How to Replace a Chevrolet Side Mirror

Every car comes with side mirrors, which are necessary for safety's sake. In a perfect world, side mirrors would remain in pristine shape forever. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Sometimes a side mirror malfunctions or gets broken, which calls for a replacement.

In some states, it’s illegal to drive a car with a busted or missing side mirror. You could get a “defective vehicle” or “mechanical malfunction” ticket. Tickets usually include a fine and a requirement to fix the mirror and have your vehicle inspected after the repair. It can be quite an ordeal. We strongly recommend replacing your broken side mirror as soon as possible.

Replacing your side mirror is something that can be easily done at home with a few basic tools.

Tools You'll Need

• Angled trim removal tool (Not absolutely necessary. A small slotted screwdriver will also work.)
• Small slotted screwdriver
• Appropriately sized socket (commonly 10mm)
• 1/4" socket wrench
• Socket wrench extension (Not absolutely necessary, but nice for your knuckles.)

And, of course, you need a replacement side mirror assembly! Options and prices vary, but we highly recommend getting an OEM mirror at a wholesale price from a reputable online seller like GM Parts Super Store. You could buy an aftermarket mirror but quality and fitment aren’t guaranteed. Or you could buy an OEM replacement mirror from a Chevy dealership. But they’ll always mark up the price, and you have to go there to get it. Buying an OEM replacement from a reputable online seller is the most economical and convenient choice.

To purchase an OEM replacement side mirror assembly at wholesale pricing, do a search on your Chevy year and model here.

Replacing the Side Mirror

Image credit: Ronnie's online owners manual

Disclaimer: this list of steps is based on the Silverado, but it can be applied to most Chevy models. When replacing the side mirror on a Silverado, you don’t need to remove the entire door panel. But some other Chevrolet models require this step. If your vehicle requires removing the door panel, you can find a YouTube tutorial on this specific task. Removing the panel is pretty easy, but watching the video online is worthwhile.

Removing the Old Mirror

1. Lower your side window next to the broken mirror.
2. With the angled trim removal tool, pry off the triangle-shaped cover on the inside of the truck. The cover is directly opposite the broken mirror. If you don't have a trim removal tool, use a small slotted screwdriver. A small screwdriver is more likely to put a tiny dent in the cover, so try prying in a non obvious place.
3. Carefully remove the foam sound insulation. This should reveal the mirror mounting nuts.
4. Locate the wire harness attached to the mirror and find the connector. You may have to tug the harness one way or the other to find the connector. Use the slotted screwdriver to push the release lever in the connector so you can unplug it.
5. Using the socket wrench, remove all the nuts attaching the side mirror assembly. Be careful not to drop the nuts into the door cavity. A helper to hold onto the mirror is very handy when you are removing the nuts.
6. Remove the mirror. It may be slightly stuck to the rubber seal. If needed, rock the mirror gently back and forth to free it from the seal.

Installing the New Mirror

1. Put in the new mirror and secure it by fastening the nuts.
2. Reconnect the wiring harness.
3. Replace the foam sound insulation.
4. Test the new mirror to ensure that it is connected correctly.
5. Gently push the triangle-shaped cover back into place.

That’s all! Please contact us if you have any questions about the process or if you need help ordering a replacement side mirror assembly.