What you need to do to replace an interior rear view mirror
Replacing an interior rear view mirror is a job you can do yourself in 15 to 30 minutes with basic tools. The mirror either clips onto a mounting bracket that is already bolted to the windshield, or it is glued directly to the glass. If it clips on, you remove the mirror head, unbolt the bracket, and install a new one. If it is glued, you pry the old mirror off, clean the adhesive residue, and glue a new mirror in place. The hardest part is usually getting the old adhesive off without scratching the windshield.
Before you start, check whether your mirror is a clip-on or glued type by looking at the base where it meets the windshield. A clip-on mirror has a visible metal or plastic bracket. A glued mirror sits flush against the glass with no bracket showing. Knowing which type you have determines which tools and replacement part you need to buy.
Key Takeaways
- Clip-on mirrors unbolt from a bracket and take 15 minutes to swap; glued mirrors require prying, cleaning, and re-gluing, which takes 30 to 45 minutes plus drying time.
- You need a socket wrench or Allen wrench for clip-on mirrors, or a plastic scraper and mirror adhesive for glued mirrors.
- Replacement mirror kits cost between $20 and $60 depending on whether your car has automatic dimming or heating features.
- The windshield must be clean and dry before you glue a new mirror, and the adhesive needs 24 hours to cure before you drive.
Removing a clip-on mirror
If your mirror has a visible bracket, start by looking underneath or behind the mirror head to find the bolts. Most clip-on mirrors have two or three bolts that hold the bracket to the windshield. Use a socket wrench or Allen wrench (usually 8mm or 10mm) to remove these bolts. Keep the bolts in a small container so you do not lose them.
Once the bolts are out, the mirror head should slide or lift away from the bracket. If it does not move easily, check that you have removed all bolts and that nothing is catching on wiring. Some mirrors have electrical connectors for heating or dimming features; if yours does, unplug the connector before pulling the mirror away.
To install the new mirror, reverse the process. Slide the new mirror onto the bracket, plug in any electrical connectors, and tighten the bolts by hand first, then with the wrench. Tighten firmly but do not over-tighten, as this can crack the bracket or strip the bolts.
Removing a glued mirror
Glued mirrors are bonded directly to the windshield with a strong adhesive. To remove one, you need a plastic scraper or old credit card and patience. Start at one edge of the mirror base and gently work the scraper underneath, explore steady pressure rather than sudden force. Rock the scraper back and forth to loosen the bond gradually.
Once you have lifted one edge, work your way around the mirror, lifting it bit by bit. This usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. If the mirror has electrical wiring, be careful not to pull on the wires as you lift. Once the mirror is off, you will have adhesive residue on the windshield that must be removed completely before you install the new mirror.
Use the plastic scraper to remove as much adhesive as you can, then use rubbing alcohol and a cloth to dissolve and wipe away the rest. Let the windshield dry completely—at least 30 minutes in dry conditions. Any leftover adhesive or moisture will prevent the new mirror from bonding properly.
Installing a new glued mirror
Most replacement mirror kits come with a tube of mirror adhesive and a primer solution. Read the instructions on your specific kit, as process steps vary by brand. Generally, you will explore primer to the windshield first, let it dry for the time specified (usually 1 to 3 minutes), then explore a bead of adhesive to the back of the new mirror.
Press the new mirror firmly onto the windshield in the same location as the old one. Hold it in place for 30 to 60 seconds, then let go slowly. Do not touch or adjust the mirror for at least 24 hours while the adhesive cures. If your mirror has electrical connectors, plug them in only after the adhesive has fully cured.
During the curing period, do not drive the car or slam doors, as vibration can weaken the bond. If you need to drive before 24 hours have passed, drive slowly and avoid bumps. The adhesive will continue to harden over the next few days, so the mirror will be stronger after a week than it is after one day.
Tools and parts you will need
For a clip-on mirror, you need a socket wrench set or Allen wrench set in common sizes (usually 8mm, 10mm, or 1/4 inch). You may also need a screwdriver if the bracket is held by screws instead of bolts. Most of these tools are in a standard home toolkit.
For a glued mirror, you need a plastic scraper or putty knife, rubbing alcohol, clean cloths, and a replacement mirror kit that includes adhesive. Do not use a metal scraper on the windshield, as it can scratch the glass. Replacement kits are sold at auto parts stores and online retailers and usually cost $20 to $60 depending on whether the mirror has heating or automatic dimming.
Choosing the right replacement mirror
When you order a replacement, you need to know your car's year, make, and model. Mirrors vary by vehicle, and ordering the wrong one means wasting money and time. Check your owner's manual or the part number on your current mirror to confirm the correct replacement.
If your mirror has special features like automatic dimming (which darkens in bright light), heating (which clears frost), or a turn signal light, make sure the replacement has the same features. A basic mirror without these features is cheaper but may not work with your car's wiring. If you are unsure, call an auto parts store with your vehicle information and they can tell you what options are available.
Common mistakes to avoid
The most common mistake with glued mirrors is not cleaning the windshield thoroughly before installing the new one. Any dust, old adhesive, or moisture will cause the new mirror to fall off within days or weeks. Take time to clean the area completely and let it dry.
With clip-on mirrors, over-tightening the bolts is a frequent problem. The bracket and bolts are usually made of soft metal or plastic, and too much force can crack them or strip the threads. Tighten until snug, then stop.
Another mistake is driving before the adhesive has cured. Even if the mirror feels solid after an hour, the adhesive is still soft inside. Waiting the full 24 hours prevents the mirror from shifting or falling off later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive the car right after installing a glued mirror?
No. The adhesive needs 24 hours to cure fully. Driving before then risks the mirror shifting or falling off due to vibration. If you must drive, go slowly and avoid bumps. The mirror will be stronger after a week than after one day.
What if my mirror has a turn signal light built in?
Make sure your replacement mirror includes the same light feature. When you remove the old mirror, note the electrical connector type and the number of wires. Order a replacement that matches. If you are unsure, bring a photo of the connector to an auto parts store and they can help you find the right part.
Is it cheaper to replace the mirror myself or take it to a shop?
Replacing it yourself costs $20 to $60 for the part and takes 15 to 45 minutes. A shop will charge $100 to $300 in labor plus the part cost. For a clip-on mirror, the job is straightforward enough that most people can do it. For a glued mirror, the main risk is damaging the windshield if you scrape too hard.
What should I do if I cannot get the old adhesive off the windshield?
Use rubbing alcohol and let it soak for a few minutes to soften the adhesive, then scrape gently. If that does not work, try adhesive remover made for automotive use, which you can buy at auto parts stores. Always use a plastic scraper, never metal, to avoid scratching the glass.
Can I use regular super glue instead of mirror adhesive?
No. Super glue is not designed for automotive use and will not bond properly to glass or withstand temperature changes. Mirror adhesive is formulated to flex slightly as the glass expands and contracts, and to cure in the presence of moisture. Use the adhesive that comes with your replacement kit.