How To Replace The Glass In A Side Mirror

Replacing the glass in a side mirror is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a matter of minutes. However, there are a few essential aspects to keep in mind in order to ensure a successful replacement.

Safety First

Before beginning, it is important to take safety precautions to avoid injury. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying glass shards. If the mirror is still attached to the vehicle, disconnect the battery to prevent electrical shock.

Tools and Materials

You will need the following tools and materials to replace the glass in a side mirror:

New side mirror glass
Flathead screwdriver
Phillips head screwdriver
Plastic trim removal tool
Clean cloth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Remove the Mirror Housing: Use the flathead screwdriver to carefully pry off the plastic cover on the back of the mirror housing. Once the cover is removed, you will see the screws that hold the mirror housing in place. Remove these screws.
Disconnect the Electrical Connector: Locate the electrical connector that is attached to the back of the mirror housing. Disconnect this connector by pressing on the release tab and pulling it straight out.
Remove the Mirror Glass: Once the electrical connector is disconnected, you can remove the mirror glass. To do this, gently pry it off the housing using the plastic trim removal tool. Be careful not to break the glass.
Clean the Housing: Before installing the new mirror glass, clean the housing to remove any dirt or debris. Use a clean cloth to wipe down the housing.
Install the New Mirror Glass: Position the new mirror glass on the housing and press it into place. Make sure that the glass is securely seated in the housing.
Reconnect the Electrical Connector: Reconnect the electrical connector by pushing it into place until it clicks.
Reinstall the Mirror Housing: Line up the mirror housing with the mounting holes on the vehicle and insert the screws. Tighten the screws securely.
Replace the Plastic Cover: Snap the plastic cover back into place on the back of the mirror housing.

Tips

If the mirror glass is cracked or shattered, it is important to wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying glass shards.
Be careful not to overtighten the screws when reinstalling the mirror housing, as this could damage the housing.
If you are having trouble removing the mirror housing, you can use a plastic trim removal tool to help pry it off.