2017 Honda Accord Side Mirror Replacement

Ever had that heart-sinking moment when you glance at your side mirror, only to see a spiderweb of cracks or, worse, a gaping hole where it used to be? It’s a common scenario, whether from an errant shopping cart, a tight squeeze in a parking garage, or an unexpected encounter with a rogue branch on a backroad. For owners of a 2017 Honda Accord, a damaged side mirror isn’t just an eyesore; it’s a significant safety hazard that compromises your visibility and confidence on the road.

But here’s the good news: replacing a 2017 Honda Accord side mirror is a perfectly manageable DIY project for the average weekend warrior or seasoned gearhead. You don’t need a specialized garage or a hefty mechanic’s bill to get your ride back in prime condition. At FatBoysOffroad, we believe in empowering you to tackle these fixes yourself, saving money, learning new skills, and gaining that satisfying sense of accomplishment.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the 2017 Honda Accord side mirror replacement process. We’ll cover everything from gathering the right tools to executing the swap with precision, ensuring your new mirror is installed safely and effectively. Get ready to restore your peripheral vision and hit the road with renewed confidence!

Why Your 2017 Honda Accord Side Mirror Needs Replacement (And Why DIY Rocks!)

A damaged side mirror is more than just a cosmetic flaw. It’s a critical component for safe driving, providing essential visibility for lane changes, parking, and monitoring your surroundings. Ignoring a broken mirror can lead to dangerous blind spots and even legal trouble in some areas.

Safety First: Reduced visibility drastically increases your risk of accidents. A fully functional mirror ensures you can see what’s coming from the sides and rear.
Legal Compliance: Many states have laws requiring two functional side mirrors (or one side and a rearview). Driving with a broken mirror could land you a ticket.
Aesthetics & Resale Value: Let’s be honest, a broken mirror detracts from your car’s appearance. Keeping your Accord in top shape maintains its value and your pride of ownership.
The DIY Advantage: Tackling this project yourself offers immense satisfaction, saves significant money compared to shop labor, and deepens your understanding of your vehicle. It’s also an excellent way to practice sustainable automotive care.

When considering a 2017 Honda Accord side mirror replacement, doing it yourself gives you control over part quality and ensures the job is done right, according to your standards. It’s a prime example of proactive maintenance that keeps your vehicle reliable for the long haul.

Gathering Your Gear: Essential Tools & Parts for Your 2017 Honda Accord Side Mirror Replacement

Before you dive into the repair, proper preparation is key. Having all your tools and the correct replacement part on hand will make the process smooth and efficient, preventing frustrating delays. This section focuses on the practical 2017 Honda Accord side mirror replacement tips for preparation.

The Right Replacement Mirror: OEM vs. Aftermarket

When selecting your new mirror, you generally have two choices:

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): These are identical to the mirror that came with your Accord from the factory. They offer guaranteed fit, finish, and functionality, but often come at a higher price.
Aftermarket: These are manufactured by third-party companies. Quality can vary, but many aftermarket options are excellent, often at a fraction of the cost. Ensure you choose a reputable brand that specifically states compatibility with the 2017 Honda Accord.

Consider the features of your original mirror. Does it have:

Power Adjustment?
Heating Element?
Integrated Turn Signal?
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) Indicator?
Puddle Light?

Your replacement mirror *must* match these features to ensure full functionality and avoid warning lights on your dash. Double-check the part number or VIN compatibility before purchasing.

Tools You’ll Need

This isn’t a job that requires exotic tools, but a few specific items will be invaluable:

Socket Wrench Set: You’ll likely need a 10mm socket for the mirror mounting nuts.
Phillips Head Screwdriver: For various screws holding the door panel.
Flathead Screwdriver: Useful for prying, but be careful not to mar surfaces.
Plastic Trim Removal Tools: Highly recommended! These specialized tools prevent damage to your door panel clips and trim pieces, making the job much cleaner.
Small Pry Tool or Pick Set: For disconnecting electrical connectors.
Shop Towels or Microfiber Cloths: For cleaning and protecting surfaces.
Painter’s Tape: To mark positions or protect paint.
Headlamp or Work Light: To illuminate dark areas inside the door.
Gloves: Protect your hands.
Safety Glasses: Always a good idea when working with tools and prying.

Having a small container or magnetic tray to keep track of screws and clips is also a smart move. There’s nothing worse than finishing a job and having leftover parts!

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Replace Your 2017 Honda Accord Side Mirror Like a Pro

Now for the main event! This detailed 2017 Honda Accord side mirror replacement guide will walk you through each phase, ensuring you execute the swap safely and effectively.

Step 1: Safety First & Initial Preparation

Before touching anything, prioritize safety. This prevents accidental power-on and potential electrical issues.

Park your Accord on a flat, level surface.
Engage the parking brake.
Turn off the ignition and remove the key.
Disconnect the negative terminal of your car battery. This is crucial to prevent electrical shorts, especially if your mirror has power features. Use a 10mm wrench for this.
Gather all your tools and the new mirror, laying them out within easy reach.

Step 2: Removing the Interior Door Panel Trim

The side mirror is mounted from the outside, but its wiring and mounting nuts are accessed from behind the interior door panel. Patience is key here to avoid breaking clips.

Remove the sail panel (interior mirror trim piece): This small triangular piece is located at the top-front corner of the door, where the mirror attaches. Gently pry it off using a plastic trim removal tool. It’s usually held by a few clips. Disconnect any tweeter speaker wiring if present.
Locate and remove screws:
- There’s typically a screw behind the door handle trim piece. Gently pry off the small cover to expose it.
- Another screw might be at the bottom of the door pull handle pocket.
- A screw or two might be along the bottom edge or side of the door panel.
Use your Phillips head screwdriver for these. Keep track of which screw came from where, as they can sometimes differ in length or thread.
Remove the window switch panel: Carefully pry up the window switch panel using your trim tool. Once loose, disconnect the electrical connectors underneath. Some models might have one large connector, others several smaller ones.

Step 3: Detaching the Main Door Panel

With the screws removed, the rest of the door panel is held by plastic clips. This is where trim tools shine.

Start at one of the bottom corners of the door panel. Insert your plastic trim tool into the gap between the door panel and the door frame.
Gently pry outwards to pop the clips free. Work your way around the perimeter of the door panel, applying even pressure. You’ll hear distinct “pops” as the clips release.
Once all the perimeter clips are free, lift the entire door panel upwards and outwards. It hooks over the window sill at the top.
With the door panel loose, you’ll need to disconnect the door handle cable(s) and any remaining electrical connectors (e.g., for the door light). Carefully unclip the cables from the door handle mechanism.
Set the door panel aside in a safe place, ideally on a clean cloth to prevent scratches.

Step 4: Removing the Old Side Mirror

Now you have access to the mirror’s mounting points.

Disconnect the electrical connector: Locate the main wiring harness for the side mirror. It will be plugged into a connector somewhere near the mirror’s base inside the door frame. Gently squeeze the tab and pull to disconnect it.
Remove the mounting nuts: The mirror is typically held by three nuts (usually 10mm) accessible from inside the door frame. Use your socket wrench to carefully loosen and remove these nuts. Be careful not to drop them inside the door!
Carefully remove the old mirror: Once the nuts and electrical connector are detached, the mirror is free. Support it from the outside as you pull it away from the door.

Step 5: Installing the New Side Mirror

Installation is essentially the reverse of removal.

Position the new mirror: Guide the wiring harness of the new mirror through the opening in the door frame. Align the mirror’s studs with the mounting holes.
Secure with nuts: From inside the door, hand-tighten the three mounting nuts onto the studs. Once all are started, use your socket wrench to snug them down. Do not overtighten, as this can crack the mirror housing or strip the studs. Just snug and a quarter turn.
Connect the electrical harness: Plug the new mirror’s electrical connector securely into the car’s wiring harness. Ensure it clicks into place.

Step 6: Test the New Mirror (Crucial Step!)

Before reassembling everything, test the mirror’s functionality.

Reconnect the negative terminal of your car battery.
Turn on the ignition (don’t start the engine yet).
Test all mirror functions:
- Power adjustment (up, down, left, right)
- Heated mirror (if applicable, turn on rear defroster)
- Turn signal (if applicable, activate turn signal)
- Blind Spot Monitor (if applicable, check for warning light activation)
If all functions work correctly, proceed to reassembly. If not, recheck your electrical connections and wiring.
Once confirmed working, disconnect the battery again before proceeding with reassembly.

Step 7: Reinstalling the Door Panel & Trim

Reverse the steps from removal.

Reconnect any remaining electrical connectors to the door panel (e.g., door light).
Reattach the door handle cable(s) to the door handle mechanism. Ensure they operate smoothly.
Align the door panel with the window sill at the top and hook it into place.
Carefully push the door panel back onto the door frame, aligning the clips. Firmly press around the perimeter until all clips snap back into place.
Reinstall the window switch panel and its electrical connectors. Press it firmly into its opening.
Reinstall all screws you removed earlier (door handle, door pull, bottom edge).
Reattach the interior sail panel trim piece, ensuring any tweeter wiring is connected first.

Finally, reconnect the negative battery terminal, and you’re done! Stand back and admire your handiwork.

Troubleshooting Common Issues During Your 2017 Honda Accord Side Mirror Replacement

Even with the best guide, DIY projects can sometimes throw curveballs. Here are some common problems you might encounter during a 2017 Honda Accord side mirror replacement and how to address them.

Mirror Not Working After Installation:
- Check Electrical Connections: The most common culprit. Ensure all connectors are fully seated and securely latched. A loose connection is often the issue.
- Blown Fuse: If the mirror has power features, a short during installation could blow a fuse. Consult your owner’s manual for the location of the mirror/power window fuses and check them.
- Incorrect Part: Double-check that the replacement mirror matches all the features (power, heat, BSM, etc.) of your original mirror. A mismatch will lead to non-functionality.
Door Panel Clips Breaking:
- This is why plastic trim removal tools are essential. If a few clips break, it’s usually not a major issue, as there are many holding the panel.
- Solution: You can often buy replacement clips at an auto parts store or online for a few dollars. It’s wise to have a small bag of assorted clips on hand for such repairs.
Screws or Nuts Dropped Inside the Door:
- Solution: Use a magnetic retriever tool or a telescoping magnet to fish them out. If they’re completely out of reach, you might have to remove the lower door speaker or a plastic plug at the bottom of the door for access. Always try to secure nuts/screws with tape or by hand-starting them carefully.
Mirror Doesn’t Fit Flush:
- Solution: Ensure no wiring is pinched between the mirror base and the door frame. Also, verify that the mounting studs are perfectly aligned with the holes and that the nuts are tightened evenly. Avoid forcing it.

If you’ve checked everything and the mirror still isn’t working, or if you encounter a complex electrical issue, it’s always best to consult a qualified automotive technician. Don’t hesitate to call in the pros if you’re out of your depth.

Post-Replacement Care & Sustainable Practices for Your New Mirror

You’ve successfully completed your 2017 Honda Accord side mirror replacement – great job! Now, let’s talk about keeping that new mirror in top shape and embracing some eco-friendly habits.

Care Guide for Your New Mirror

Regular Cleaning: Use a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to keep the mirror surface clear. Avoid abrasive cleaners or tools that could scratch the glass or housing.
Check Connections: Periodically, especially after heavy rain or extreme weather, quickly check the exterior housing for any looseness. While unlikely, a slight vibration could indicate a loose mounting nut.
Parking Awareness: Be mindful of where you park. Avoid tight spots where your mirror could be clipped by other vehicles or pedestrians. Consider folding your mirrors in manually if you have that feature, especially in crowded areas.
Winter Care: If your mirror is heated, ensure it’s working before winter hits. Avoid scraping ice directly off the mirror glass; use de-icer spray or your heated defroster to melt it.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly 2017 Honda Accord Side Mirror Replacement

At FatBoysOffroad, we’re all about making smart choices for our vehicles and the planet. Here’s how you can make your mirror replacement more sustainable:

Recycle the Old Mirror: Don’t just toss the old mirror in the trash. The glass and plastic components can often be recycled. Check with your local recycling center for specific guidelines on automotive parts.
Consider Used Parts: For non-critical components like side mirrors, sourcing a good condition used OEM mirror from a reputable salvage yard can be an excellent eco-friendly and cost-effective option. This reduces demand for new manufacturing.
Choose Quality Aftermarket: If buying new, opt for high-quality aftermarket parts from manufacturers known for durability. A longer-lasting part means fewer replacements and less waste over time.
Proper Disposal of Waste: Ensure any packaging from your new mirror is recycled according to local guidelines.

Every small effort contributes to a greener approach to automotive maintenance.

2017 Honda Accord Side Mirror Replacement Best Practices & Pro Tips

Beyond the steps, here are some pro tips to make your 2017 Honda Accord side mirror replacement go even smoother and ensure a lasting repair.

Patience is a Virtue: Rushing leads to broken clips, stripped screws, and frustration. Take your time, especially when prying off trim pieces.
Document Your Work: Take photos or even a short video with your phone as you disassemble the door panel. This provides a visual reference for reassembly, especially for wiring and screw locations.
Clean as You Go: While the door panel is off, it’s a great opportunity to clean out any dust or debris from inside the door. You might also inspect window motor wires or speaker connections.
Test Before Final Assembly: We emphasized this in the guide, but it bears repeating. It’s far easier to troubleshoot when the door panel is still off.
Use the Right Tools: While a flathead screwdriver *can* pry clips, a dedicated plastic trim tool set will prevent damage and make the job much easier. Invest in these; they’re useful for many interior automotive tasks.
Don’t Overtighten: Fasteners on plastic components are easily stripped or cracked if overtightened. Snug is enough.
Check for Water Leaks: After reassembly, if you live in a rainy climate, run water over the door with a hose (carefully, not directly into the window seal) to ensure no water is entering the door cavity through the mirror’s mounting point.

Following these best practices will not only lead to a successful mirror replacement but also build your confidence for future DIY projects.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2017 Honda Accord Side Mirror Replacement

What is the average cost of a 2017 Honda Accord side mirror replacement?

The cost varies significantly. A new OEM mirror can range from $150-$300 or more, depending on features (heated, BSM, turn signal). Aftermarket mirrors typically range from $50-$150. If you pay a shop for labor, expect an additional $100-$200.

How long does it take to replace a 2017 Honda Accord side mirror?

For a first-timer, expect 1-2 hours. An experienced DIYer can often complete the job in 30-60 minutes. The biggest time consumer is usually carefully removing and reinstalling the door panel without breaking clips.

Do I need to paint a new side mirror?

It depends. Many aftermarket mirrors come unpainted (primered) and will need to be painted to match your car’s color. Some OEM or higher-end aftermarket mirrors might come pre-painted, but they are often more expensive. Always check the product description.

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

Sometimes, yes. If only the mirror glass is broken and the housing, motor, and other components are intact, you can often buy just the glass replacement. This is usually a simpler and cheaper fix, but requires careful prying to remove the old glass and snap in the new one.

Is it safe to drive with a broken side mirror?

It is generally unsafe and often illegal to drive with a broken or missing side mirror, especially if it significantly impairs your visibility. While you might manage for a short, careful trip to an auto parts store, it’s best to repair it as soon as possible for your safety and to avoid fines.

Get Your Vision Back, The DIY Way!

There you have it, folks! A complete, detailed guide to performing a 2017 Honda Accord side mirror replacement right in your own garage. You’ve learned not just the “how-to,” but also the “why,” the “what to look out for,” and even how to do it with a nod towards sustainability. This isn’t just about fixing a broken part; it’s about gaining confidence, expanding your mechanical skills, and taking charge of your vehicle’s maintenance.

At FatBoysOffroad, we champion the spirit of the DIY mechanic, the curious car owner, and everyone who loves to get their hands dirty. With patience, the right tools, and this guide, you’ve proven that complex repairs are within your reach. So, go ahead, enjoy your restored visibility, and drive with the satisfaction of a job well done.

Stay safe on the road, keep those mirrors clear, and remember: your journey is your adventure!

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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.