- Side mirror replacement costs $40 to above $1,000, with averages around $150-$870.
- Manual types cost roughly $40-$60, while fancy side mirrors with sensors or cameras are probably going to start at least $1,000.
- Labor is additional & costs anywhere from $50 to $200.
- Driving with broken mirrors could get you multiple tickets or fail an inspection.
So, your side mirror got smashed, and you’re wondering how much it’ll cost to fix it?
Replacing a side mirror can cost anywhere from $40 to over $1,000, depending on your car’s make, model, & mirror tech.
A basic manual side mirror will be extremely cheap. However, a costly side mirror with blind-spot sensors or a rearview camera will make the price skyrocket.
We will break down the price, how to save, & whether you can even fix the side mirror yourself to keep driving without heavy damage to your wallet.
What Affects Side Mirror Replacement Cost?
The price tag hinges on a few key factors such as mirror type, vehicle make & model. Blending parts & labor adds to the cost.
Mirror Type: Manual mirrors that move in & out cost $40-$60. Power mirrors that adjust, have a heater, fold, and/or have blind spot sensors, cost $50-$800. A luxury mirror, like one for a 2021 Mercedes-AMG C43, can cost $1,340 for one mirror!
Vehicle Make & Model: Cars that are older, such as a 2005 Toyota Corolla, cost an average of $150-$200. Cost for newer luxury cars, such as a BMW 330i, can average as high as $1,060.
Labor Expense: According to RepairPal, labor has a cost of $50-$200, depending on the complexity. Local shops will cost less than dealerships.
Extras: If painting the mirror to match its color is needed, the costs will be $50-$150. Cameras or sensor calibration can range from $75-$725.
Parts Type: If the replacement part is obtained through an OEM distributor, the costs will run 20-50% more than the aftermarket parts. OEM parts will guarantee compatibility, while aftermarket parts may illuminate warning lights due to faulty sensors and cameras.
A 2022 Traverse LT owner on a forum was quoted a cost of $1,650 for a mirror with blind spot technology that was $650, while the additional $725 was for camera calibration. This is not uncommon among vehicles that have technology.
How Much Cost to Replace a Side Mirror in Different Cars
Here’s a handy table summarizing costs across different setups:
| Vehicle Type | Mirror Type | Part Cost | Labor Cost | Total Cost |
| Older (2005 Corolla) | Manual | $30-$60 | $50-$150 | $80-$210 |
| Mid-Range (2015 Civic) | Power-Adjusted | $35-$350 | $50-$150 | $85-$500 |
| Modern (2022 Traverse) | Heated/Folding | $50-$700 | $90-$200 | $140-$900 |
| Luxury (2021 BMW 330i) | Blind-Spot/Camera | $150-$1,000 | $100-$200 | $250-$1,200 |
| High-Tech (Mercedes C43) | Camera/Sensor/Auto-Dimming | $200-$1,340 | $100-$200 | $300-$1,540 |
Also Read: Paintless Dent Repair Cost
Can You Replace a Side Mirror Yourself?
The answer is yes, you can! It is possible to replace a side mirror without professional help, especially if it is a simple manual side view mirror or a basic power side mirror with minimal complications.
Tools Needed: Screws driver, ratchet, trim tool, safety glasses, & gloves.
Here are step-by-step instructions on how to replace your side mirror yourself:
- Roll the window down.
- Disconnect the electrical wiring that may be attached.
- Remove the door panel clips & fasteners with care.
- Unscrew the old mirror & remove it from the door.
- Install a new mirror, reconnect any electrical wiring, and reinstall the door panel.
If it’s just the glass that you want to replace, use a simple automotive adhesive for loose glass to ensure it can’t come back off again, or a plastic repair kit for trim if it is cracked.
Keep in mind, complicated mirrors with cameras or other types of sensors can be more complex & could be damaged if they are not installed accurately.
Because of the potential to ruin the electronics of a side mirror from an inexperienced install, larger or complicated side mirrors would be recommended to be professionally installed for safety & accuracy in high-tech scenarios.
Check out our Car Maintenance Tips if you are looking for more DIY or maintenance advice.
Where to Get Your Side Mirror Fixed
You have several options to choose from, depending on your budget & car situation:
- Auto Repair Shops- Local shops will take on both standard repairs and difficult repairs, as they are more cost-effective than a dealership.
- Dealerships- Local dealerships are a good place to take expensive brands such as Hyundai or BMW because they are likely to have the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts that meet the manufacturer’s specifications. But these repairs will cost more ($500-$1,340).
- Mobile services- Some auto repair shops will meet you at your location for repairs. This is great for someone with little time to fix their mirror.
- Auto Parts Stores- Autozone has mirrors ranging from $30-$200, but installation is on you.
Shop around to get quotes to save money from mechanics near you & pick through junkyards or CarParts.com for used parts.
Is It Legal to Drive with a Broken Side Mirror?
A driver with a broken side mirror could be in more trouble than the initial broken mirror.
Is it legal? It depends!
- Legality- Most states in the U.S. require that you have two working mirrors: one driver-side mirror & one rearview mirror, or one passenger-side mirror. You can be pulled over for a broken driver-side mirror.
- Safety- Missing a mirror can put you in harm’s way, as it increases blind spots.
- Fix It Now- You will be better off fixing it sooner rather than later in order to avoid any fines and keep yourself safe.
Before you take your car to the shop, use our VIN look-up guide for specifications on your car.
Does Insurance Cover Side Mirror Replacement?
It is possible! Mirror breakages from accidents or vandalism are usually covered with comprehensive insurance. Review your deductible.
Sometimes, it may be cheaper than a direct pay, especially with high-tech mirrors that can cost over $500.
If someone damages your mirror, you can file it with their insurance or your own & keep the receipts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much does a side mirror replacement cost?
The costs can range between $40-$1,000+, with the average usually falling between $150-$870, depending on the complications of the mirror & the make and model of your car.
Can I replace a side mirror myself?
Yes, if it is a basic mirror, these typically can be done with basic tools like a screwdriver. However, the more complicated high-tech mirrors will need to be serviced by a professional.
Can I drive with a broken side mirror?
It is not only risky, but could be illegal, as most states require two working mirrors per NHTSA.
How long does it take to replace a side mirror?
If you are doing it yourself, expect 30-60 minutes to fix it, and if a professional is doing it will likely take 1 to 2 hours.
Can I replace just the glass of a side mirror?
Yes, it is possible to use automotive adhesive to glue back the loose side mirror glass, but because the glass often comes with the full side mirror assemblies, the mirror will usually have to be replaced altogether.
Final Say
Act quickly to get a broken mirror repaired, as you don’t want a ticket or to be unsafe. If it is a simple fix, you could save yourself $50-$200 by replacing it yourself. If it is high-tech, definitely go to a professional.
I like to get multiple quotes from shops or dealerships in my area. But if your insurance covers it, that’s even better.
Do you have such experiences with fixing side mirrors? Let us know in the comments!
2 Responses
Mirror housing damaged,To be replaced,mirror not damaged.Do you have to buy whole unit?
Hey Joseph! If only the outer shell or cover is cracked, you don’t always need the whole mirror unit. Most cars let you replace just the housing or painted cap. But if the structure or mount inside the housing is broken, it’s usually smarter to change the full assembly, since that part holds the glass steady and protects the motor. The cost really depends on whether your mirror has extras like heating, folding, or blind-spot sensors, those can bump the price from about a couple hundred to close to a grand installed. What is your car?