What is a Door Mirror Assembly?
A door mirror assembly, also known as a side view mirror, is an essential component in every vehicle. It consists of the mirror and its housing, and sometimes incorporates additional features such as turn signals, heaters, or blind-spot monitors. The door mirror assembly helps drivers view the road behind and to the side of them, making it crucial for safe driving.
How Much Will it Cost to Replace a Door Mirror Assembly in Canada?
The cost of replacing a door mirror assembly can vary widely based on your car’s make and model, and the complexity of the mirror assembly:
• Parts: A new door mirror assembly typically costs between $50 and $300. Higher-end models with additional features like blind-spot monitoring or signal lights can cost more.
• Labour: Labour costs can range from $50 to $100, with the replacement generally taking about 1 to 2 hours.
• Total: On average, you can expect to pay between $100 and $400 for a door mirror assembly replacement.
What are the Symptoms of a Faulty Door Mirror Assembly?
Symptoms of a faulty door mirror assembly can include:
• Inability to Adjust the Mirror: If the mirror does not move or only moves in certain directions, this could indicate an issue with the actuator motor or control switch in power-adjusted models.
• Poor Visibility: If the mirror is scratched, cloudy, or discolored, this can impede visibility and signal a problem with the mirror glass itself.
• Physical Damage: Cracks, chips, or complete breakage of the mirror or its housing are clear signs of a problem.
• Loose or Vibrating Mirror: If the mirror shakes or seems loose while driving, this could mean it’s not properly mounted, indicating an issue with the assembly.
• Electrical Problems: For models with power mirrors, problems with the heating function or turn signal lights (if applicable) could suggest wiring issues or blown fuses.
• Inoperable Folding Function: If your vehicle has power-folding mirrors and they do not fold in or out as designed, there could be a defect in the folding motor or control switch.
How Long Does a Door Mirror Assembly Last?
The lifespan of a door mirror assembly is typically the life of the vehicle itself. However, because of its location on the vehicle, it can easily be damaged by collisions, vandalism, or environmental factors like weather and road debris.
How Does a Door Mirror Assembly Become Defective?
A door mirror assembly can become defective due to several reasons:
• Physical Damage: One of the most common ways a door mirror assembly can become defective is through physical damage. This can occur from an accident, collision with an object, or even vandalism.
• Electrical Issues: For cars with power-adjusted or heated mirrors, electrical problems can cause the door mirror assembly to fail. This could be due to faulty wiring, a blown fuse, or a malfunctioning motor in the assembly.
• Wear and Tear: Over time, the components of the door mirror assembly can degrade. For example, the mirror glass can become scratched or cloudy, reducing visibility. The moving parts responsible for adjusting the mirror can also wear out, making it difficult to properly position the mirror.
• Weather: Exposure to extreme weather conditions can also damage a door mirror assembly. For example, the mirror glass can crack due to cold temperatures, or the assembly’s moving parts can rust or seize up due to moisture.
• Defective Components: If any part of the door mirror assembly is defective from the factory, this can cause the entire assembly to fail. This could include a poor quality mirror, a weak motor, or defective controls.
How Can a Faulty Door Mirror Assembly Affect Other Systems in the Car?
• Visibility and Safety: The primary function of a door mirror assembly is to provide the driver with visibility of the areas behind and to the side of the car, especially the blind spots. A faulty mirror assembly can lead to decreased visibility, potentially resulting in an accident.
• Driver Information System: In some modern cars, the door mirror assembly is integrated with the car’s driver information system, providing alerts for various safety features like blind-spot monitoring or lane departure warnings. A faulty mirror assembly can disrupt these safety systems.
• Power Systems: If the door mirror assembly is electrically powered for adjustments or heating, a fault could potentially impact the car’s electrical system, causing a drain on the battery or affecting other electrical components.
• Automatic Folding Systems: Some vehicles are equipped with automatic folding mirrors that retract when the vehicle is locked. A faulty door mirror assembly could affect this function, potentially leading to further damage if the mirror is hit while extended.
• Aerodynamics: While relatively minor, the door mirrors do contribute to a vehicle’s overall aerodynamics. A mirror that is persistently in the wrong position could slightly affect the vehicle’s aerodynamics and fuel efficiency.
Is it Safe to Drive with a Faulty Door Mirror Assembly?
Driving with a faulty door mirror assembly can significantly impair a driver’s ability to safely operate a vehicle. Mirrors are a critical component of a car’s safety system, providing the driver with visibility to areas that are not easily seen with direct vision. A compromised mirror can lead to blind spots, which increases the risk of accidents, particularly when changing lanes or reversing. If the mirror is cracked, loose, or unable to be adjusted properly, it can impair the driver’s field of view. Therefore, a faulty door mirror should be repaired or replaced as soon as possible.
However, in some cases, it may be legally permissible to drive with a faulty door mirror, depending on local laws and regulations. In some jurisdictions, it may be a legal requirement to have two functional mirrors, typically the interior rear-view mirror and the driver’s side mirror. It’s important to note that even if it’s legally acceptable, it’s not safe to drive without fully functional mirrors. A compromised mirror can limit the amount of information a driver can take in about their surroundings, which can significantly increase the risk of a collision. Therefore, for safety reasons, it’s always recommended to have all mirrors in proper working condition.
How Can I Make My Door Mirror Assembly Last Longer?
To maintain your door mirror assembly:
• Park in secure areas to avoid vandalism.
• Clean the mirrors regularly to maintain visibility.
• Cover your vehicle or park under cover when possible to protect against environmental damage.
Can a Mobile Mechanic Replace a Door Mirror Assembly?
Yes, a mobile mechanic can typically replace a door mirror assembly at your location, making it a convenient option for this type of repair.
Conclusion: Door Mirror Assembly Replacement
While a door mirror assembly can last for a long time, accidents and other damage can necessitate replacement. Regular maintenance and careful driving can extend its lifespan. If replacement becomes necessary, it’s a cost-effective repair that significantly improves your safety on the road.
Next Steps
Book Your Door Mirror Assembly Replacement Service
The service most frequently booked by those who read this article is Door Mirror Assembly Replacement. Uchanics’ expert technicians make the process even more convenient by bringing the service right to your doorstep. We perform this job at your home or office, covering over 40 cities in Ontario, including Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Oshawa, Ajax, Scarborough, and more. With our professional expertise, we ensure accurate and efficient door mirror assembly replacement to restore visibility and safety while driving. Choose Uchanics for your Door Mirror Assembly Replacement and experience unparalleled convenience and top-quality service.
