Symptoms
- Visible crack, chip, or shattered section in the mirror glass
- Mirror housing itself is otherwise intact
- Reduced or distorted visibility in that mirror
- Possible loose glass rattling in the housing
Likely causes
- CommonImpact from a rock, another vehicle's mirror, or debrisSide mirrors are exposed and vulnerable to impacts while driving or parked.
- PossibleVandalism or accidental impact while parkedMirrors are a common target for accidental bumps in tight parking areas.
- Less commonExtreme temperature stress on existing minor damageA small existing chip can occasionally spread with temperature swings, similar to a windshield.
What to do
- Check whether the housing and motor are intact and only the glass is damaged, which is the more common and cheaper scenario.
- Look up a replacement mirror glass specific to your make, model, and mirror features (heated, blind spot indicator, auto-dimming), since these vary.
- Carefully remove the broken glass following instructions for your specific mirror type, usually by prying at designated release points.
- Reconnect any heating element wires if your mirror is heated, matching the connector orientation.
- Snap the new glass into place until it clicks or seats securely.
- Have a shop replace the glass if your mirror has advanced features (blind spot sensors, cameras) that make DIY replacement riskier.
Tools and parts
- Flathead trim tool or plastic pry tool
- Gloves (for handling broken glass)
Side mirror glass replacementSearch: “side mirror glass for [year make model] driver/passenger”
When to call a pro
See a shop for mirrors with integrated blind spot sensors or cameras, since these can be more involved to replace correctly.
Safety
Use caution
Wear gloves when handling broken or shattered mirror glass to avoid cuts.