How Much It Really Costs to Replace the Side Mirror on an Audi Q5

Replacing a side mirror on an Audi Q5 typically costs between $350 and $1,100 per mirror at a dealership or full-service shop, depending on model year, trim, features (like blind-spot monitoring and cameras), and whether you use OEM or aftermarket parts. In some cases—especially on newer, feature‑packed models—the total can exceed $1,300, while a basic heated, power mirror on an older Q5 can sometimes be done for $250–$450 using aftermarket parts at an independent shop.

What Drives the Cost of an Audi Q5 Side Mirror Replacement?

The price of replacing a side mirror on an Audi Q5 varies mainly because the mirror assembly is no longer a simple glass-and-housing unit. Modern Q5s integrate advanced technology such as sensors and cameras, and those components can significantly increase both parts and labor costs.

Typical Price Ranges by Where You Get the Work Done

The cost you’ll pay depends heavily on whether you go to a dealer, an independent European specialist, or choose a DIY route. Below is a breakdown of approximate cost ranges in the U.S. as of late 2024.

• Audi dealership: About $700–$1,300+ per mirror installed, most common range is $800–$1,100 for newer Q5s with advanced features.
• Independent Audi/European specialist: Typically $500–$900 per mirror installed, depending on parts source (OEM vs aftermarket) and options.
• General independent body shop or mechanic: Roughly $400–$800, often using quality aftermarket or OEM-equivalent parts.
• DIY with aftermarket assembly: Parts can range from about $180–$500+ for a full mirror assembly, plus paint if required; you save labor but take on the install risk.

These ranges illustrate that the same broken mirror can cost you very different amounts depending on where you go and which parts you choose, making it important to compare quotes before committing.

Breaking Down the Costs: Parts vs. Labor

Side mirror replacement costs can be divided into two main components: the mirror assembly itself and the labor to remove, install, wire, and sometimes program that assembly. Understanding each part of the bill helps you spot fair quotes—and inflated ones.

Parts: From Basic to High-Tech

The mirror assembly is where most of the money goes, and the price escalates with each added feature. An Audi Q5 side mirror is usually sold as a complete unit that may include the housing, cap, motor, heater, signal indicator, sensors, and sometimes cameras.

Here’s how the parts pricing typically breaks down by feature level and source.

• Basic power, heated mirror (older Q5 models, no sensors):
  

  • OEM (Audi genuine): roughly $280–$500 for the assembly, often unpainted cap.
  • Aftermarket: often $150–$320, depending on brand and quality.

• Heated mirror with integrated turn signal:
  

  • OEM: usually $350–$650.
  • Aftermarket: commonly $200–$400.

• Blind-spot monitoring (side assist) mirror:
  

  • OEM with sensor integration: often $550–$900.
  • Aftermarket or remanufactured: about $350–$600, availability varies by model year.

• 360° camera / surround-view or high-spec S line / SQ5 mirrors:
  

  • OEM: can run $800–$1,200+ for the assembly.
  • Aftermarket: sometimes available for $500–$800, but compatibility and calibration are more sensitive.

• Mirror glass only (if the housing is intact):
  

  • Standard heated glass: about $70–$180 OEM; $30–$100 aftermarket.
  • Auto-dimming or blind-spot symbol glass: about $150–$350 OEM.

The more advanced your Q5’s driver-assist package, the more you can expect to pay for the mirror assembly, with OEM parts often doubling the price of aftermarket alternatives.

Labor: What You’re Paying the Shop to Do

Labor for replacing a side mirror on an Audi Q5 is usually not extreme, but it can increase if the mirror is heavily integrated with the car’s electronics or cameras. Labor time is commonly billed as one to two hours.

Typical labor cost components include the following.

• Standard mirror swap (no cameras, basic sensors):
  

  • Labor time: about 0.8–1.2 hours in most labor guides.
  • Cost: roughly $120–$250 at typical U.S. shop rates (varies by region).

• Mirror with blind-spot monitoring or advanced wiring:
  

  • Labor time: about 1–1.5 hours.
  • Cost: approximately $150–$300.

• Mirror with 360° camera / surround-view (if calibration is needed):
  

  • Labor + possible calibration: about 1.5–2.5 hours.
  • Cost: often $250–$450 or more, especially at a dealer using factory scan tools.

While labor is usually the smaller portion of the bill compared with parts, sophisticated driver-assistance systems and camera calibration can push labor costs much higher than a simple mirror swap.

How Features and Model Year Affect the Price

The exact price for your Audi Q5 mirrors depends heavily on the model year and option packages. Newer generations (especially post-2018) with premium safety technology command higher parts prices and more complex installation.

Older vs. Newer Audi Q5 Generations

As Audi has refreshed and upgraded the Q5, the mirror assemblies have evolved, adding sensors and cameras that drive costs up. Here’s how that typically plays out by age of the vehicle.

• First-generation Q5 (approx. 2009–2017):
  

  • Many models have simpler power and heated mirrors, some with signal indicators.
  • Typical total replacement: about $250–$650, depending on options and whether you use aftermarket parts.

• Second-generation Q5 (approx. 2018–present):
  

  • More frequent inclusion of blind-spot monitoring, auto-dimming, and folding mechanisms.
  • Higher parts cost and, in some trims, additional wiring complexity.
  • Typical total replacement: often $550–$1,200+.

• SQ5 and high-trim Q5 models with driver-assist packages:
  

  • May include cameras and advanced sensors in the housing.
  • Common to see parts alone in the $700–$1,000+ range per side at OEM prices.

The general trend is that newer, more luxurious, or performance-oriented Q5 variants carry more expensive mirrors thanks to integrated technology, making exact quotes heavily dependent on your VIN and options list.

OEM vs. Aftermarket: How Much Can You Save?

Choosing between genuine Audi parts and aftermarket units can change the final bill dramatically, but there are trade-offs in fit, longevity, and compatibility with electronics.

Key cost and value differences between OEM and aftermarket mirror assemblies include the following.

• OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer):
  

  • Best fit and finish; matches original equipment exactly.
  • Fully compatible with Audi’s electronics and driver-assistance systems.
  • Typically protected by parts warranty through Audi or the dealer.
  • Most expensive option, often 30–70% more than aftermarket.

• Aftermarket / OEM-equivalent:
  

  • Significant savings, sometimes cutting parts cost by $150–$400 per mirror.
  • Quality can range from near-OEM to noticeably lower; brand reputation matters.
  • May lack full compatibility with advanced features like auto-dimming, cameras, or blind-spot warnings, or may require extra coding.

• Used or recycled OEM (from a salvage yard):
  

  • Often the cheapest way to get a genuine Audi mirror, especially for older Q5s.
  • Cost can be as low as $100–$300 for the assembly.
  • Color may not match; you may still need painting.
  • No guarantee on remaining life of motors, heaters, or electronics.

For mirrors that incorporate advanced tech, many owners prefer OEM or high-quality used OEM units to avoid issues with warning lights, malfunctioning features, or poor fitment.

Additional Costs: Paint, Calibration, and Hidden Fees

The mirror assembly price and basic labor are only part of the story. Extra steps like painting and electronic calibration can add substantial amounts to the final bill, particularly on newer Audi Q5s.

Painting the Mirror Cap

Many replacement mirror assemblies ship with a raw, primed, or black plastic cap that needs to be painted to match your Q5’s body color. Some aftermarket units come pre-painted, but that’s less common for premium brands.

You may encounter these additional paint-related costs.

• Paint and prep for one mirror cap:
  

  • Body shop or dealer: typically $120–$250, higher for tri-coat or custom colors.
  • Blend into adjacent panels is rarely necessary for a mirror, which helps contain costs.

• Pre-painted aftermarket cap:
  

  • Sometimes available online for $100–$250, depending on color and quality.
  • Can reduce downtime but may not perfectly match aging paint.

Painting is often an overlooked line item, but on a premium SUV like the Q5, a mismatched cap can be noticeable, so owners usually opt to have it professionally finished.

Sensor and Camera Calibration

For Q5s equipped with blind-spot monitoring, lane-change assist, or 360° cameras, side mirrors can house vital sensors or camera modules. In some cases, a replacement triggers the need for calibration using specialized equipment.

These are typical scenarios where extra electronic work affects the price.

• Blind-spot monitoring (side assist):
  

  • Often plug-and-play if wiring is intact and you reuse the original sensor.
  • If a module is replaced or the system detects misalignment, dealer-level diagnostics and possible calibration may be needed.

• 360° / surround-view cameras in the mirror:
  

  • May require software calibration so camera images line up correctly.
  • Calibration costs can add $100–$300 depending on shop and equipment.

• Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS):
  

  • If the mirror replacement interacts with systems like lane-keeping or park assist, some shops insist on a scan and calibration check.
  • Diagnostic scans commonly run $75–$180.

Not every mirror swap demands calibration, but for feature-rich Q5s it’s wise to ask the shop whether they plan to scan or calibrate the system and factor that into the total cost.

Can Insurance Cover a Side Mirror Replacement?

Because side mirrors are often damaged in parking incidents or minor collisions, insurance coverage is a key factor in how much you ultimately pay out of pocket for a replacement on your Audi Q5.

When Insurance Will (and Won’t) Pay

Whether your insurer pays depends mainly on the type of coverage you carry and the circumstances of the damage, not on the fact that it’s a premium vehicle like an Audi.

Key insurance considerations for a Q5 side mirror replacement include the following.

• Collision coverage:
  

  • Applies if the mirror was damaged in an at-fault crash or collision with another vehicle or object (e.g., a post, wall, or parked car).
  • You’ll be responsible for the deductible, which might equal or exceed the mirror cost on older Q5s.

• Comprehensive coverage:
  

  • May cover non-collision events like vandalism, falling debris, or animal strikes.
  • Again, subject to your deductible; if the deductible is $500 and the job costs $650, your savings may be modest.

• Hit-and-run or other driver at fault:
  

  • If another insured driver damages your mirror, their liability coverage should pay for repairs.
  • In a hit-and-run, you might rely on your own collision coverage or uninsured motorist property damage, depending on state and policy.

Because Audi Q5 mirror replacements can cross the $1,000 mark on newer models, it’s often worth filing a claim—so long as you’re mindful of your deductible and potential impact on future premiums.

DIY vs. Professional Replacement

Some owners consider tackling a side mirror replacement themselves to save on labor, but the feasibility depends on your comfort with interior trim removal, wiring connectors, and (for advanced mirrors) coding or calibrations.

What DIY Involves on an Audi Q5

Swapping a mirror on a modern Q5 is more complex than on older, more basic cars. You’ll often need to remove the interior door panel, disconnect harnesses, and carefully handle any electronic modules.

Typical DIY steps and considerations include the following.

• Removing the interior door trim:
  

  • Requires trim tools, screwdrivers, and patience to avoid breaking clips.
  • Some owners follow model-specific video guides or repair manuals.

• Disconnecting and reconnecting wiring:
  

  • Multiple connectors may exist for heating, adjustment motor, signals, sensors, and cameras.
  • Incorrect connections can lead to error messages or non-functioning features.

• Coding or calibrating (on advanced setups):
  

  • In some cases, a used or different-spec mirror may need coding via Audi’s diagnostic system or third-party tools.
  • This step is beyond basic DIY for many owners.

• Painting (if needed):
  

  • Professional paint work is usually recommended for a visible exterior part.
  • DIY paint can save money but risks mismatched color or poor finish.

A confident DIYer with the right tools can save a few hundred dollars, especially on older or simpler Q5 mirrors, but on complex, sensor-laden units many owners decide the risks outweigh the labor savings.

How to Get a Realistic Quote for Your Audi Q5

Because individual Q5 builds vary, the most accurate way to know your cost is to gather a few targeted quotes. Providing the right information up front helps shops give a precise estimate instead of a wide range.

Information to Have Ready

Before calling a dealership or repair shop, compile a short list of details so they can look up the exact mirror for your vehicle and avoid guesswork on pricing.

Useful details to share when requesting a quote include the following.

• Your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number):
  

  • Allows the parts department to see the exact mirror configuration and options installed from the factory.

• Model year and trim:
  

  • For example: “2021 Audi Q5 Premium Plus with Driver Assistance package” or “2016 Q5 2.0T Premium.”

• Side and features needed:
  

  • Specify left (driver) or right (passenger).
  • Note if you have blind-spot monitoring, auto-dimming, power-folding, or camera systems.

• Damage description:
  

  • Clarify whether the entire housing is broken or if only the glass is cracked.

• Preference for OEM vs. aftermarket:
  

  • Ask for separate quotes if you’re open to either, so you can compare.

With these details, most shops can give a fairly exact estimate for parts, labor, paint, and any potential calibration, helping you avoid surprises when the final bill arrives.

Summary

Replacing a side mirror on an Audi Q5 generally falls in the $350–$1,100 range per side, with outliers above that for high-spec, camera-equipped models and below it for simpler, older vehicles using aftermarket parts. The mirror assembly itself—especially when it includes heating, power-folding, blind-spot sensors, or cameras—is the largest cost driver, while labor typically adds another $120–$300, plus potential paint and calibration charges. Insurance can absorb much of the cost when damage stems from a covered event, although deductibles matter. Owners of feature-rich, late-model Q5s should expect higher-end estimates, whereas those with older or base models can often find more affordable solutions through independent shops, reputable aftermarket parts, or used OEM units.

How much to replace Audi Q5 side mirror?

The average cost for an Audi Q5 Door Mirror Replacement is between $2,053 and $2,099. Labor costs are estimated between $98 and $143 while parts are typically priced around $1,956.

What is the most common problem of the Audi Q5?

Audi Q5 Common Issues

1. Airbag Issues.
2. Excessive Oil Consumption.
3. Leaking Sunroof.
4. Timing Chain Tensioner Failure.
5. Electrical Problems.
6. Infotainment System Glitches.
7. Transmission Issues.
8. Start-Stop System Defects.

Can Safelite replace Audi Q5 windshield?

Yes, Safelite provides professional windshield replacement services for all Audi models, including the A3, A4, Q5, and more. Our technicians are trained in handling Audi’s advanced features, ensuring precise installation and proper recalibration of safety systems.

How much does it cost to fully replace a 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.