Essential Information
- This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, saving you a trip to the mechanic and potentially a hefty repair bill.
- If the glass has a sticky backing, carefully peel off the protective film and press the glass firmly onto the housing.
- How do I know if I need a new wing mirror glass or the entire housing.
A chipped or cracked wing mirror glass can be a real pain, especially if it’s obstructing your view. But don’t fret! Replacing the glass on your Ford Fiesta wing mirror is a surprisingly simple DIY project. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, saving you a trip to the mechanic and potentially a hefty repair bill.
Understanding the Basics
Before we dive into the replacement process, let’s get acquainted with the anatomy of a Ford Fiesta wing mirror. The mirror itself consists of a few key components:
- The Housing: This is the plastic or metal shell that holds everything together.
- The Mirror Glass: This is the actual reflective surface that you see through.
- The Adjustment Mechanism: This allows you to move the mirror up, down, and side-to-side.
- The Mounting Bracket: This connects the mirror housing to your car’s door.
Tools You’ll Need
To tackle this job, you’ll need a few basic tools:
- Phillips Screwdriver: This is essential for removing the screws that hold the mirror housing in place.
- Torx Screwdriver (Optional): Some Ford Fiesta models may use Torx screws.
- Small Flathead Screwdriver: This is useful for prying off any clips or trim pieces.
- New Wing Mirror Glass: Make sure to get the correct replacement glass for your Ford Fiesta model year.
- Protective Gloves: These will keep your hands clean and protect you from any sharp edges.
Step-by-Step Guide: Replacing the Ford Fiesta Wing Mirror Glass
Now that you have your tools ready, let’s get started:
1. Prepare Your Work Area:
- Park your Ford Fiesta on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Open the door on the side where you’re replacing the wing mirror.
2. Remove the Wing Mirror Housing:
- Locate the screws that hold the wing mirror housing to the door.
- Use your Phillips screwdriver to carefully remove these screws.
- Note: The screws may be hidden behind a small plastic cover.
- Once the screws are removed, gently pull the wing mirror housing away from the door.
3. Detach the Broken Glass:
- Carefully inspect the broken glass for any sharp edges. If necessary, use a small flathead screwdriver to gently pry the broken glass away from the housing. Be careful not to damage the housing.
- Important: Dispose of the broken glass safely to avoid injuries.
4. Install the New Wing Mirror Glass:
- Align the new wing mirror glass with the mounting points on the housing.
- Note: If the glass has a clip-on design, you may need to gently push it into place.
- If the glass has a sticky backing, carefully peel off the protective film and press the glass firmly onto the housing.
5. Reattach the Wing Mirror Housing:
- Carefully align the wing mirror housing back onto the door.
- Replace the screws you removed earlier and tighten them securely.
- Note: Don’t overtighten the screws, as this could damage the housing.
6. Test the Wing Mirror:
- Close the door and test the new wing mirror to ensure it’s properly adjusted and functions correctly.
Troubleshooting Tips
- If the new mirror glass doesn’t fit: Make sure you’ve ordered the correct replacement part for your Ford Fiesta model year.
- If the mirror doesn’t adjust properly: Check that the adjustment mechanism is working correctly. You may need to re-adjust the mirror after installation.
- If the mirror housing is damaged: You may need to replace the entire housing.
Final Thoughts: A DIY Triumph
Congratulations! You’ve successfully replaced the wing mirror glass on your Ford Fiesta. By following these steps, you’ve saved yourself time and money. And now you have a clear view of the road ahead.
Top Questions Asked
1. Can I replace the wing mirror glass without removing the housing?
While it’s possible in some cases, it’s not recommended. Removing the housing provides better access and ensures a secure installation.
2. How do I know if I need a new wing mirror glass or the entire housing?
If only the glass is damaged, you can replace it. But if the housing is cracked or broken, you’ll need to replace the entire unit.
3. What should I do if the new mirror glass doesn‘t fit perfectly?
Double-check that you ordered the correct part. If it’s still not a perfect fit, consult a professional mechanic for assistance.
4. Is it possible to repair a cracked wing mirror glass?
While some minor cracks can be repaired with specialized adhesives, it’s often more practical and cost-effective to replace the glass entirely.
5. Can I use any type of adhesive to secure the new mirror glass?
No, use only a specialized adhesive designed for automotive mirror glass. Using the wrong adhesive can damage the housing or cause the glass to detach.