Your vehicle's side door mirrors are an important piece of safety equipment that minimizes blind spots around your car and are most often used during reversing or changing lanes to provide a clear view of any potential hazards to the side and rear. Because they protrude from your car's body, the side door mirrors are especially susceptible to damage from side swipes. What's more, the number of functions modern units contain means that multiple parts in the side door mirrors can fail. Read on to learn more about side door mirrors to make the right purchase when the need arises.

Side Door Mirror Types

Planar, Convex, Aspheric

The surface of the side door mirror is either planar, convex, or aspheric. It's usually convex or aspherical on the passenger's side to provide the driver with a better field of vision. However, aspherical and convex mirrors distort the reflection and, as such, come with warning signs.

Manual vs Electric Adjustment and Folding

Side door mirrors can come with electric adjustment and folding capabilities. Electrically adjusting mirrors can be adjusted using intuitive electronic controls according to the driver's preferences. Side door mirrors with electrical folding capability will also fold open or close without pushing or pulling them physically.

Digital

Side door mirrors can be digital, using cameras to feed real-time video of what's going on at the side and rear of the vehicle. These provide better visibility because of their wide-angle lenses and adjustable light sensitivity.

Basic Side Door Mirror Parts

While many are more complex, a car's side door mirror typically consists of a few key components, including the mirror glass, housing, and the whole mirror, which includes the adjustment mechanisms and other integrated features.

・Mirror Glass: The mirror glass is the mirror's reflective surface.
・Mirror Covers / Housing: The cover is the protective housing of the mirror that can feature built-in indicators.
・Whole Mirror: The whole mirror refers to the mirror glass, cover, and internal housing that includes wires, plugs, and connections for electronics.

How to Choose the Right Side Door Mirrors

Vehicle Compatibility

To guarantee a proper fit, ensure that you get side door mirrors specific to your vehicle, as they can differ between models and even model years.

Driver Side vs Passenger Side Differences

Because of the distance from the driver, the passenger side door mirrors are usually convex or aspherical to give a better field of vision. On the other hand, driver door mirrors are generally flat for a 1:1 reflection. You must get one for the correct side and role, especially since the driver's side is not the same for every region.

Aftermarket or OEM

Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) side door mirrors are those made by either the car brand itself or its authorized manufacturers, whereas aftermarket side door mirrors are made by third-party manufacturers.

We recommend investing in OEM side door mirrors to return your vehicle to its original level of performance. Because of the more stringent levels of manufacturing, you'll likely get more use out of an OEM replacement. Not to mention, aftermarket units may void your vehicle's warranty.

When to Replace Your Side Door Mirrors

Damaged or Missing

It's unsafe to drive without proper sight of the rear and sides of your vehicle. As such, damaged or missing side door mirrors should be replaced immediately.

Reflecting Surface Impairs Driver's View

The mirror surface might be damaged, or there might be cracks that impair your view. In such cases, the mirror glass should be swapped out.

Loose Mounting or Base

A side door mirror might hang loosely if the mounting and base have been damaged. In most cases, the whole mirror should be replaced.

The Mirror is Not Adjustable

When the mirror is not folding and adjusting automatically, there might be issues with the motors or wiring. Check with a trusted automobile professional to determine what needs to be replaced.

Mirror Indicator Doesn't Work

If the indicator lights on your side door mirror are not working, there might be an issue with the wiring and bulbs. Check with a trusted automobile professional to determine what needs to be replaced.

Routine Side Door Mirror Maintenance

Cleaning and Upkeep

Side door mirrors should be kept clean to give you good visibility. You can clean them with soap, water, and a sponge. Additionally, you can maintain the function of the hinging mechanism by applying lubricants.

Safe Driving Habits

Side door mirror damage is usually caused by negligence. You can avoid damage by adopting safe driving habits, such as not driving on narrow roads, proper lane discipline, and taking care when parking.

Replacing Your Side Door Mirrors

To replace the side door mirror, you'll need:

1. Replacement mirror
2. Screwdriver set with different sizes and heads
3. Hooked pick
4. Panel removal lever
5. Trim pad remover

First, remove the mirror trim panel with the panel removal lever. Next, remove the decorative screw caps with the hooked pick and then the screws. Then, remove the door handle bezel. These might be held in place by screws. Remove the door panel and then the mounting screws holding the side door mirror. Disconnect the old mirror and connect the new one. Test to make sure it works before reinstalling the door panel by repeating the steps in the reverse order.

What to Look for When Buying Used Side Door Mirrors

Make sure the side door mirror you're buying is for the right side and has all the features of your current one. Also, verify that it's in good condition--the mirror glass should be clear, and the mounting points should be undamaged. The cover should also be free from major damage. For used side door mirrors that are in good condition and at great prices, shop with BE FORWARD Auto Parts.