How To Replace Subaru Side Mirrors - AllCarIndex
So, you’ve decided that your Subaru’s side mirror needs to be replaced. This can happen for many reasons, but seeing as though it is an essential and helpful part of your car that keeps you safe on the road, it’s always best to ensure it’s in good knick.
It’s a relatively easy fix that can be done at home if you have all the right equipment and the replacement mirror. So, whether you’re looking to save some cash on fees or fix up a DIY project, here’s our guide to helping you replace your Subaru’s side mirrors.
What tools are needed?
First, the tools you need will differ slightly depending on the Subaru you’re working with, but the following will generally be the same for most models.
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Interior trim tool set
- Ratchet and extensions
- 8mm socket
Finding A Replacement Side Mirror
If you’re looking to purchase the OEM side mirror assemblies, it can be expensive to go through a dealership. The good news is that you can get genuine OEM side mirror assemblies at an affordable price when you buy through My Auto Parts, where you can shop all your Subaru parts online.
How to replace your Subaru side mirror
Once you have your tools and replacement side mirror ready, you’ll be all good to get busy installing it. It’s not the most difficult item to replace, especially when following the steps below.
1. On the side with the damaged side mirror, open the door
2. Now, remove the triangular trim piece on the inside of the door, which is directly opposite to the mirror
3. Remove the interior door handle trim piece and the grab handle trim piece
4. Next, you’ll find two screws: one holding the door grab handle in place and the other holding the door handle in place. Remove both screws
5. Now, you’ll need to remove the interior door panel, but this requires you to disconnect the wiring from the window switches and other electronics
6. Should there be any connectors from the side mirror, you will have to now disconnect them
7. Next, it’s time to remove the plastic screw cover opposite to the side mirror and remove all the bolts holding the side mirror in place
8. Now, the side mirror assembly from the door
9. Place the weather guard on the new side mirror
10. Once the new side mirror is ready to be put on your Subaru, you will follow the reverse order of removing the mirror
Can I just replace the side mirror glass?
Yes. It’s possible to just replace the side mirror glass. When a part of your car breaks, it’s almost a natural instinct to want to see how you can save some cash when getting it replaced or repaired. However, just replacing the glass may not be the best solution to your problem. So, before you go and buy or order replacement glass, first check:
Is the side mirror assembly still working?
When it’s just the glass that’s broken, then sure, it makes the most sense to just replace the mirror without forking out the cash for a whole new side mirror assembly. Here’s what you should also inspect:
- Look for any damage on the side mirror housing, including cracks, dents and missing pieces, for example
- Check if anything feels loose by giving it a gentle shake
- Check the controls for any electrical issues if they are powered mirrors
When you’ve given it a thorough inspection, and none of these issues are noted, then it’s safe to say you can just replace the glass of the mirror.
How to replace the side mirror glass
1. First, cover the side mirror glass in tape (either masking or painter’s tape will do) to prevent any broken glass from falling
2. Next, tilt the side mirror glass to face up
3. Using a flat-blade screwdriver, loosen the retaining tabs on the back of the side mirror glass from its mounting plate. The flat-blade screwdriver can be inserted into two channels to remove the glass:
- one on the right bottom side
- one on the left bottom side
4. When you feel the glass is loose enough, it’s time to remove it using your hands
5. Check if the glass is connected to any wiring, and unplug it
6. Now, plug any connectors into the new glass
7. Slide the new glass for the side mirror in from the bottom to help it catch all the hooks in order to click back in place
Final Thoughts
Replacing your Subaru’s side mirror doesn’t have to be an expensive job that you need to go to the dealership or mechanic to fix. Those who are confident in their skills can take matters into their own hands, save a few dollars, and get some bonding time with their vehicle.