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  • Fitting Door Mirrors

Fitting Door Mirrors

posted in Exterior |

Another simple to fit essential modification is the DTM or M3 style door mirrors. Available in a range of colours you can be sure to find the perfect set for your car, you can choose from a carbon look, chrome or primed ready to be sprayed the same colour as your car. If you’re on a budget there are still options available which won’t break the bank balance.

When shopping for door mirrors you have the option to go for a universal fit or model specific. Don’t be fooled into thinking that a universal fit means easy fit, it often means the opposite. All cars are different in the fact that some door mirrors have curved base plates to blend into the curves of the car’s front wings, all universal door mirror base plates are flat which means they may not fit flush or look as good as they should. People tend to go for this option because they can be considerably cheaper then car specific door mirrors.

It’s advised that if you have the money, you are best going for the door mirrors that are made for your car as they will be easier to fit and will look a lot better in the long run.

Fitting Mirrors: Step 1 Inside the car you have to prise off the panel that covers the mirrors mounting bolts. If you have electric mirrors then you will need to disconnect them, make sure that you don’t drop the wire into the door frame. Tape the plug up for later use and to avoid any damage.
Once you have access to the bolts, unscrew them. Make sure your supporting the mirror as the last one is being removed so that it doesn’t fall on the floor, also so the thread remains in good condition for later use. Fitting Mirrors: Step 2
Fitting Mirrors: Step 3 When the last bolt is removed you should be able to separate the mirror from the car’s body in a controlled fashion avoiding any damage. Once you have removed the stock mirrors you can either keep them for spares in case anything should happen to your new mirrors or you could sell them if your budget is running out.
After you have de-mirrored your car, you have to assemble your new mirrors. Screw them to the base plates with the screws provided. This is where you may have trouble if you went for the universal fit mirrors as car specific are tailored for your car and not made from a generic mould. Fitting Mirrors: Step 4
Fitting Mirrors: Step 5 Once you have assembled both mirrors you are ready to install them onto your car. They use the same bolts that originally held the stock mirrors on, so it’s a case of holding the mirror in place and tightening the bolts, making sure they are secure. If you are having trouble, ask someone to hold the mirror while you fix it to the door.
If your mirrors need spraying, you are best doing this before you fit them to the car. Go round them with sandpaper to ensure a smooth finish. Once you are happy spray them the desired colour, wait until completely dry and fit them to the car.
When you are happy with the end result you are advised to apply a layer of mastic to avoid any leaking, especially if you have gone for the universal mirrors as these don’t always fit flush to your car. Refit the glass if you removed it prior to spraying and you’re all done! Fitting Mirrors: Step 6

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