How to Fit a Rear View Mirror

Last Updated: October 25, 2021 References

Your rear view mirror helps you stay safe on the road, so it can be pretty nerve-wracking when it falls off its usual perch. Don’t worry—refitting your mirror is an easy, inexpensive repair. We’ve answered all your frequently asked questions below, so you can hit the road as soon as possible!

Question 1

Question 1 of 5:
What do I do if my rear view mirror falls off?

1
Reglue it to your car. Hold onto the detached mirror, and pick up a rear view mirror adhesive kit so you can complete the repair.^{[1]
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Question 2

Question 2 of 5:
Can I use super glue to attach a rear view mirror?

1
Experts recommend using a rear view mirror adhesive kit. These kits are less than $10, and can be found online or at auto repair shops.^{[2]
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- You can also find these adhesive kits at big-name stores, like Walmart.

Question 3

Question 3 of 5:
How do I prep my windshield?

1
Take off the mounting button from the windshield. Your rear view mirror is held in place with a mounting button, or a special attachment that connects your mirror to your windshield. Then, imply slide or unscrew this button from your rear view mirror arm.^{[3]
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2
Heat up your windshield. Warm up the glass with a hair dryer, so the adhesive will stick better. If the surface is cold and wet, the glue won’t stick properly.^{[4]
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3
Clean and mark the windshield. Scrape away any leftover glue with a razor blade, and polish the surface with a glass cleaner. Take a moment to also clean the inside of a new rear view mirror bracket with glass cleaner, which will attach your mirror to the windshield. Then, mark the outer windshield with tape so you remember where the bracket will go.^{[5]
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- Some cars are made with a special band to represent where this bracket goes.
- Try not to touch the windshield when you clean it, or else you might get the glass dirty.
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Question 4

Question 4 of 5:
How do you attach a rear view mirror?

1
Reinstall the mirror with a mounting button. Wipe down and prime the inner windshield with an activating towelette, which you can find in a rear view mirror kit. Once the activator dries, glue the mounting button to the windshield with a single dot of adhesive.^{[6]
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Research source} Then, let the mounting button dry for at least 15-30 minutes. Once the adhesive dries, slide the rear view mirror on top of the mounting button.^{[7]
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- Double-check the adhesive manufacturer instructions to see how long the glue needs to cure for.

Question 5

Question 5 of 5:
Is it illegal to have things hanging from your rear view mirror?

1
Only if the items block your view of traffic. If the items can dangle without actually blocking the road, then you should be fine.^{[8]
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