How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Passenger Side Mirror?

Replacing a passenger side mirror typically costs between $150 and $500 in total for most cars in the United States, depending mainly on the vehicle type, whether the mirror is heated or powered, and if you use a dealership, independent shop, or do it yourself. This article breaks down how those costs are calculated, what drives the price up or down, and how to decide the most sensible option for your situation.

Typical Price Range at a Glance

The cost to replace a passenger side mirror is made up of two main components: parts and labor. Prices vary significantly depending on whether you choose OEM (original manufacturer) or aftermarket parts and how complex your mirror’s features are.

Common Total Price Ranges

The following list outlines the most common cost ranges car owners can expect when replacing a passenger side mirror, based on current U.S. market averages.

• Basic manual mirror (older or economy cars): $80–$200 total
• Standard power mirror (no advanced features): $150–$300 total
• Heated or integrated turn-signal mirror: $200–$400 total
• Luxury / premium mirrors with multiple features: $300–$600+ total
• DIY replacement (aftermarket part, no shop labor): $50–$200 total

These ranges reflect typical scenarios for most passenger vehicles; unique, rare, or high-end models can fall above the top end, while very basic older vehicles might come in at the lower edge.

Breaking Down the Costs: Parts vs. Labor

Understanding how the total is built—what you pay for the mirror assembly itself and what you pay for installation—can help you decide where to save money and where not to cut corners.

Cost of the Mirror Assembly (Parts)

The price of the mirror unit itself is the single biggest variable, largely determined by features and brand.

The list below explains the typical parts cost for different types of passenger side mirrors and what generally affects these prices.

• Aftermarket basic manual mirror: $30–$80
• Aftermarket power mirror (no advanced tech): $50–$150
• Aftermarket heated / signal / paint-to-match mirror: $80–$220
• OEM (dealer) standard mirror: $150–$300
• OEM premium or high-tech mirror (with blind-spot, auto-dim, cameras): $250–$600+

In general, aftermarket parts are cheaper and often perfectly adequate for daily driving, while OEM parts cost more but guarantee an exact match in fit, function and finish for your specific model.

Labor Costs for Installation

Labor charges depend on how difficult the mirror is to access, whether interior trim must be removed, and your local hourly rates.

The following list summarizes common labor cost ranges and what usually drives them.

• Simple mirror replacement (no door panel removal): $40–$80 labor
• Standard replacement (remove interior trim/door panel): $70–$150 labor
• Complex replacement (wiring sensors, cameras, calibration): $120–$250+ labor
• Average U.S. shop labor rate: roughly $90–$160 per hour

Most mainstream vehicles fall into the middle of these ranges; complex mirrors or vehicles that require careful disassembly and reassembly of the door tend to push labor costs to the higher end.

Factors That Influence the Final Price

Several specific factors can push the replacement cost of a passenger side mirror significantly higher or lower, even for cars that seem similar on the surface.

1. Type of Mirror and Features

The more technology built into the mirror, the more it costs to replace.

The list below outlines key mirror features that increase price and explains why.

• Power adjustment: Adds motor and wiring; modest parts cost increase.
• Heating/defrost: Integrated heating element raises part cost and wiring complexity.
• Built-in turn signal lights: Adds lighting elements and sometimes special lenses.
• Blind-spot monitoring (BSM) indicators: Requires sensors or integration with vehicle safety systems.
• Auto-dimming: Uses special glass and electronics; significantly more expensive to replace.
• Integrated cameras (360° or lane-view systems): Among the most expensive, and may require calibration.

Each added feature increases the price not only of the part but sometimes also of the installation, especially when sensors or cameras must be configured correctly for safety systems to work.

2. OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts

Whether you choose a genuine manufacturer mirror or an aftermarket version can dramatically affect cost.

The following list highlights the core differences between OEM and aftermarket mirrors and how they relate to price.

• OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): Direct from the vehicle brand or its official suppliers; best fit and finish but highest cost.
• Aftermarket (third-party brands): Cheaper, widely available, often good quality for standard mirrors.
• Certified or CAPA-certified aftermarket: Tested to meet certain quality and fit standards, priced between basic aftermarket and OEM.
• Color-matched vs. black/plastic housing: Pre-painted OEM units cost more than black or primered aftermarket units.

OEM is often recommended for high-end or tech-heavy mirrors, while aftermarket can be a smart, cost-saving choice for simpler setups or older vehicles.

3. Vehicle Make, Model, and Year

Luxury vehicles and newer models often carry a price premium for replacement parts.

The following list describes how your specific vehicle affects overall mirror replacement costs.

• Economy brands (e.g., older compact sedans): Parts and labor tend to be on the low end of price ranges.
• Popular mainstream brands (Toyota, Honda, Ford, etc.): Wide availability of parts; pricing usually in the middle of the spectrum.
• European luxury brands (BMW, Mercedes, Audi, etc.): OEM parts are often much more expensive; labor rates can also be higher.
• New model years with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS): More complex electronics and sensors can raise both parts and labor costs.

If your vehicle is rare, imported, or high-end, it is reasonable to expect pricing toward the upper end of national averages.

4. Where You Get the Work Done

Choice of service provider is another major driver of the final bill.

The following list outlines typical cost patterns across different repair providers and what to expect from each.

• Dealership service departments: Highest rates, OEM parts, strong familiarity with your make.
• Independent repair shops: Generally lower labor rates; more flexible with aftermarket parts.
• Body shops: Ideal when door or paint is damaged; can blend paint for perfect color match.
• Mobile glass/body services: Can come to you; prices vary but can be competitive for straightforward replacements.

For a simple mirror replacement with no paint work, independent shops or reputable mobile services are often the most cost-effective choices.

5. Paint and Color Matching

Some mirrors come in black plastic or primer and must be painted to match your vehicle, especially on higher-trim models.

The list below summarizes typical paint-related costs and situations where they apply.

• Unpainted black plastic mirror: No painting needed; cheapest option, though not always a visual match.
• Mirror housing that requires paint: $75–$200 extra, depending on shop and color complexity.
• Tri-coat or pearl finishes: More expensive to match accurately, often closer to the top of the range.
• Blending into door panel (for perfection): Adds labor and material cost, usually reserved for body-shop repairs.

If appearance is a priority or you are dealing with an insurance repair, paint matching is typically worth the added expense.

DIY vs. Professional Replacement

Many passenger side mirrors can be replaced at home with modest tools, but it’s not always the best option, especially for complex systems.

Estimated DIY Costs

Replacing a mirror yourself removes labor costs but still involves parts and possibly some tools or materials.

The following list outlines common DIY cost components and approximate ranges.

• Aftermarket mirror assembly: $40–$180 depending on features and brand.
• Basic tools (if you don’t already own them): $10–$40 for screwdrivers, trim tools, or a socket set.
• Optional supplies: $5–$20 for clips, sealant, or rust protection spray.
• Time investment: Typically 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on experience and vehicle complexity.

For many common vehicles with simple power or manual mirrors, DIY can bring the total cost well under the typical shop price, as long as you are comfortable removing some interior trim and handling wiring connectors.

When Professional Installation Is Recommended

Some situations call strongly for a professional technician to avoid safety issues or expensive mistakes.

The list below describes key scenarios where professional replacement is usually the smarter and safer option.

• Mirrors with built-in cameras or radar sensors: May require calibration and specific procedures.
• Integrated blind-spot monitoring or lane-keep systems: Incorrect installation can affect safety performance.
• Heavily damaged doors or mounts: Body repair or straightening may be necessary.
• Leased or high-value vehicles: OEM parts and documented professional work may protect you at lease return or resale.

In these cases, the extra labor cost is often justified by correct system function, preserved warranty coverage, and peace of mind.

Insurance Coverage and Out-of-Pocket Costs

Depending on how your mirror was damaged and what coverage you carry, insurance can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket cost—or leave you paying the full bill.

When Insurance Typically Pays

Coverage depends on the type of policy you have and the circumstances of the damage.

The following list summarizes common insurance scenarios and how they typically affect mirror replacement costs.

• Collision coverage: Applies if the mirror was damaged in an accident where your vehicle hit another vehicle or object.
• Comprehensive coverage: Covers non-collision events like vandalism, theft, falling objects, or hitting an animal.
• Hit-and-run or uninsured motorist property damage: May help if someone hits your car and leaves the scene, depending on your policy.
• Deductible impact: If your deductible is $500 and the mirror repair is $300, insurance likely won’t pay anything.

Because passenger mirror damage often costs less than a typical deductible, many drivers choose to pay out of pocket rather than file a claim, unless damage extends beyond the mirror itself.

How to Get an Accurate Estimate

While national averages are useful, your exact cost depends on your car and location. A few simple steps can help you get a precise figure before committing to any repair.

Practical Steps for Getting Real-World Pricing

To avoid surprises, it’s wise to gather more than one quote and clarify what each includes.

The following list outlines practical actions you can take to get a clear, accurate estimate for your specific vehicle and damage.

• Gather vehicle details: Have your VIN, year, make, model, and trim level ready.
• Photograph the damage: Take clear photos of the mirror and surrounding door area for shops to review.
• Call at least two or three shops: Include a dealership and at least one independent repair shop or body shop.
• Ask for a line-item quote: Request separate prices for the part, labor, and any paint or calibration fees.
• Clarify OEM vs. aftermarket options: Ask how using each type of part would change the price.

With written or documented quotes, you can better compare options and decide whether to pursue insurance, choose an aftermarket part, or consider a DIY approach.

Summary

For most drivers, replacing a passenger side mirror costs $150 to $500, with total price driven largely by how advanced the mirror’s features are, whether you opt for OEM or aftermarket parts, and where you have the work done. Basic manual or power mirrors on common vehicles tend to sit at the low end of the range, especially if you’re comfortable doing the work yourself, while high-tech mirrors with heaters, signals, cameras, or blind-spot indicators can push the cost toward $400–$600 or more. Getting a few detailed estimates and weighing DIY against professional installation—alongside any potential insurance coverage—is the best way to determine the most cost-effective and appropriate solution for your particular car.

How much does a side mirror cost to replace?

The average cost of wing mirror replacement is around £130 to £315 for a complete replacement of the whole wing mirror unit. That includes the removal of the damaged wing mirror and fitting of the replacement unit.

Can I legally drive with a broken side mirror?

California: If the vehicle is registered in this state then left side mirror is required and either a center mirror or right side mirror.

Does AutoZone do side mirror replacements?

Yes, you can find side view mirror replacement parts at AutoZone. Match your vehicle’s make and model, checking the mirror features so you get the correct part.

How much is it to replace my passenger side mirror?

Replacing a car side mirror costs around $299 on average. This pricing includes both parts, which can range from $139 to $328, and labor costs, generally adding about $90. However, the mirror replacement cost can escalate depending on several factors.