professional-looking results. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to effectively paint side mirror covers.

1. Preparing the Work Area and Gathering Supplies

Before beginning the painting process, establishing a clean, well-ventilated workspace is crucial. An ideal location would be a garage or outdoor area shielded from wind and dust. Protecting the surrounding area with drop cloths or newspapers is highly recommended. Gather all necessary supplies beforehand to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted workflow.

Necessary supplies typically include:

Screwdriver (for removing mirror covers)
Sandpaper (various grits, e.g., 220, 320, 400)
Masking tape
Plastic sheeting or drop cloths
Cleaning solvent (e.g., wax and grease remover)
Primer specifically designed for plastic
Automotive paint (in desired color and finish)
Clear coat (optional, but recommended for added protection and shine)
Paint applicators (spray cans, spray gun, or high-quality brushes)
Safety glasses and gloves

2. Removing and Preparing the Mirror Covers

Consult the vehicle's owner's manual for specific instructions on removing the side mirror covers. Generally, this involves carefully prying off the cover using a screwdriver or other appropriate tool. Once removed, thoroughly clean the covers with soap and water to remove any dirt or debris. After they are dry, use a wax and grease remover to ensure a clean surface for the primer and paint to adhere to.

The next step involves sanding the mirror covers. This creates a slightly rough surface, promoting better adhesion of the primer. Start with a coarser grit sandpaper (e.g., 220-grit) and gradually move to finer grits (e.g., 320, then 400). Sanding should continue until the surface feels uniformly smooth. After sanding, clean the covers again with the cleaning solvent to remove any sanding dust.

Masking off any areas that should not be painted is a critical step. This is particularly relevant if the mirror covers have integrated turn signals or other components. Use high-quality masking tape to carefully protect these areas. Ensure the tape adheres firmly to prevent paint bleed.

3. Priming and Painting

Applying primer is essential, especially for plastic mirror covers. Primer promotes adhesion and ensures an even color coat. Apply thin, even coats of primer, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Refer to the primer manufacturer's instructions for recommended drying times.

Once the primer has dried completely, begin applying the automotive paint. If using spray cans, hold the can approximately 10-12 inches away from the surface and apply thin, even coats, overlapping each pass slightly. If using a spray gun, adjust the pressure and flow according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Multiple thin coats are preferable to one thick coat, as this minimizes the risk of runs and drips. Allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next.

For optimal results, apply several coats of paint, typically three to four, depending on the desired color saturation. After the final coat of paint has dried, a clear coat can be applied for added protection and gloss. The clear coat should also be applied in thin, even coats, allowing each coat to dry completely.

After the final coat of clear coat (if applied) has dried, carefully remove the masking tape. Allow the paint to fully cure according to the manufacturer's instructions before re-installing the mirror covers.

Reinstalling the mirror covers involves carefully aligning the covers with their respective mounting points and gently pressing them into place. Refer to the vehicle's owner's manual for specific instructions. Ensure the covers are securely fastened.

By following these steps meticulously, individuals can achieve a professional-looking finish when painting their side mirror covers, adding a personalized and revitalized touch to their vehicle's aesthetics.