How much does it cost to replace a truck side mirror?
Most truck side-mirror replacements cost between roughly $150 and $500 when a shop handles the job, with higher-end mirrors or added features pushing the price higher. If you DIY, parts can run from about $20 to $200 depending on whether you replace just the glass or the entire assembly.
The cost depends on mirror type, features (power, heating, auto-dimming, turn signals, camera systems), whether you replace just the glass or the whole housing, paint/color matching, and regional labor rates. This article breaks down typical prices, the factors that drive them, and tips for getting accurate quotes.
What affects the cost
Several factors determine the final price you’ll pay for a truck-side mirror replacement. Here’s what to consider:
- Mirror type: manual vs power-operated; heated; auto-dimming; integrated turn signals; camera or blind-spot monitor systems.
- Replacement scope: glass only vs full housing; whether the existing housing is reusable or you must replace the entire unit.
- Vehicle and parts: OEM (dealer) vs aftermarket; color-matched paint and finish requirements; alignment with mounting points specific to your truck.
- Labor and shop location: regional labor rates; dealership vs independent shop vs auto-glass specialist; mobile replacement options.
- Additional services: painting to match, disposal fees, warranty coverage, and calibration for cameras or sensors if present.
Understanding these factors helps you forecast a price range and decide where to shop for parts and labor.
Typical costs by component and feature
Prices vary widely based on whether you replace just the glass or the entire mirror assembly, and on features like heating, power, or cameras. The ranges below are general estimates to help you budget.
Glass replacement only
When the housing is intact, replacing just the glass is the cheapest route.
- Part cost: typically $20–$80 for aftermarket glass designed to fit many trucks.
- Labor (installed by a shop): around $60–$120.
- Total installed (shop): roughly $100–$200.
Conclusion: Glass-only replacement is the most affordable option and often quickest, especially if the frame is undamaged.
Manual mirror housing replacement (non-powered)
Replacing the entire manual mirror housing without electrical features adds a moderate cost.
- Part cost: $50–$150
- Labor: $60–$120
- Total installed: $110–$270
Conclusion: A full housing replacement without power features is still reasonably affordable compared with premium options.
Power-adjustable mirrors (no extra features)
Mirrors with electric adjustment add wiring and switch considerations beyond a manual unit.
- Part cost: $100–$250
- Labor: $60–$150
- Total installed: $160–$400
Conclusion: Power adjustment increases both part and labor costs but remains in a moderate range for many trucks.
Heated mirrors and/or auto-dimming
Heated elements and auto-dimming help in cold or low-light conditions, boosting price.
- Part cost: $180–$350 (heated); add $50–$150 if auto-dimming is included
- Labor: $70–$150
- Total installed: $250–$500
Conclusion: Heating and dimming push costs higher, but are common on mid-to-full-size pickups and newer models.
Mirrors with integrated turn signals or cameras
Integrated lighting or camera systems significantly raise both parts and installation complexity.
- Part cost: $200–$900 (cameras can drive the higher end)
- Labor: $120–$200
- Total installed: $420–$1,100
Conclusion: Advanced features dramatically increase price but may be worth it for visibility and safety on newer or premium trims.
Color matching and paint
Some buyers prefer color-matched housings for a seamless look, which adds a painting step.
- Paint and clear coat: $15–$100 depending on color match and shop rates
- Labor for painting if not included in the mirror price: often bundled with installation
Conclusion: Painting can add a noticeable but manageable upcharge to the overall replacement cost.
DIY vs professional replacement
Deciding between DIY and professional replacement depends on your skill level and the mirror features you need. Here are considerations to weigh:
- DIY savings: Replacing glass or a basic housing yourself can cut parts and labor costs significantly, sometimes by half or more.
- Warranty and compatibility: Professional installation may preserve warranties on parts and ensure proper calibration, especially for cameras or sensors.
- Safety and accuracy: Proper alignment is crucial for visibility; misaligned mirrors can create safety risks.
- Electrical wiring: Power mirrors, heating elements, and cameras require correct wiring and fuse checks; mistakes can cause electrical issues.
Bottom line: If you’re comfortable with basic auto repairs and electronics, DIY glass or simple housing replacements can save money. For features like cameras, sensors, or paint-matched finishes, a pro is usually the safer bet.
Where to shop and how to get quotes
To get an accurate price, compare quotes from multiple sources. Consider these options:
- Dealership service departments, especially for OEM parts and color matching
- Independent auto-glass shops with glass and mirror expertise
- General auto repair shops that handle mirror replacements
- Online retailers offering parts with installation services
- Mobile replacement services that come to your location
Tip: Request itemized quotes that separate parts, labor, painting, and disposal fees, and confirm whether the price covers both mirrors if applicable.
What to expect during installation
When you bring your truck in for replacement, here’s what typically happens:
- Evaluation of the damaged mirror and housing for damage and compatibility
- Confirmation of part choice and color/finish match
- Removal of the old mirror and secure installation of the new unit
- Electrical testing, mirror alignment, and calibration if required (for cameras or sensors)
After installation, test all functions—power, heating, signals, and alignment—while the technician is present, and ask about any calibration steps that may be needed after a road test.
Summary
Replacing a truck side mirror spans a broad price range driven by the mirror’s features and the replacement scope. Basic glass replacements typically total around $100–$200 installed, while full assemblies with power, heating, turn signals, or cameras can run $400–$1,100 or more. DIY options exist, especially for glass-only replacements, but advanced features usually warrant professional installation to ensure proper fit, color matching, and calibration. To get the best value, compare multiple written quotes, consider the total cost of ownership (including potential warranty coverage), and weigh the benefits of premium features against your budget and safety needs.
