Tesla Side or Rear Mirrors are essential safety elements that allow drivers to see traffic, pedestrians, and objects while on the road. These mirrors not only help with lane changes, but they also help to avoid accidents by removing blind spots.
However, these mirrors might fail with time, and you may need to replace them to ensure your safety and improve the performance of your Tesla. On average, replacing Tesla Side mirrors will cost you between $300 and $800.
Types of Tesla Side Mirrors
Before delving into the cost details of Tesla side mirror replacement, you should also be aware of the types of side mirrors used in Tesla Models.
Tesla offers three types of side mirrors in their models that provide different features and functionality:
| Types | Key Features |
| Tesla Standard Side Mirrors: | Manually adjustable and has no additional features. |
| Tesla Auto-Dimming Side Mirrors: | Automatically adjust the level of brightness Reduce glare from headlights of other vehicles behind you. |
| Tesla Power-Folding Side Mirrors: | Can be folded inwards or outwards with the press of a button. Especially helpful when parking in tight spaces or driving through narrow lanes. Provide better visibility and improve safety. |
5 Signs Indicating the Need for Tesla Side Mirror Replacement:
If you notice any of the following signs, do not ignore them and replace the defective side mirror/s as soon as possible:
- Broken or cracked mirror glass: If the mirror glass is broken or cracked, it may need to be replaced.
- Malfunctioning electronic components: If the electronic components of the side mirror, such as motors and heating elements, are not functioning properly, the side mirror may need to be replaced.
- Damage to mirror housing: If the housing of the side mirror is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
- Missing side mirror: If the side mirror is missing, it will need to be replaced.
- If the side mirror is loose or wobbly, it may need to be replaced.
Tesla Side Mirror Replacement Cost:
The cost of replacing Tesla Side mirrors regardless of your car’s specific year Model starts from $200 and can go up to $800 or $900 depending on the type or quality of your chosen mirror, your preferred service center, and their local labor rate.
If you go for the good quality OEM parts, the cost will be $500+, but if you go for after-market or used options, the replacement may cost you between $200 and $400.
It’s impossible to give you an accurate estimate, but you will be quoted somewhere close to the following estimates based on the types of Tesla mirrors:
| Tesla Side Mirrors | Cost (includes the price of the mirror & the labor charges) |
| Standard Side Mirror: | ($300 – $600) |
| Auto-Dimming Side Mirrors: | ($400 – $700) |
| Power-Folding Side Mirrors: | ($500 -$900) |
On average, you can expect to pay between $100 and $300 for labor, whether you are taking the service from a Tesla-approved center or any independent shop or mobile mechanic.
Read More: Tesla Mirrors Not Unfolding: What You Need to Know?
How Much Does Tesla Charge for Side Mirror Replacement?
Since Tesla hasn’t released any kind of cost estimates regarding the Side Mirror replacement of its EVs, it’s difficult to project accurate estimates of such servicing.
But Reddit users’ reports based on their own experiences with Tesla Service Centers may give you an idea of how much you must spend for your Tesla mirror repair:
Tesla 3 Side Mirror Replacement:
Tesla Service Center may charge $530 up to $670, including installation and Tax, while Tesla Mobile Service may charge you up to $700 for the entire side mirror replacement.
Tesla S Side Mirror Replacement:
Tesla Service Center may give you a quote between $600 and $800, where they will charge $400 for the parts.
Tesla X Side Mirror Replacement:
Based on one Tesla user’s experience, Tesla will most probably charge around $500 or a little more, whereas the mirror assembly costs at least $400.
But another user claimed that the whole mirror assembly for Tesla Model X could be found at about $299 on eBay (installation cost not included).
Tesla Y Side Mirror Replacement:
Tesla may charge $500 to $800 (including parts, labor, and Tax) for replacing the entire mirror of your Tesla Y.
But if you go for aftermarket options and perform the replacement yourself, it may cost you only $200 to $300 max.
Tesla Side Mirror Replacement Guide:
Fortunately, you can save additional expenses by replacing your Tesla Side Mirror yourself, where you will only have to spend money on the parts.
But for performing the DIY heck, make sure you’ve enough technical expertise and are familiar with the internal assembling of Tesla cars.
Required Tools:
| A screwdriver, Pliers, A trim removal tool, and A new side mirror compatible with your Tesla model |
Follow the instructions given below and get your Tesla Side Mirrors replaced_
STEP 1 – Start by disconnecting the electrical connections of your existing side mirror. Carefully remove the plastic cover inside of your car door, revealing the wiring harness and connector. Gently unplug the connector, being cautious not to damage any wires.
STEP 2 – Locate the screws or clips holding the mirror cover in place. Use appropriate tools like a screwdriver or trim removal tool to remove them. Once the cover is loose, carefully detach it from the mirror housing, exposing the mirror itself.
STEP 3 – Now it’s time to remove the screws or bolts securing the old mirror to the housing. Depending on your Tesla model, the number and placement of these fasteners may vary. Take note of their positions to ensure proper reinstallation later.
STEP 4 – With the old mirror removed, it’s time to install the new one. Align the new mirror with the housing, making sure it fits snugly. Begin fastening the screws or bolts, following the order and positions you noted earlier. Ensure everything is securely tightened.
Place the mirror cover back onto the housing and secure it using the appropriate screws or clips. Double-check that it is firmly in place, as a loose cover may result in undesirable vibrations while driving.
STEP 5 – Now, reconnect the electrical connections by plugging in the connector to the wiring harness. Make sure it fits securely and verify that all wires are properly aligned.
Before wrapping up, conduct a quick test to ensure the new side mirror is functioning correctly. Adjust the mirror’s position using your car’s controls and verify that all features, such as heating or auto-dimming, are operational.
Related Post: Tesla Screen Replacement Cost: Everything You Need to Know
Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
How many Side Mirrors do Tesla cars come with?
Like most other Electric cars, Tesla cars come with two side mirrors.
Who makes Side Mirrors for Tesla?
There’s no official statement to verify who actually manufactures Side Mirrors for all Tesla Models. But reportedly, third-party manufacturers like Arcoche create side mirrors specifically for Tesla Model 3 and Model Y.
How long does it take to replace Tesla Side Mirrors?
Reportedly, Tesla can replace a passenger side mirror in about 20 to 30 minutes, while a DIY person may take about an hour to replace the side mirror.
Can I drive if the side mirror on my Tesla broke off?
No. You should not because it is not safe to drive without a side mirror on your Tesla. That’s why it is highly recommended to repair or replace them whenever you notice a broken or malfunctioning side mirror on your Tesla.
How to Keep Your Tesla Side Mirror Safe?
Here are 5 tips for your Tesla side mirrors maintenance and care:
- Do not park your Tesla too close to other cars and be extra careful when going backward (reversing).
- Clean them using an automotive glass cleaner without scraping or using abrasive cleaning fluid on the glass or mirrored surfaces.
- If you ever need to fully separate your Tesla mirrors from the car, only use plastic pry tools and Torx screwdrivers.
- It is also advised to take apart, clean, and lubricate the mirrors frequently, and this YouTube video will help you with how to properly take care of Tesla side mirrors.
- You can either put on mirror covers or use a vinyl wrap kit to keep your Side or Rear-view mirrors safe and protected.
