How to Reattach a Side View Mirror using Glue

Save $100-400 on Professional Repairs with This 30-Minute Fix

What You Need

• Epoxy adhesive (automotive grade)
• Flathead screwdriver
• Lint-free cloth
• Masking tape
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Heat gun (optional)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Clean the Surface

Remove all broken glass pieces with a flathead screwdriver. Never use bare hands – glass fragments can cause serious cuts. Use a heat gun to soften stubborn adhesive if needed.

Clean both surfaces with isopropyl alcohol to remove old glue, dirt, and oils. Let dry completely.

2. Apply Epoxy

Apply epoxy to the mirror backing one inch from edges to prevent overflow. Mix two-part epoxy thoroughly – incomplete mixing causes weak bonds.

3. Install and Secure

Position mirror in housing and hold firmly for 60 seconds. Don’t press too hard or glass may crack.

Wrap with masking tape immediately to prevent movement. Support for 24 hours while epoxy cures.

Best Products with Real Customer Reviews

Loctite Rearview Mirror Adhesive Kit

4.2/5 stars with 3,400+ reviews. OEM-approved by GM, Ford, and Chrysler. Sets in 15 minutes, permanent bond. Professional-grade formula designed for automotive glass applications.

Customer feedback: “I used these to glue my rearview mirror back on last summer and it has lasted over a year. I live in a very hot very humid area and it worked perfectly”. Users report reliable long-term performance even in extreme climates.

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Gorilla 2-Part Epoxy Clear

4.5/5 stars with 18,000+ reviews. Impact resistant and waterproof. Easy syringe dispenser ensures equal mixing. 5-minute working time allows repositioning while providing exceptional strength.

Customer feedback: “I purchased this to glue down my chrome bumper’s rubber/plastic trim, back to the bumper. It did the job perfectly”. Users successfully repair automotive components with professional results.

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VersaChem Rear View Mirror Adhesive

4.3/5 stars with 1,200+ reviews. Works where others fail. No mixing. Extra strong and fast acting. 3000 psi strength, 60% of full strength in five minutes.

Customer feedback: “Reviews online indicated this was a great value, set fast, with good adhesion. And it’s all true. Highly recommend”. Users appreciate the quick setting time and reliable adhesion.

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Permatex Professional Strength Adhesive

3.1/5 stars with 4,800+ reviews. Mixed results due to application sensitivity. “Finally a high enough strength glue for extreme southern heat and sun. My rearview mirror would fall off constantly in the summer. 2nd summer and my mirror is still holding strong”.

Customer concerns: “Worked for 2 days and mirror fell off windshield. I scraped off all of old material, sanded metal piece”. Success depends heavily on proper surface preparation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Poor surface cleaning – causes most failures
• Incorrect mixing ratios – weakens bond strength
• Insufficient support during cure – allows shifting
• Using in bad weather – affects cure quality

When to Call a Professional

Complete housing replacement requires professional installation for electrical connections and proper mounting. Heated mirrors, turn signals, and power folding involve complex wiring beyond DIY capabilities.

Structural damage to door mounting points exceeds DIY repair scope. Professional technicians have specialized tools and OEM parts for safe, reliable repairs.

Understanding proper brake maintenance is equally important for vehicle safety. Regular brake fluid replacement prevents system corrosion and maintains optimal stopping power, while brake rotor inspection ensures even braking performance.

Cost Breakdown

• DIY repair: Under $20 total cost
• Professional repair: $150-400 depending on vehicle
• Time required: 30 minutes plus 24-hour cure
• Durability: Properly done repairs last years and often outlast original factory adhesive

Safety Notes

Driving with damaged mirrors is illegal in most areas and dangerous. Test repair thoroughly before highway use. Properly executed epoxy repairs meet or exceed original equipment durability.

Regular inspection of repaired areas helps identify issues early. Professional consultation recommended for complex repairs or unsatisfactory results.