What Is the Side Mirror Cover Called?

The side mirror cover is most commonly called the mirror cap—also known as the mirror cover or wing mirror cover. It’s the outer shell, often painted to match the car, that snaps onto or integrates with the side-view mirror housing. Terminology varies by region and manufacturer, but “mirror cap” is the standard parts term in many catalogs.

Common Names and What They Mean

Automakers, parts stores, and drivers use a handful of overlapping terms. The list below clarifies what each typically refers to, so you can order the right piece and avoid confusion.

• Mirror cap: The removable outer shell that covers the back of the side-view mirror; frequently painted.
• Mirror cover: Interchangeable with mirror cap; widely used in the aftermarket.
• Wing mirror cover: Common UK/Commonwealth term for the same outer shell.
• Door mirror cover: Another variant referring to the cap on the door-mounted mirror.
• Skull cap: Colloquial term used by some enthusiasts and suppliers for the outer cap.
• Mirror housing: Sometimes used broadly for the whole outer shell; in parts catalogs it can mean the larger body that the cap attaches to.
• Sail panel (mirror base/triangle): The fixed trim piece at the base where the mirror mounts to the door or A‑pillar; not the cap.

When buying parts, “cap/cover” usually means the cosmetic shell, while “housing” may indicate the full external body that holds the mirror motor and features—so double-check descriptions before ordering.

What Part You Might Actually Need

If your mirror’s paint is scuffed but the structure is intact, you likely need only the mirror cap. If the shell is cracked or the mirror is loose, you may need the full housing or even the entire mirror assembly. Modern mirrors often integrate sensors and lighting, which can affect part choice and wiring compatibility.

Key Components Within a Side-View Mirror Assembly

This list outlines the major pieces so you can pinpoint damage and order precisely what’s required.

• Outer cap/cover: The painted or textured cosmetic shell.
• Housing/back shell: The structural body that supports internal components; the cap fits onto this.
• Mirror glass and backing plate: The reflective glass bonded to a plastic carrier that clips to the motor.
• Actuator motor: Enables power adjustment of the mirror glass.
• Power-fold mechanism (if equipped): Folds the mirror in electronically.
• Turn signal/indicator repeater (if equipped): LED module on or within the cap or housing.
• Puddle light or approach light (if equipped): Downward-facing illumination under the mirror.
• Blind-spot monitor/radar or camera (if equipped): Sensors or cameras embedded in the housing or cap area.
• Sail panel/base: The triangular mount/trim at the door or A‑pillar.

Identifying which of these is damaged helps avoid overbuying (cap only) or underbuying (cap won’t fix a broken housing).

How to Identify and Order the Correct Cover

Because finishes, features, and fitment vary by model and year, use a methodical approach to ensure the mirror cap you buy matches your vehicle.

1. Confirm the side: Left-hand (driver) or right-hand (passenger).
2. Check your VIN: Dealers and many online catalogs can pull the exact part number from the VIN.
3. Note features: Turn signal, camera, blind-spot sensor, power-fold, puddle light—these may change cap design.
4. Verify finish: Primed (ready for paint), pre-painted (color-coded), carbon-fiber look, or textured black.
5. Match paint code: If buying pre-painted, use the OEM paint code (often on a door jamb or under the hood).
6. Watch terminology: “Cap/cover” vs. “housing” vs. “assembly.” Order the cap if only the shell is damaged.
7. Check model-year splits: Facelifts and mid-cycle updates can change the cap shape within the same generation.
8. Compare part diagrams: Use the manufacturer’s exploded diagrams to confirm shape and clip locations.

Following these steps reduces returns and ensures that the cap aligns properly and matches your vehicle’s appearance and equipment.

Costs and Replacement Basics

Aftermarket primed mirror caps typically range from about $20–$150 per side; OEM caps often run $60–$250, and factory-painted caps can be $100–$300 or more depending on color and finish. Replacement is usually a DIY-level task on many cars: the glass pops out first to access retaining clips, the old cap unclipped, and the new cap snapped in. However, on some vehicles, the mirror must be partially disassembled or removed from the door, and brittle clips can break—so use plastic trim tools and consider a repair manual or professional help if unsure.

Summary

The side mirror cover is generally called the mirror cap (also mirror cover or wing mirror cover). It’s the cosmetic outer shell of the side-view mirror, often painted to match the car. If only the exterior is scuffed, replacing the cap is typically all that’s needed; for structural damage, you may need the housing or full assembly. Verify features, finish, and part numbers—preferably via VIN—to ensure correct fit and appearance.

Can you replace just the side mirror cover?

It’s the housing that covers the entire assembly (except the glass). Its purpose is to protect the wiring and other components from moisture and debris. If your side mirror cover is broken, you have two different repair options to choose from: replacing just the cover or doing a full replacement.

How much does it cost to replace a side view mirror cover?

How Much Does a Mirror Cover Cost? typically cost between $15 to $130, depending on the vehicle’s make and model.

What is a mirror cap?

A mirror cap is a protective or decorative cover for the outer part of a vehicle’s side mirror. It can be a replacement for a damaged or worn-out original cover or an aftermarket accessory to enhance the vehicle’s appearance according to some online retailers. Mirror caps come in various materials and finishes like ABS plastic, carbon fiber, or chrome. 
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Purpose:

• Protection: Mirror caps shield the side mirror assembly from scratches, dust, weather damage, and minor impacts. 
• Aesthetics: They can be used to match the vehicle’s paint color, add a sporty look with carbon fiber or chrome finishes, or simply replace a damaged cover. 

Types:

• Replacement Caps: These are designed to directly replace damaged or worn-out mirror covers. 
• Aftermarket Caps: These offer various styles and finishes to customize the look of the side mirrors according to a retail website. 

Materials:

• ABS Plastic: A common material known for its durability and resistance to impacts. 
• Carbon Fiber: Offers a sporty and lightweight option with a distinctive appearance. 
• Chrome: Provides a sleek and shiny finish, often used for a more premium look. 

Installation:

• Mirror caps are typically designed for easy installation, often using a clip-on or snap-on mechanism. 
• Some may require screws or adhesive for a more secure fit. 

What are the parts of a side mirror called?

A side mirror, also known as a wing mirror or door mirror, consists of several parts. The main components are the mirror glass, which provides the reflective surface, and the housing, which protects and supports the mirror and can include a turn signal or other features. The housing often has a skullcap or cover and a base or backplate that attaches to the vehicle. Some mirrors also include a blind-spot mirror, a defroster, or an auto-dimming function. 
Here’s a breakdown of the parts:

• Mirror Glass: The reflective surface that allows the driver to see objects behind and to the side of the vehicle. 
• Mirror Housing/Body: The outer casing that protects and supports the mirror glass and other components. 
• Skullcap/Mirror Cover: The part of the housing that covers the back and top of the mirror. 
• Backplate/Mirror Holder: The part of the housing that attaches to the vehicle and holds the mirror assembly. 
• Turn Signal (if equipped): A light integrated into the mirror housing to indicate a turn. 
• Blind Spot Mirror (if equipped): A smaller convex mirror attached to the main mirror to provide a wider field of vision and reduce blind spots. 
• Defroster (if equipped): A heating element to clear ice or condensation from the mirror. 
• Auto-dimming Function (if equipped): A feature that automatically reduces glare from headlights of following vehicles. 
• Base: The part that attaches the mirror assembly to the door. 
• Motor/Actuators: Components that allow for power adjustment of the mirror.