Side Mirror Replacement: DIY Tips
- Tools for Side-view Mirror Replacement
- DIY Steps for Side Mirror Replacement
- Side-View Mirror Installation Tips
- FAQs
Driving a car with broken or no side mirrors is unsafe and illegal in the UAE. The absence of a side mirror can limit a driver’s visibility, posing many safety risks to everyone on the road. That said, a broken side-view mirror replacement is simple and can be done easily at home. All you need are the right tools.
Let’s go through every little detail of the DIY process to replace a side mirror.
Tools Required for Side-view Mirror Replacement
Here are the essential car repair tools required for car side-view mirror replacement:
- 4-in-1 Screwdriver
- Hooked Pick
- Panel Removal Lever
- Trim Pad Remover
Step-By-Step DIY Replacement of Side-View Mirrors

A side mirror’s role in any car is very important for visibility and safe driving. Here’s more on side mirror replacement in six easy steps:
Step 1: Remove the Side-View Mirror Trim Panel
The first step in the process is to remove the side-view mirror trim panel using a hooked pick.
Step 2: Find the Hidden Screws
See if there are any car door speakers or other screws in the door panel. If they are present, unscrew them.
Step 3: Remove the Door Panel and Door Handle Bezel
The next step is to remove the door panel, but first, remove the door handle bezel. If there’s a screw inside the bezel, unscrew it. Sometimes, it must be popped out using the hooked pick.
Step 4: Replace the Side-View Mirror
As the door panel is removed, the mounting screws of the side mirror are uncovered. Unscrew them, and the mirror must be accessible. Put the new side-view mirror in place and tighten the mounting screws.
Step 5: Test the Side-View Mirror
Before closing the door panel, it’s better to check the side-view mirror by connecting the wires to the electrical connector. It will help detect any side mirror malfunction. Connect the wires, check if the mirror works correctly and move all four ways.
Step 6: Reassemble
Reassemble the door panel, door handle bezel and trim panel in reverse order.
Side-View Mirror Installation Tips
Side-view mirrors are generally model-specific, so getting one meant for your vehicle is important. Here’s what you should look for when buying a side-view mirror for your car. Therefore, here are some side view mirror replacement DIY tips:
Check Vehicle Specifications
Read the vehicle’s owner’s manual to check the specific features of the side mirrors. If you can’t find your car-specific side mirror, wait until you find a compatible one. In such cases, the importance of rear view mirror increases to see backward.
Match Mirror Design
Ensure the replacement mirror is the same size and design as the original one. You can’t adjust wing mirrors correctly if the mirror design isn’t compatible.
Don’t Install incompatible mirrors
Installing incompatible side mirrors will cause the electrical wiring to malfunction and damage the mounting point.
FAQs
How much does the side-view mirror replacement cost?
The cost of a side-view mirror may vary from model to model. It may also depend on the quality and features a particular aftermarket side-view mirror offers.
Can I replace the glass only of the side-view mirror?
No, you can’t change the glass of the rearview mirror only. You have to change the entire unit due to the electrics.
What safety precautions are needed during the side rear view mirror replacement process?
Wear safety gloves and glasses and keep the tools out of children’s reach to avoid potential hazards.
This was everything to know about how to replace a broken side-view mirror. Follow these easy DIY steps for safe and optimal results.
Moreover, if you plan to switch to another car or upgrade to a newer model, you can browse a wide selection of used cars for sale in the UAE. Pick an option that is best suited to your requirements and budget.
For more useful DIY car repair hacks, keep reading dubizzle’s car blog. Safe Driving!
