It’s not unusual for your rear view mirror to fall off when it’s supposed to be securely glued to your windshield. Don’t put off fixing it. Otherwise, you’d limit your view of your surroundings. The great news is that it’s not overly complicated to fix.
What to Do Once Your Rear View Mirror Falls Off
If your rear view mirror falls off while you’re in the middle of a trip, avoid busy roads as much as possible. Without the mirror, you won’t be able to see what’s behind your vehicle, making it risky to change lanes.
Pick up your fallen rear view mirror only when you’re parked or while you’re idle due to traffic. Trying to find where the mirror is while you’re driving can distract you.
Inspect the mirror for cracks and damage. If the glass is shattered, you’ll have to replace your broken rear view mirror. Also, visually inspect the mirror and the mirror joint to make sure the actual structure isn’t damaged. If it’s still in good condition, you can reattach it.
How to Fix a Rear View Mirror That Fell Off
If you’re an experienced automotive DIYer, you can reattach your rear view mirror yourself. The best way to attach a rear view mirror usually involves these steps:
Gather the Materials Needed for the Fix
Get a rear view mirror adhesive kit from a local auto parts store or order it online if you’re not in a hurry. You’ll also need a window cleaner, an allen wrench, and a razor blade.
Remove the Rear View Mirror’s Metal Tab
The rear view mirror has a metal tab at the back that attaches to the windshield. It’s where the mirror is mounted.
Loosen and remove the tab using an allen wrench. After detaching the tab, remove any adhesive or glue residue using a razor blade or a similar tool.
Remember that rear view mirrors can be structured differently. So if this procedure doesn’t work for you, you might have to search for additional information online or consult a mechanic.
Mark the Outside of the Windshield
Place a piece of tape outside the windshield to mark the rear view mirror’s exact location. It will serve as a guide when you reattach your rearview mirror.
Clean Your Windshield’s Interior Side
Remove old adhesive residue with a razor blade and apply window cleaner afterward. Most adhesive kits come with a small towel that you can use to clean dirt or remove adhesive residue.
Put Glue On the Metal Tab
Apply glue or adhesive to the metal tab. Read and follow the instructions that come with your adhesive kit.
Attach the Metal Tab to the Windshield
After applying adhesive, attach the metal tab to the windshield. Align it to the area where you placed the tape, press it down for a couple of minutes, and put a piece of tape on it.
Again, don’t forget to read the instructions on your adhesive kit. The process might vary depending on the adhesive.
Mount Your Rear View Mirror Again
Once you’re sure that the metal tab is securely glued to the windshield, mount your rear view mirror again. Don’t forget to remove the tape outside the windshield.
Make sure to secure the mirror properly. You can use an allen screw or any similar fastening tool to secure your mirror in place. This will depend on the structure of the actual mirror you’re installing.
How Much Does a Rear View Mirror Replacement Cost?
A rear view mirror will cost you around $20 to $50. If you’re not doing the installation yourself, you’ll also have to consider labor costs.
Some rear view mirrors are more expensive because they have additional features. For example, expect to spend anywhere between $100 and $300 if you’re looking for an auto-dimming rear view mirror replacement.
What Causes a Rear View Mirror to Fall Off?
Rear view mirrors can fall off due to several reasons.
Excessive humidity and heat can weaken the glue joint compound that attaches the rear view mirror to the windshield. Vibrations during driving can further loosen the mirror.
Collisions (even minor ones) can also dislodge your rear view mirror. So make sure to inspect your rear view mirror if you’ve recently been involved in any accidents while on the road.
Is It Illegal to Drive Without a Rear View Mirror?
Mirror laws tend to vary per state. Generally, it’s not illegal to drive without a rear view mirror as long as your side mirrors are in good condition.
Why You Shouldn’t Drive Without a Rear View Mirror
Even if it’s not illegal to drive without a rear view mirror, it doesn’t mean that it’s safe to do so. A rear view mirror is essential for changing lanes safely.
According to the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA), over 18% of vehicle collisions occur while changing lanes. Maintaining your rear view mirror, which is essential in safely changing lights, will help you avoid becoming part of those statistics.
Keep your automotive mirrors well-maintained and clean them from time to time. Remember to make safety your top priority while on the road.
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Any information provided on this Website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace consultation with a professional mechanic. The accuracy and timeliness of the information may change from the time of publication.
