Part: Purchase a replacement side mirror assembly that is compatible with your car model and year.
Tools Required:
- Pliers
- Flat-blade screwdriver
- Socket set or wrench
- Painter’s tape (optional)
1. Safety First: Start by parking your car in a safe location, engaging the parking brake, and turning off the engine.
2. Locate the Side Mirror: Identify the driver-side mirror assembly you need to replace.
3. Remove Door panel:
- Gently pry open the plastic cover located at the base of the side mirror using a flat-blade screwdriver or a pry tool.
- Remove the exposed bolts beneath the cover.
- With a socket set or wrench, loosen and remove the bolts securing the door panel to the car's frame.
4. Disconnect Mirror Wiring:
- Once the door panel is loose, carefully pull it away from the door frame, exposing the wires connected to the side mirror.
- Disconnect the electrical connectors by pressing the release tabs and unplugging them.
- Secure the door panel to the car's frame with painter’s tape to keep it out of the way while you work.
- Disconnect the Power Mirror Switch: Inside the car, locate and remove the cover of the power mirror switch on the driver's side door panel.
- Disconnect the wiring harness connector behind the switch.
5. Unscrew the Mirror Mount:
- Return to the exterior of the car. Use a socket set or wrench to remove the nuts or bolts that secure the side mirror assembly to the door.
6. Remove the Old Mirror:
- Once the bolts are removed, carefully pull the side mirror assembly away from the door, maneuvering it through the opening in the door panel.
- Ensure that all wiring is disconnected before completely removing the mirror.
7. Install the New Mirror:
- Align the new side mirror assembly with the mounting bracket on the door.
- Secure the new mirror in place by tightening the bolts or nuts you removed earlier.
8. Reconnect Wiring:
- Re-connect the electrical connectors that were disconnected earlier. Plug the mirror switch harness back into the power mirror switch.
- Ensure all connections are secure.
9. Reinstall the Door Panel:
- Carefully place the door panel back into its original position, aligning the mounting points.
- Secure the panel by tightening the bolts you loosened earlier.
10. Install Inner Cover:
- Snap the plastic inner cover back onto the base of the side mirror assembly.
- Ensure it's securely in place.
11. Test:
- Sit inside the car and test the power mirror adjustment controls to ensure the new side mirror is functioning correctly.
Remember that if you're not comfortable performing these steps, it's best to have the mirror replaced by a professional mechanic to avoid any potential damage or electrical issues.
