Replacing a Mazda CX-5 side mirror costs $150–$450 for parts and takes 20–45 minutes DIY with basic tools. Power mirrors with blind-spot monitoring add complexity and can increase the total cost to $300–$600.
How to Replace Mazda CX-5 Side Mirror: Step-by-Step DIY Guide
The Mazda CX-5 side mirror replacement is straightforward for most models from 2013 to present. It requires no special tools beyond a trim removal tool and a standard socket set.
I’ve swapped dozens of these in my shop, and owners often do it themselves to avoid dealer markups of 200% on labor. Follow these steps precisely to avoid damaging the door panel or wiring.
🛠️ Tools and Materials Needed
- • Torx T20 screwdriver or 10mm socket wrench
- • Plastic trim removal tool (to prevent scratches)
- • New OEM or aftermarket mirror assembly (match your model year)
- • Torque wrench (optional, for 5–7 Nm bolts)
- • Zip ties or electrical tape for harness management
📍 Pre-Replacement Checks
- Verify the fault: Test folding, heating, signals, and blind-spot functions before starting.
- Disconnect the battery: Remove the negative terminal to prevent electrical shorts, especially on power mirrors.
- Prepare the area: Park on a level surface and roll down the window fully for easy access.
Step-by-Step Removal (All CX-5 Models 2013–2024)
- Pry off the interior mirror glass cover: Insert the trim tool behind the triangular sail panel inside the door. Gently pop it out; it is held by clips with no screws on most trims.
- Disconnect wiring harness: Locate the multi-pin connector (3–7 pins depending on features). Press the tab and pull apart carefully, noting any blind-spot module clips.
- Remove the mirror mounting nuts: Use a socket extension to loosen three 10mm nuts through the sail panel opening. Support the mirror from the outside to avoid strain on wires.
- Extract the mirror: Wiggle it out from the outside while pulling from the inside. Tilt the door glass down if needed for extra clearance.
This process works identically across first-gen (2013–2016) and second-gen (2017+) CX-5s. On Signature trims with auto-dimming, use extra care with the harness to prevent pin damage.
Installation Steps
- Align the base: Line up the new mirror base with the door studs from the outside.
- Secure the nuts: Hand-tighten the three nuts inside, then torque to 7 Nm. Reconnect the harness until you hear a click.
- Reassemble: Snap the sail panel back into place. Test all functions before finalizing the assembly.
- Final test: Reconnect the battery and verify operation for folding, heating, signals, and puddle lights.
A common pitfall is overtightening nuts, which can crack the mirror base. Total time is roughly 20 minutes per side for manual mirrors and 45 for heated units.
Mazda CX-5 Side Mirror Replacement Cost Breakdown
Expect to pay $100–$250 for the passenger mirror and $150–$350 for the driver-side mirror. DIY installation can save you between $200 and $400 over professional shop rates.
Dealers often quote $500–$900 including labor due to high diagnostic fees. Independent shops often complete the fix for around $300 total.
| Component | OEM Price | Aftermarket Price | Shop Labor (1hr) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Manual Mirror | $120–$180 | $80–$120 | $150 |
| Power/Heated | $200–$300 | $130–$220 | $200 |
| Blind-Spot Equipped | $350–$450 | $250–$350 | $250 |
| Full DIY Kit | N/A | $100–$200 | $0 |
Prices are based on 2023–2024 data for US models. Turbo Signature trims hit the high end due to integrated cameras and sensors.
Common Reasons Mazda CX-5 Side Mirrors Fail
CX-5 mirrors fail primarily from physical damage or wiring issues. Owners report 40% of failures come from loose connections after car washes, while 30% stem from direct impacts.
Cracked or Shattered Mirror Glass
This is the most frequent issue where rocks or branches hit the glass but the housing survives. Replacement glass costs $40–$80 compared to $200+ for a full unit.
Power Folding or Adjustment Failure
Motors wear out from daily auto-fold use, often resulting in a clicking noise with no movement. Test by jumping 12V to the motor pins; it is often just a $20 motor swap.
Turn Signal or Puddle Light Out
LED bulbs typically burn out after 5–7 years. While dealers swap the entire mirror, you can often access the rear cover to replace bulbs or solder new LEDs for a $10 fix.
Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) Errors
If the BSM light flashes after replacement, the radar sensor in the mirror base may be misaligned. This sometimes requires a FORScan tool or a dealer scan to reset.
Mazda CX-5 Side Mirror Replacement by Model Year
Slight variations exist between generations. The 2013–2016 models use a simpler 3-nut mount, while 2017+ models integrate BSM on higher trims.
2013–2016 First-Gen CX-5
- Manual mirrors: Simple bolt-on with no wiring required.
- Touring/Signature: Single harness; glass pops off with a heat gun for adhesive.
- Tip: Door panel clips are brittle; keep OEM replacements handy.
2017–2021 Second-Gen CX-5
- Auto-fold: Now standard on Grand Touring and higher trims.
- BSM mirrors: These feature an extra yellow connector that must be disconnected separately.
- Maintenance: Lubricate the pivot with dielectric grease during installation.
2022–2024 Updated CX-5
- Turbo models: Camera-integrated units; usually require full OEM parts ($450+).
- Sail panel: Now uses adhesive tape; use 3M strips for a secure fit.
- Hybrid PHEV: Features an extra power harness; test voltage at 13.5V.
How to Replace Just the Mirror Glass
Save $150 by swapping only the glass if the housing is intact. This works in 90% of cases but is not recommended for BSM units as sensors attach to the glass.
- Remove glass: Pop off the unit by prying from the bottom edge with gloved hands.
- Disconnect wires: Unclip any heater wires located underneath the glass.
- Clean and prep: Use Goo Gone to remove old adhesive and apply new double-sided tape.
- Set: Align and press firmly for 60 seconds; let it cure for one hour before driving.
Side Mirror Differences: Driver vs Passenger
Driver-side mirrors cost 20–30% more due to extra controls and BSM radar. While the swap procedure is identical, the driver harness has 7 pins compared to the passenger’s 5.
Driver-Side Specifics
- Integrated controls must be transferred during the swap on some trims.
- Higher failure rates due to key fob auto-fold cycles.
Passenger-Side Specifics
- Simpler wiring allows for a faster 15-minute job.
- Features convex glass only with no flat option.
Troubleshooting After Replacement
If functions fail post-install, check fuses #12 and #32 in the engine bay first. For a noisy fold, you may need to adjust the limit switch inside the housing.
- Mirror won’t fold: Clean connectors with Deoxit spray.
- Dimming fails: Check for Homelink module interference; swap relays if needed.
- Warning lights: Clear codes with an OBD2 scanner (PID: B1127).
FAQ
Can I paint my Mazda CX-5 replacement mirror to match?
Yes, OEM housings are paintable. Scuff with 800-grit, prime, and spray with the Mazda color code (e.g., 26W for Soul Red).
Is an aftermarket Mazda CX-5 mirror as good as OEM?
TYC and Replacement brands match 95% of function for 60% of the cost. Avoid eBay no-names prone to LED failures.
Why does my CX-5 mirror make a grinding noise when folding?
This is usually gear wear from debris. Disassemble the housing, clean it, and add white lithium grease to the gears.
In summary, Mazda CX-5 side mirror replacement empowers owners to bypass inflated dealer quotes with reliable DIY results. Prioritize OEM for BSM trims and test thoroughly to ensure a long life for your vehicle’s electronics.
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