What is a door mirror?
Car door mirrors are located on the side of your vehicle, and they allow you to see what’s happening around your vehicle. When side view mirrors break, it’s harder to see in your blind spots or judge if merging or changing lanes is safe.
Keep in mind: It’s illegal to drive without functional door mirrors in most states.
When should I replace the door mirror on my car?
Here are a few signs that it’s time to replace your car door mirror:
Damaged mirror glass: If your door mirror glass is cracked, shattered, or damaged from vandalism or a car accident, it's important to replace it immediately. Damaged car door mirror glass lowers visibility and can create safety issues.
Missing mirror: It is common for car door mirrors to go missing, whether from theft or from an accident. Get your mirror replaced immediately if you notice it’s no longer on your vehicle.
Mirror housing damage: If your mirror housing is dented, cracked, or damaged in another way, you should replace the entire door mirror assembly to prevent further damage.
Loose mirror: If your mirror is not holding its position and appears loose or shaky, its mounting points may be loose. Your mechanic can repair the mirror if the mourning hardware simply requires tuning, or they may suggest a replacement.
Electrical malfunctions: If your automatic mirrors fail to power adjust or if the heating or turn signals are not working properly, you may need to repair or replace the mirror assembly.
Visibility issues: Car door mirrors are prone to fogging, discoloration, and stains. If you can’t see a clear depiction of your surroundings, get your door mirrors replaced.
How often should a door mirror be replaced?
Whether they are power-adjustable or manual, car door mirrors are made to last the lifetime of your vehicle. Unfortunately, door mirrors are prone to external damage due to their protruding designs. There’s a high chance you’ll need to replace your door mirror or door mirror housing at some point throughout your vehicle's lifespan.
Can I replace my door mirror myself?
Yes, you can turn your car door mirror replacement into a DIY project. With that said, it’s generally recommended that you take your vehicle to a repair shop for this job, especially if you need to replace a power-adjustable mirror or the entire mirror housing.
If installed incorrectly, your car door mirrors could come loose from the housing and fall forward while driving, or they may not adjust correctly. To avoid any door mirror mishaps, ask a certified mechanic to get on the job.