How To Repair Side Mirror On Car

How To Repair a Side Mirror on Your Car

Side mirrors are essential for safe driving, providing drivers with a wide view of their surroundings. Over time, your side mirrors might sustain damage from a collision, vandalism, or even just general wear and tear. Fortunately, repairing a side mirror can be a relatively simple task for the average car owner, saving you money and a trip to the mechanic. This article will guide you through the repair process, covering common damages and offering solutions for each.

Assessing the Damage

Before attempting any repairs, you must carefully assess the damage to your side mirror. This will help determine the best course of action and what tools and materials you will need. Here are some common types of side mirror damage:

Cracked or Broken Glass: This is a common side mirror issue and can be caused by impact or even extreme temperature fluctuations.
Bent or Broken Housing: The housing, the plastic or metal frame that surrounds the mirror, can be bent or broken due to impact.
Loose or Broken Adjustment Mechanism: This can prevent the mirror from adjusting properly, making it difficult to see clearly.
Damaged Mirror Base: The base of the mirror, where it attaches to the car, can be damaged, causing the mirror to wobble or fall off.

Once you have identified the type of damage, you can move on to the repair process.

Repairing a Cracked or Broken Glass

Replacing a cracked or broken mirror glass is usually the simplest repair. Here's how to do it:

Gather your tools: You will need new mirror glass for your specific car model, a Philips screwdriver, a flathead screwdriver, and a small pry tool (if necessary).
Remove the old mirror glass: Locate the screws holding the mirror glass in place. Use a Philips screwdriver to loosen and remove the screws. You may need to use a flathead screwdriver or a small pry tool (if necessary) to gently pry the old mirror glass out of the housing.
Install the new mirror glass: Align the new mirror glass with the housing and gently slide it into place. Ensure it is seated securely.
Secure the mirror glass: Replace the screws and tighten them securely.

For some vehicles, the mirror glass might be glued or sealed to the housing. In such cases, you might need to use a heat gun to soften the adhesive before removing the old glass. Remember to wear protective goggles and gloves while working with heated adhesive.

Repairing a Bent or Broken Housing

Repairing a bent or broken housing is more complex and may require more specialized tools and techniques. Here are some options:

Minor Bends: If the bend is minor, you might be able to straighten it out using a rubber mallet or a heat gun. However, be careful not to apply excessive force, as you could further damage the housing.
Major Bends or Breaks: For major bends or breaks, you may need to replace the entire housing. Replacement housings are available online and from your local auto parts store.

Replacing the housing involves removing the old one, installing the new one, and connecting the necessary wiring and adjustment mechanisms.

Repairing a Loose or Broken Adjustment Mechanism

A loose or broken adjustment mechanism can be frustrating and dangerous, making it difficult to adjust the mirror for proper viewing. Here's how to repair it:

Locate the adjustment mechanism: On most side mirrors, the adjustment mechanism is located on the back of the mirror housing.
Inspect the mechanism: Inspect the mechanism for any loose parts, broken pieces, or worn-out gears.
Tighten or Replace Loose Parts: If the mechanism is simply loose, you can tighten the screws or bolts holding it together. However, if parts are broken or worn out, you may need to replace them.

You can purchase replacement parts online or from your local auto parts store. If you are unsure about replacing the mechanism, consult a qualified mechanic.

Repairing a Damaged Mirror Base

A damaged mirror base can cause the mirror to wobble or fall off, leading to dangerous driving conditions. If the base is simply loose, tightening the mounting screws or bolts can fix the issue. If the base is broken, you will need to replace it.

Replacing the base involves removing the old base, installing the new one, and connecting the necessary wiring and adjustment mechanisms.

Remember, safety should always be your top priority when working on your car. If you are uncomfortable with any repair, it is best to consult a qualified mechanic.