How To Replace Side Mirror Glass on a Ram 1500
Does the side mirror glass of your Ram 1500 need replacing? Mirrors are as crucial to vehicle design as any other component, ensuring convenience for drivers and safety for all passengers. Although it might seem daunting, with a little effort (and the right instructions), you can replace the side mirror glass yourself.
With an easy fix at your fingertips, there’s no reason to compromise on your visibility. Our guide will walk you through the steps involved in removing the damaged glass, preparing the mirror housing, and installing the new piece. By restoring your truck’s side view, you’ll have clear visibility for safer driving. Are you ready to make those mirrors look brand new? Read on for all the tips you need to complete the job.

image from ram.com
Essential Tools and Materials
Before you begin to tackle the replacement of your Ram 1500 mirror glass, it’s important to gather all the required tools and materials. To ensure a smooth process, you’ll need the following items:
- New mirror glass (matching the year and model of your Ram 1500).
- Gloves and protective eyewear.
- Masking tape.
- A trim tool or plastic pry bar.
- A soft cloth and glass cleaner.
- Rubber sealant or other suitable adhesive (if not supplied with your replacement mirror).
- Flathead screwdriver (for some Ram 1500 models).
Having these items on hand will help you avoid disruption and keep the job running smoothly. To ensure a perfect fit, check that your new mirror glass matches the specifications of your specific Ram 1500 model. If your mirrors have heating elements or turn signals, make sure the replacement glass has the right electrical connections. Paying attention to these details will help you avoid delays in the replacement process.
Safety Precautions
As you prepare to replace your mirror glass, it’s important to prioritize safety. Wear gloves to protect your hands from cuts and safety glasses to shield your eyes from flying particles. Choose a well-lit, open space for the task, and park your Ram on level ground with the parking brake engaged.
Handle any broken glass carefully by placing it in a sealed container for disposal. If your truck has heated or power folding mirrors, unplug the battery to prevent electrical problems. To avoid damaging your Ram’s finish, use tape to cover the area surrounding the mirror. If you’re unsure about any step, check your truck’s manual or contact our service department for expert guidance and peace of mind. It’s always better to ask for help than risk damaging your truck or compromising its safety features.
Removing the Old Mirror Glass
Once you take the right approach, removing your truck’s damaged side mirror is straightforward. Follow these steps to take out the old mirror glass:
- Turn the mirror inward: This provides better access and helps prevent accidental bumps.
- Secure the glass: If the mirror glass is cracked or broken, cover the damaged area with masking tape to prevent shards from falling while you work.
- Remove the plastic trim: Look for the plastic trim around the mirror’s edge. Using a trim tool or plastic pry bar, carefully remove the trim without scratching the paint or damaging the housing.
- Disconnect electrical components: For heated mirrors, disconnect the electrical plugs behind the glass. Reach in carefully to avoid damaging any parts.
- Detach the glass: Apply steady pressure to the back of the glass, pushing toward the outer edge of the housing until it detaches from its clips or adhesive.
- Clean the housing: Use a plastic scraper or adhesive remover to clean off any residual glue or debris from the housing, preparing the surface for the replacement mirror.
Be gentle and take your time to avoid damaging the housing or chipping the paint. Keep in mind that Ram 1500 models may differ in their mirror attachment mechanisms. If you encounter any problems, be sure to consult your vehicle’s manual.
Preparing the Housing for the Replacement Mirror Glass
Preparing your new mirror glass for installation is crucial for lasting performance. Start by cleaning the housing (using a soft cloth and glass cleaner) to remove any residual debris or adhesive that could affect the fitting. Check that the replacement mirror is the correct fit for your truck, and look for any adhesive strips or mounting clips already attached.
If the new mirror doesn’t have adhesive, apply a thin, even layer of black rubber sealant around the edge of the housing (be sure to use a high-quality sealant specifically designed for car mirrors). Go easy as you apply the adhesive ā an excess amount can make some sealant visible after the installation. For heated mirrors, check that the electrical connectors remain accessible and adhesive-free.
After applying the sealant, allow it to reach its optimal tackiness. The waiting time, which should be detailed in the product’s instructions, can vary based on temperature and humidity. For mirrors with preattached adhesive strips, wait to remove the protective backing until just before installation, which will ensure maximum adhesion.
Installing the Replacement Mirror Glass
Swapping out the mirror glass on your Ram 1500 calls for careful attention to detail. Follow these steps to guarantee a successful installation:
- Align the new reflective surface with the housing to ensure that heating elements or turn signals fit properly.
- For heated mirrors, connect the wires before fully setting the glass ā this prevents damage to wires or plugs during installation.
- To prevent air pockets from forming, apply gentle, consistent pressure from the center outward.
- For clip-on types, listen for a click to confirm that the mirror is securely locked in place.
- After setting the mirror, briefly hold it in place to prevent movement and allow the adhesive to bond.
- As it takes 24 hours for the adhesive to cure, apply tape to the edges of the mirror to help keep it in position.
- To maintain bonding strength, avoid touching the adhesive surface during installation.
Expert Mirror Replacement Services at Firkins Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
If you’d rather leave the job to the professionals, our expert team at Firkins Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Bradenton, Florida, will be happy to step in. To ensure a perfect fit and optimal performance of your Ram 1500, we’ll complete your mirror replacement using genuine original equipment manufacturer parts. Schedule your service today to get the job done right the first time.
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