Even though they are often overlooked, side mirrors are an essential component of every car. You probably check this mirror every time you drive to see what’s going on behind the automobile. We tend to neglect the side view mirror until it is covered with snow, dust, and is too filthy to do its function.
Nevertheless, like all other automotive parts, they are subject to wear and tear over time and may get cracked or chipped as a result of a collision. You are putting your safety at danger if you do not have them fixed or replaced. Many individuals believe that a damaged or chipped side mirror is utterly irrelevant, but still it poses major safety concerns when driving. This write-up will teach you how to replace the glass in your side mirrors.
There are several situations when your side view mirror can get severely damaged. It may have happened when you were attempting to park in a tight location, or it could have happened while you were driving about town. In any case, driving with a broken or damaged side view mirror glass is not recommended. It will not only endanger others’ safety, but it will also result in a failing MOT certificate.
The extent of the damage to the side view mirror glass is determined by how quickly you were travelling. If they collide with something at a low speed, the side view mirrors will most likely snap back. Other times, simply a few scratches and cracks would be seen instead of the full mechanical component hanging out. We’ve also experienced instances when the side view mirror glass was improperly installed and burst out at a speed breaker or a pothole. When your automobile is facing the jerk, the force is strong enough to shock the mirror away from the backing plate. Check that your mirror glass is properly fastened.
Car Side View Mirrors and Their Functions
Before we get into how to repair side mirror glass without damaging it, let’s have a look at some of the useful aspects of side mirrors.
Remote Control
This is one of the most simple and smooth characteristics of the side view mirrors. The majority of current automobiles are outfitted with remote adjustment functions, allowing the driver to adjust the mirror to his or her liking while still seated inside the vehicle. The driver and passenger side mirrors are controlled by a button located near the driver’s seat. This provides for a highly personalised experience for all types of drivers.
Heater (Electric)
Cold temperatures and snowstorms can leave a frozen film on the mirror glass. The electric heating element, which is featured in many current car models, thaws the snow, water, or dew and restores the mirror to its former sparkling beauty.
Dimming via Electrochromic
Electrochromic Dimming is the most recent innovation that improves the comfort and safety of your driving experience. The function essentially modifies the reflecting qualities of the mirror to reduce glare from the headlights of vehicles behind you.
How to Replace Your Side View Mirror Glass?
Side mirror glass replacement in modern vehicles is a simple and affordable job. Most of the time, you won’t even need any equipment for the work. Here’s how to repair the side view mirror glass without causing any further harm.
Replacing the Mirror
Step 1: Removing the cracked mirror
Access the area behind the wind mirror using a plastic pry bar. You may stick your fingers behind it via a little opening, but be careful with the shattered glass. You can pop the mirror off of the clips with a little work. You could find a few cables attached to the mirror if the mirror has extra functions like built-in signalling or a heating mechanism. Before taking out the mirror, unplug them and label them.
In another instance, you can peel the damaged side mirror off by taking off the ornamental cover from the mirror’s rear.
Step 2: Putting tabs and clips
Examining the clips and tabs is the second step in replacing side mirror glass. Every automobile model employs a somewhat unique tab and clip system. Recognize which clip goes into which tab. Before installing the replacement mirror, make sure to fix any damaged tabs or clips on the mounting plate.
You could wish to get in touch with the dealer for the same if you’re wanting to replace the mounting plate.
Step 3: Lining the tabs
Reattach the cables to the mirror if your side mirrors include heating elements or built-in turn signal repeaters. After that, align the taps and clips before positioning the mirror correctly on the mounting plate.
Step 4: Install the mirror
When you press hard, the clips ought to drop into position with audible clicks. Use your fingers to gently pry it to make sure it is fastened.
Step 5: Clear and reposition the mirror
That’s it; the job is finished!
Reposition the side view mirror so that you can see what is behind you clearly. Remove any smudges and fingerprints from the glass.
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR THE HIGH QUALITY & AFFORDABLE SIDE-MIRROR GLASS REPLACEMENT?
If you need a high-quality aftermarket side view mirror glass, we are available to help you. The Auto Parts Shop is an Auto Parts warehouse that provides hassle-free car parts and accessories for your damaged vehicles.
To determine if the side view mirrors require a simple fix or a full replacement, our qualified specialists are trained and here to help!