How to Tell When It’s Time to Replace Your Wing Mirrors (and How to Do It Yourself)
How to Tell When It’s Time to Replace Your Wing Mirrors (and How to Do It Yourself)
Read time: Approx. 3 minutes
Keeping your wing mirrors in tip-top condition is a matter of safety, legality and passing your MOT first time. In this guide, you’ll learn the tell-tale warning signs that your mirrors are past their prime, gather the right tools, and walk through a simple DIY replacement. Ready to banish that wobbly, cracked or unresponsive mirror? Let’s crack on!
Why Wing Mirrors Matter
Your wing mirrors are your car’s eyes on the side: they help you spot overtaking traffic, judge distances when manoeuvring and comply with legal requirements. A faulty or damaged mirror isn’t just annoying; it can:
- Create dangerous blind spots
- Earn you a failing grade at your MOT
- Result in a hefty fine if you’re caught driving without proper visibility
By the end of this post, you’ll know exactly when to swap them out and how to do it yourself, saving time and cash.
Spotting the Warning Signs
Obvious Physical Damage
- Cracked or shattered glass: Even hairline cracks distort your view and worsen over time.
- Broken housing or stalk: If the mirror casing is loose, wobbly or hanging off, it’s begging for replacement.
Functional Failures
- Electric adjustment unresponsive: When the joystick does nothing, you’re driving blind on one side.
- Heated mirror dead: Frosty winter mornings demand properly working demisters.
- In-built indicator/LED failure: Non-flashing indicators are a hazard and may land you a fine.
Safety & Legal Cues
- Blind-spot overlaps: Your mirror’s angle can’t be adjusted wide enough to cover your blind spot.
- MOT “dangerous” or “major” advisory: Any advisory regarding your mirrors means action is needed.
Tools & Parts You’ll Need
Before you get your hands dirty, assemble the right kit:
- Trim-removal tool: Plastic spudger to pop off interior panels without scratching.
- Socket set & Torx bits: Typically T20–T30 or 10 mm/12 mm sockets depending on make and model.
- Replacement mirror unit: Choose genuine or high-quality aftermarket from Trade Vehicle Parts—enter your reg for perfect fit and free UK delivery.
- Safety gear: Gloves and eye protection for peace of mind.
Prep Work: Before You Begin
- Park safely: On level ground, engine off and handbrake on.
- Protect your paint: Lay a soft cloth or masking tape around the door panel.
- Disconnect the battery (optional): For cars with sensitive electronics, it’s a sensible precaution.
Step-by-Step Replacement Guide
Removing the Old Mirror
- Remove interior trim: Use your trim tool to gently unclip the door’s triangular cover.
- Disconnect wiring: If equipped, press the plug-release tab and pull the connector free.
- Unbolt the mirror: Use the correct socket or Torx bit to remove the three securing bolts. Keep them safe!
Fitting the New Unit
- Position the new mirror housing: Align the bolts with the mounting holes.
- Tighten bolts: Hand-thread first, then nip up snugly—don’t overdo it.
- Reconnect wiring: Clip the harness back in; you should hear a reassuring click.
- Test functions: Switch the ignition on and verify electric adjustment, heating and indicators work.
Refitting & Final Checks
- Replace the trim panel: Press firmly until you hear the clips engage.
- Shake test: Give the mirror a gentle wobble to ensure it’s secure.
- Road-test alignment: A short spin to make sure you’ve got full visibility and no vibrations.
Hacks & Common Pitfalls
- Magnet-on-a-stick trick: Drop a bolt? A magnetic screwdriver or telescopic pick-up tool is your best friend.
- Avoid pinched wiring: Route cables loosely—if you feel resistance, you’re doing it wrong.
- Don’t overtighten: Overzealous torque can crack the mirror housing or strip threads.
Pro tip: Search “wing mirror replacement tools” to find budget tool-kits perfect for one-off jobs.
When to Call in the Pros
Sometimes DIY just isn’t worth the stress. Book a professional if you have:
- Structural damage: Bent door frames or broken mounting brackets.
- Complex electronics: Memory-folding or auto-dimming mirrors can be tricky.
- Warranty or insurance work: Better to let the experts preserve your cover.
FAQ
- Can I replace just the glass?
- Yes—many aftermarket kits offer glass-only options, but beware of fit and adhesive quality.
- How much should I budget?
- Expect to spend £30–£100 for glass-only, £80–£250 for a full housing, depending on make/model.
- Will my indicators still work?
- Providing you choose the correct unit and reconnect the wiring properly, all indicators, heaters and electrics will function as before.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Congratulations—you’ve just levelled up your car’s safety and style! No more dodgy reflections or MOT stress. Ready for a perfect-fit wing mirror?
Browse genuine and high-quality aftermarket wing mirrors at Trade Vehicle Parts—enter your reg for a hassle-free fit and free UK delivery straight to your door.
