2013 Honda Civic Side Mirror Replacement – Master The DIY Fix & Drive

Ever backed out of your garage a little too enthusiastically? Or perhaps a rogue shopping cart decided to redecorate your ride? Whatever the culprit, a broken side mirror on your 2013 Honda Civic isn’t just an eyesore; it’s a significant safety hazard. You’re losing crucial visibility, making lane changes and parking a gamble. Driving with a damaged mirror is risky, and in many places, illegal.

But here’s the good news: replacing that mirror doesn’t have to mean an expensive trip to the dealership or a body shop. With a few basic tools and a bit of elbow grease, you can tackle this repair yourself. At FatBoysOffroad, we’re all about empowering you to get hands-on with your vehicle, whether it’s for off-road adventures or everyday maintenance.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know for a successful 2013 Honda Civic side mirror replacement. We’ll cover the tools, the steps, common pitfalls, and even how to keep your new mirror looking great. By the end, you’ll have restored your Civic’s safety and gained some serious DIY cred.

Ready to get your visibility back and save some cash? Let’s dive in!

Why Tackle a DIY 2013 Honda Civic Side Mirror Replacement?

You might be thinking, “Isn’t it easier just to take it to a professional?” While that’s always an option, there are compelling reasons why a DIY approach to your 2013 Honda Civic side mirror replacement makes a lot of sense, especially for the savvy car owner or weekend mechanic.

Cost Savings That Make a Difference

Let’s be real: shop labor rates can add up fast. A new side mirror assembly itself can range from $50 to $200, depending on features like heating or integrated turn signals. Add professional installation, and you could easily be looking at $300-$500 or more. Doing it yourself can cut that cost by more than half, putting those savings back in your pocket for other mods or maybe just a tank of premium fuel.

Empowerment and Skill Building

There’s immense satisfaction in fixing something with your own hands. Each successful DIY project builds your confidence and expands your mechanical knowledge. This particular repair is a great entry point into working on your car’s interior and electrical systems, offering valuable 2013 Honda Civic side mirror replacement tips that extend beyond just mirrors.

Control Over Parts and Process

When you handle the replacement, you decide on the quality of the part. You can opt for an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) mirror for a perfect fit, or a more budget-friendly aftermarket option. You also control the pace and attention to detail, ensuring everything is done to your satisfaction, not rushed to meet a shop’s schedule.

A Sustainable Choice

Repairing rather than replacing an entire vehicle is inherently more sustainable. By replacing just the damaged component, you’re extending the life of your car and reducing waste. When sourcing your new mirror, consider opting for recycled or refurbished parts if available and safe, contributing to a more eco-friendly 2013 Honda Civic side mirror replacement.

Gather Your Gear: Tools & Parts for Your 2013 Honda Civic Side Mirror Replacement

Before you start wrenching, a little preparation goes a long way. Having all your tools and the correct replacement part on hand will make the job smoother and prevent frustrating pauses.

Essential Tools You’ll Need

Most of these are standard garage items, but a few specialized tools will make your life much easier:

Philips Head Screwdriver: For various screws on the door panel.
Flat Head Screwdriver: Useful for prying, but be careful not to mar surfaces.
Plastic Trim Removal Tool Set: Crucial for safely prying off interior trim pieces without scratching or breaking them. This is one of the best 2013 Honda Civic side mirror replacement tips we can offer.
Socket Wrench Set: You’ll likely need a 10mm or 12mm socket for the mirror mounting bolts.
Small Pry Tool or Pick Set: Handy for disconnecting electrical connectors.
Shop Towels or Microfiber Cloths: To keep things clean and protect surfaces.
Work Light or Headlamp: Good lighting is essential for seeing small clips and connectors.
Masking Tape: To temporarily hold trim pieces or mark positions.

Selecting the Right Replacement Mirror

This is where precision matters. Your 2013 Honda Civic could have several mirror configurations. You need to ensure your replacement matches exactly.

Confirm Features: Does your original mirror have power adjustment? Is it heated? Does it have an integrated turn signal indicator? These features are typically plug-and-play, meaning the wiring harness will only connect to a mirror with the correct options.
OEM vs. Aftermarket:
- OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): These are identical to the mirror that came with your Civic. They offer the best fit and finish but are usually the most expensive.
- Aftermarket: These are produced by third-party manufacturers. Quality can vary, but many are excellent and significantly more affordable. Always check reviews and ensure the part is specified for a “2013 Honda Civic.”
Color Matching: Most replacement mirrors come unpainted (black plastic). If your original mirror housing was painted to match your car, you’ll need to either find a pre-painted aftermarket mirror (less common) or have the new mirror professionally painted before installation. Some DIYers opt to paint it themselves with automotive spray paint for a close-enough match.
Where to Buy: Auto parts stores (online and brick-and-mortar), Honda dealerships, and online marketplaces are good sources. Make sure to double-check the part number and compatibility.

Step-by-Step: How to Replace Your 2013 Honda Civic Side Mirror

Now for the main event! This detailed 2013 Honda Civic side mirror replacement guide will walk you through each step. Remember to work patiently and carefully to avoid damaging your car’s interior.

Step 1: Safety First!

Park on a Level Surface: Ensure your Civic is on flat ground and the parking brake is engaged.
Disconnect the Battery (Optional, but Recommended for Power Mirrors): If your Civic has power-adjustable or heated mirrors, it’s a good safety practice to disconnect the negative terminal of your car battery. This prevents any accidental shorts or electrical issues while you’re working with wiring. You’ll need a 10mm wrench for this.

Step 2: Prepare the Door Panel

Remove the Interior Trim Pieces: Your Civic’s door panel has several trim pieces that cover screws and clips.
- Typically, there’s a small cover behind the interior door handle. Carefully pry this off with your plastic trim tool.
- Another trim piece often covers the door pull handle/armrest area. This might also have a screw hidden underneath.
- Look for a small triangular plastic cover on the inside of the door, near where the mirror mounts. This is called the sail panel or mirror cover, and it simply pops off.
Locate and Remove Screws: Once the trim pieces are off, you’ll find screws holding the main door panel in place. These are usually Philips head screws. There might be one inside the door handle recess, one in the armrest, and possibly others along the bottom edge of the panel. Remove them carefully and keep them organized.

Step 3: Detach the Door Panel

Release the Clips: Starting from the bottom edge, use your plastic trim removal tool to gently pry the door panel away from the door frame. You’ll hear clips popping loose. Work your way around the edges, being firm but gentle.
Lift and Disconnect: Once all the clips are free, lift the door panel upwards and off the door frame. Do not pull it completely away yet, as it’s still connected by wiring harnesses.
Disconnect Wiring: Carefully disconnect the electrical connectors for the window switch, door lock switch, and any other components on the back of the door panel. You’ll often need to press a small tab to release the connector.
Remove the Door Cables: The interior door handle and lock mechanism are connected by cables. These usually have a plastic clip that holds them in place and a small ball end that slots into the handle lever. Release the clip and then unhook the cable.
Set the Panel Aside: Once all connections are free, you can completely remove the door panel and set it aside in a safe place, preferably on a soft surface to avoid scratches.

Step 4: Remove the Old Side Mirror

Locate Mirror Mounting Bolts: With the door panel off, you’ll see the three bolts that hold the side mirror to the door frame. These are usually 10mm or 12mm bolts.
Disconnect Mirror Wiring Harness: Trace the wiring harness from the mirror back into the door. There will be an electrical connector (or two) that needs to be disconnected. Use your small pry tool if it’s stubborn.
Unbolt the Mirror: While supporting the mirror from the outside (have a friend help if possible, or use masking tape to secure it temporarily), use your socket wrench to remove the three mounting bolts. Be ready to catch the mirror as the last bolt comes out.
Remove the Old Mirror: Carefully pull the old mirror away from the door, guiding its wiring harness through the opening.

Step 5: Install the New Side Mirror

Feed Wiring Through: Take your new 2013 Honda Civic side mirror and carefully feed its wiring harness through the opening in the door frame.
Position and Bolt On: Line up the mounting studs of the new mirror with the holes in the door frame. Start threading the three mounting bolts by hand to ensure they’re not cross-threaded.
Tighten Bolts: Once all three bolts are started, use your socket wrench to tighten them securely. Don’t overtighten, as this can crack the mirror housing or damage the door frame. A snug fit is sufficient.
Reconnect Mirror Wiring: Plug the new mirror’s electrical connector(s) back into the main vehicle harness inside the door. Ensure it clicks firmly into place.

Step 6: Reassemble the Door Panel

Reconnect Door Cables: Attach the door handle and lock cables back to their respective levers on the door panel.
Reconnect Electrical Connectors: Plug all the electrical connectors (window switch, door lock switch, etc.) back into their corresponding ports on the door panel. Double-check each connection.
Align and Reattach Door Panel: Carefully align the door panel with the door frame, ensuring the top edge slots correctly into the window channel. Once aligned, gently push the panel onto the door frame, starting from the top and working your way down, to snap all the clips back into place. Give it a firm but gentle tap around the edges to ensure all clips are seated.
Reinstall Screws and Trim Pieces: Put all the Philips head screws back into their original locations. Then, snap the trim pieces back into place (door handle cover, armrest cover, sail panel).

Step 7: Test and Final Checks

Reconnect Battery: If you disconnected the battery, reconnect the negative terminal now.
Test Functionality: Turn on your car’s ignition (you don’t need to start the engine). Test the power mirror adjustment in all directions. If your mirror is heated, test that function (though it may take a few minutes to feel heat). Test your power windows and door locks to ensure everything is working correctly.
Clean Up: Wipe down any smudges or fingerprints.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully completed your 2013 Honda Civic side mirror replacement. Enjoy your restored visibility and the satisfaction of a job well done.

Troubleshooting Common Issues During Your 2013 Honda Civic Side Mirror Replacement

Even with the best instructions, DIY projects can sometimes hit a snag. Here are a few common problems you might encounter and how to address them, offering more crucial 2013 Honda Civic side mirror replacement tips.

Mirror Not Adjusting (Power Mirrors)

Check Electrical Connections: The most common culprit is a loose or improperly connected wiring harness for the mirror or the window switch. Disassemble the door panel again (just enough to access the connections) and ensure everything is firmly plugged in.
Blown Fuse: A short during installation could blow a fuse. Consult your Civic’s owner’s manual for the location of the fuse box and the specific fuse for the power mirrors. Replace it if necessary.
Faulty Mirror: While rare with a new part, sometimes a new mirror can be defective. If all connections and fuses are good, you might have received a faulty unit. Contact your supplier for a replacement.

Door Panel Clips Won’t Reattach / Panel Feels Loose

Broken Clips: It’s common for some plastic clips to break during removal. Many auto parts stores sell universal door panel clips. It’s a good idea to have a pack on hand before you start.
Misalignment: Ensure the door panel is perfectly aligned with the door frame, especially the top edge that slots into the window seal. If it’s not seated correctly, the clips won’t line up.

Mirror Glass is Loose or Vibrates

Mounting Bolts: Double-check that the three mounting bolts holding the mirror assembly to the door frame are tightened securely.
Mirror Assembly Defect: If the issue persists, the internal mechanism of the new mirror assembly itself might be faulty.

Window Switch or Door Lock Not Working

Wiring Harnesses: This almost always points to a disconnected or improperly connected wiring harness on the back of the door panel. Carefully recheck every connection.

If you’ve tried these troubleshooting steps and are still experiencing issues, don’t hesitate to consult a professional mechanic. Knowing when to call in the experts is part of being a smart DIYer.

Beyond the Fix: Best Practices & Care for Your New Mirror

Now that your 2013 Honda Civic has its full field of vision back, a little care will ensure your new side mirror lasts. These 2013 Honda Civic side mirror replacement best practices will keep it in top shape.

Regular Cleaning

Keep the mirror glass clean for optimal visibility. Use a standard glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth. For the housing, simply wipe it down with your car wash soap and water, just like the rest of your vehicle. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could scratch the plastic or paint.

Protecting from Impacts

While you can’t prevent every accident, being mindful of your surroundings can help.

Parking: Park further away from other cars in tight lots.
Narrow Spaces: If you frequently navigate very narrow driveways or trails (especially for our off-road enthusiasts!), consider manually folding in your mirrors if your Civic has that feature.
Winter Care: In icy conditions, avoid forcing a frozen power mirror to adjust. Allow your car to warm up first, or gently clear ice with a de-icing spray.

Periodic Checks

Every few months, or during your regular maintenance routine, give your mirror a quick once-over.

Wiggle Test: Gently try to wiggle the mirror assembly. If it feels loose, the mounting bolts inside the door might need a slight tightening.
Functionality Test: Briefly test the power adjustment and heating (if applicable) to ensure everything is still working smoothly.

Sustainable Mirror Care

Thinking long-term means thinking sustainably. If only the mirror glass itself is broken (and not the housing or internal mechanism), you can often replace just the glass, which is an even more eco-friendly 2013 Honda Civic side mirror replacement option and usually much cheaper. Keep the old parts for potential recycling or proper disposal at a designated facility.

By following these simple guidelines, your newly installed side mirror will serve you reliably for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2013 Honda Civic Side Mirror Replacement

What’s the difference between an OEM and aftermarket side mirror?

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) mirrors are made by Honda or a supplier to Honda’s exact specifications, ensuring a perfect fit and finish. Aftermarket mirrors are made by third-party companies. They are often more affordable, but quality and fit can vary. For a 2013 Honda Civic side mirror replacement, many aftermarket options are high-quality and a great value.

Do I need to paint my new side mirror?

Most replacement side mirrors come in a black, unpainted finish. If your original mirror housing was painted to match your car’s body color, you will need to either find a pre-painted aftermarket mirror (less common) or have the new mirror professionally painted. Some DIYers also achieve good results with automotive spray paint.

How long does a 2013 Honda Civic side mirror replacement typically take?

For an experienced DIYer, the process can take as little as 30-60 minutes. For a first-timer, allow 1-2 hours. Taking your time, especially with door panel removal, will prevent damage and ensure a smooth installation.

Can I just replace the mirror glass instead of the entire assembly?

Yes, if only the glass is broken and the mirror housing, motor, and wiring are intact, you can often purchase and replace just the mirror glass. This is usually a simpler and much cheaper repair. However, this guide focuses on replacing the entire assembly, which is necessary if the housing or internal components are damaged.

Is it safe to drive with a broken side mirror?

No, it is generally not safe and often illegal to drive with a broken or missing side mirror. Side mirrors provide crucial blind spot visibility and are essential for safe lane changes, merging, and parking. Always repair or replace a damaged mirror as soon as possible.

Get Back on the Road with Confidence!

There you have it—a comprehensive guide to performing a 2013 Honda Civic side mirror replacement. From gathering your tools to the final functional test, you now possess the knowledge to tackle this repair with confidence.

This isn’t just about fixing a broken part; it’s about understanding your vehicle better, saving money, and gaining the satisfaction of a job well done. At FatBoysOffroad, we believe every car owner, DIY mechanic, and off-road enthusiast benefits from rolling up their sleeves and getting to know their ride.

So, grab your tools, follow these steps, and get your Civic back to 100% visibility. Drive safely, stay smart, and keep those mirrors in check!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.