Question: What do I do if my rear view mirror falls off?
Answer: If your rearview mirror falls off, the first thing you’ll want to do is make sure it’s still intact. Ensure the glass isn’t cracked or shattered and that all the parts are still attached.
If everything is still in one piece, reattaching the mirror to the windshield is fairly simple.
How to reattach your rearview mirror: A step-by-step guide
Step 1: Gather the necessary tools and materials
- Adhesive kit: Most auto parts stores sell rear view mirror adhesive kits. These kits typically include adhesive, an activator, and a cleaning pad.
- Screwdriver or Allen wrench: To remove the mounting button from the mirror if it’s still attached.
- Razor blade: To clean off old adhesive residue from the windshield.
- Marker: To mark the mirror’s location on the windshield.
Pro Tip: Only use adhesives designed specifically for rear view mirrors. Regular superglue may not withstand the temperature changes and vibrations in a car.
Step 2: Clean the mounting area
- Use the razor blade to scrape off any old adhesive from the windshield.
- Clean the area with the provided cleaning pad or use rubbing alcohol to ensure the surface is free of grease and dirt.
Step 3: Prepare the mounting button
- If the mounting button (the small metal piece that attaches the mirror to the windshield) is still attached, remove it using a screwdriver or Allen wrench.
- Clean the button with rubbing alcohol to remove any residue.
Step 4: Mark the position
- From the outside of the windshield, mark the spot where you’ll reattach the mirror. This helps ensure you place it correctly.
Step 5: Apply the adhesive
- Follow the instructions on your adhesive kit. Usually, you’ll need to apply the activator to both the mounting button and the windshield, wait for it to dry, and then apply the adhesive.
- Press the button firmly against the windshield in the marked spot and hold it in place for the recommended amount of time (usually around one minute).
Step 6: Attach the mirror
- Allow the adhesive to cure for the time specified in the instructions (up to 24 hours).
- Once cured, reattach the mirror to the mounting button. Ensure it’s secure and adjust the mirror to your preferred position.
Additional tips and precautions
Though reattaching a rear view mirror is a relatively simple process, there are a few additional tips and precautions to keep in mind to ensure a successful reattachment:
Choose the right time and place: Extremely hot or cold temperatures can affect the adhesive’s ability to bond properly. Working in a controlled environment, such as a garage, can help maintain optimal conditions for the adhesive to set.
Follow instructions: Follow the adhesive instructions precisely to ensure the best results. If the instructions recommend waiting for a certain period before using the mirror, adhere to that waiting period to avoid the risk of the mirror falling off again.
Safety first: If you feel unsure about the process at any point, consult a professional. Driving with a rearview mirror that is not properly attached can be dangerous—it’s better to seek help than to risk improper installation.
Sarah Gray is an insurance writer with nearly a decade of experience in publishing and writing. Sarah specializes in writing articles that educate car owners and buyers on the full scope of car ownership—from shopping for and buying a new car to scrapping one that’s breathed its last and everything in between. Sarah has authored over 1,500 articles for Jerry on topics ranging from first-time buyer programs to how to get a salvage title for a totaled car. Prior to joining Jerry, Sarah was a full-time professor of English literature and composition with multiple academic writing publications.
Giselle Gomez is an editor with over a decade of experience editing content across personal finance, education, travel, and sports. In editing for Jerry, Giselle’s focus is on making sure content is consumer and SEO-friendly and helping readers understand all things car ownership. In prior roles, she worked as a content strategist, syndication editor, and writer. Her work is featured in AP, NerdWallet.com, BestColleges.com, and more. Giselle holds a master’s degree from Arizona State University.
