Side Mirror Fell Off: What to Do? (Explained!)

The side mirror provides the driver an essential view to see other cars along the road. Thus, it can seem like impaired vision if one of the side mirrors fell off. If it occurs to you, you may wonder about the best way to fix the matter soon. Thus, you may ask:

If my side mirror fell off, what should I do? The best way to deal with a fallen side mirror is to put it back with a suitable bonding product such as heavy-duty glue. A fallen side mirror seems like an expensive thing to fix. However, it’s easier than you think, especially if you have the right tools.

One of the typical problems with side mirrors is that the adhesive that keeps them intact gets worn out, resulting in the fall of the mirror. While it seems expensive to repair, it’s an easy fix, and you can do it even at home.

In this article, we’ll walk you through all the things you need to know about your side mirror and how you can fix yours if it ever fell. You’ll also see answers to some of the questions related to this matter.

Without further ado, let’s get into it!

Can a Side Mirror Fell Off?

Yes, the side mirror can fall off, and it’s usually due to old age. As I mentioned earlier, side mirrors tend to fall, especially as they get old.

Standard side mirrors have glue to keep them attached to the body. Unfortunately, such an adhesive can get worn out in time.

Once the adhesive does so, it will harden and lose the stickiness that binds the mirror, eventually letting it fall.

While it’s a common problem for old cars, its repairs are pretty simple. For instance, you can reattach the mirror on your own if it falls off your car. However, you’ll need the right tools and knowledge to pull it off quickly and efficiently.

Now, you may wonder how you would deal with a fallen side mirror. So let’s have a look at it.

What Do You Do When Your Side Mirror Falls Off?

The first thing you’ll want to do when your side mirror falls off is to check out the glass and see if it’s still intact.

If the glass isn’t damaged, you need to keep it to reattach it once you got the tools. However, if the glass broke into pieces, then you’ll want to find a suitable replacement for it.

One common assumption of drivers is that the side view mirror costs a lot. However, you can find a cheaper mirror that you can use as a replacement. Thus, if you know how to install the mirror, you’ll save a lot from materials and labor fees.

Now, the next thing you’ll want is to scrape any remains of the glass in your side mirror’s case. If you still have large parts, you can take them safely by breaking them into small pieces.

Remove each glass one by one until you take out all of them. This way, you can prevent any injury you can get from the shards of glass.

The next thing you’ll want to do is to find a suitable adhesive and a replacement mirror. The glass will depend on the size of your mirror, and it varies with every car. Further, keep in mind that you’ll need a strong adhesive that’s perfect for your mirror and one that is weather-sealed.

Most people need to bring their automobile to a service professional for minor maintenance that they can do independently. For example, you may replace your broken side-view mirror using right-side view mirror glue.

Can I Glue My Car Side Mirror Back On?

Yes, you can glue your side mirror back on if it fell due to the wearing out of its adhesive. You’re lucky if the glass is still intact, as you will only need to glue it back. Unfortunately, some side mirrors fall and break, which means users will need to buy a replacement.

Now, if you want to glue your side mirror back, you’ll want to use an efficient adhesive suitable for mirrors and cars.

In general, you can find tons of options on the market these days. However, you should filter out your options and take only the adhesive that scores the following:

• Suitable for mirrors and glass
• Suitable for cars
• Weather-sealed
• Long-lasting

You can find a lot of cheap options in the market. However, you may want to do further research on the best adhesive or glue you can use to secure your side mirror and so it never falls again.

How Do You Secure a Broken Side Mirror?

If your side mirror fell, but you’re far from home or a service center, you’ll want to secure it until you reach the place. However, you also don’t want to drive without such a mirror attached to your car.

If you have any adhesive in your compartment, you can use it on your broken side mirror. However, you’ll still want to support it as it may fall even with just a tiny bump or a rough road.

You can use a rope or anything with you to make sure that it won’t fall off. Now, if you want to be sure, you can take the glass out and slowly drive until you reach a service center to have it repaired.

To avoid such kinds of situations, we suggest you always have a good brand of adhesive in your compartment at all times. This way, you can use it if ever your side mirror falls.

Is It Hard to Replace a Side Mirror?

It’s more accessible and more affordable than you can imagine replacing a damaged side-view mirror. However, finding the concealed fasteners is the most challenging step after you have the appropriate tools.

Now, since glue plays a crucial role in replacing the side mirror, you’ll want to find the best one around.

A silicon-based adhesive is the type of product that we suggest. Merssavo Side View Mirror Glass Clear Silicone Adhesive Glue is an excellent adhesive that you can buy online.

You’ll also need masking tape for bonding, a new mirror, and a heat gun. Because you’ll most likely replace your damaged side-view mirror away from a power source, an extension cable will come in handy.

We also suggest using protective gear when working with side view mirror adhesive since it may be hazardous if consumed or comes into touch with an exposed eye. You might also need a pail to catch all the shattered glass that could harm your feet.

How Long Does It Take To Replace Side Mirror?

The process of replacing side mirrors depends on many factors. Among these is the type of car, the level of damage, and the type of tools you have.

A skilled specialist can replace the mirror in one to two hours, depending on the intricacy of the repair operation. Depending on the situation, the inside door panel may or may not need to be removed.

Now, if you plan on doing it on your own, it may take you a couple of hours, especially if you’re not familiar with the process.

It shouldn’t take more than an hour or two since it’s only about reattaching a mirror with an adhesive.

How Much Does It Cost to Reattach a Side Mirror?

In most cases, the cost of replacing a side mirror ranges from $100 to $500. It covers both service and supplies.

It may be a bit more affordable to replace the mirror yourself. However, keep in mind that you may have to spend more if you did a poor job replacing the mirror.

For this reason, you’ll want to make sure you understand everything you need to do before taking on the broken side mirror.

Will Insurance Cover Broken Side Mirror?

A broken side mirror may or may not be covered by insurance. In general, it will depend on the kind of insurance you have.

A damaged side mirror is covered by full coverage vehicle insurance. If you cause someone else’s side mirror to be hit, your liability insurance should cover it.

You’ll still need to spend some money on other fees. For instance, keep in mind that your rates may rise. Thus, you should consider if filing a claim is worthwhile and an intelligent move.

Summary

In a nutshell, a side mirror that fell is still fixable. So while you can take your car to a service center or a mechanic, you can do the task yourself as long as you have the right tools. One thing you’ll need is a suitable adhesive, and you’ll only need to know how to apply it.

As always, make sure that you note all the steps you need to take as you fix the mirror. If you did a poor job in putting back the mirror, you’d end up spending more than what you’re supposed to.

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