How to Paint Side Mirrors?

As the saying goes, "A stitch in time saves nine." It's high time you took care of those annoying scratches on your side mirror. No need to fret, it's not as hard as it appears. This guide on 'How to Paint Side Mirrors' is designed to put you in the driver's seat. 

You'll learn the easy steps to restore the pristine look of your car's mirrors. It's a handy skill to have, saving you time and money on professional repair costs. So, let's dive into it and get those mirrors looking as good as new.

Key Takeaways

• Painting your side mirror can enhance its appearance and boost your car's curb appeal.
• Properly cleaning and preparing the mirror before painting is crucial to ensure a smooth and long-lasting finish.
• Choosing the right paint color and using factory-matched paint can help achieve a seamless blend with your car's existing color.
• Applying thin coats of paint, allowing each layer to dry, and using a clear coat for added longevity and shine are essential steps in the painting process.

Reasons Why Your Side Mirror Needs Painting

While you might think your car's side mirror is just a small detail, it's crucial to repaint it when it shows signs of wear and tear. Doing so not only enhances its appearance but also protects it from further damage.

The benefits of professional mirror painting services can't be overstated. They possess the skill and knowledge to do the job right, ensuring a durable and aesthetically pleasing result. 

However, if you're the DIY type, there are common mistakes to avoid when painting side mirrors. Don't neglect to properly clean and prime the mirror before painting; otherwise, you'll end up with a blotchy, uneven finish.

If painting isn't your forte, don't fret. There are alternative methods for repairing damaged side mirrors. For instance, you can opt for a scratch repair kit, which is a cost-effective and less laborious solution.

Regardless of the method you choose, remember this: a well-maintained side mirror doesn't only boost your car's curb appeal, it also enhances its resale value. So, before you dive into the task, take a moment to gather your painting supplies, which we'll discuss in the next section.

Gathering Your Painting Supplies

Before you start repainting your side mirror, you'll need to gather a few essential supplies to ensure a successful DIY project.

Choosing the right paint color

This is important to maintain your vehicle's aesthetics. 

You'll need:

• A color code from your vehicle manufacturer
• Factory-matched paint

Tips for preventing overspray

Overspray can ruin the finish and make your car look unattractive.

So, you need:

• A piece of cardboard or plastic sheeting
• Masking tape for covering areas not to be painted

How to properly clean the mirror before painting?

A clean surface ensures a smooth paint application. 

Here's what you need:

• Wax and grease remover
• A scuff pad

In addition to these, you'll also need a primer, clear coat, and a plastic side mirror repair kit. The primer helps the paint adhere better to the mirror, and the clear coat gives it a glossy finish. The repair kit usually includes all necessary items for a quick and easy repair. 

With these supplies, you're ready to start the mirror painting process.

Removing the Side Mirror

To get started on painting, you'll first need to carefully remove the side mirror from your car. This is a crucial initial step in the process, just as important as choosing the right paint color or avoiding common painting mistakes. 

The removal process isn't as daunting as it might seem. You'll typically find a few screws or bolts holding the mirror in place. Once you've located these, use the appropriate tool to slowly and carefully unscrew them.

Take care not to rush this process. Yanking or forcing the mirror off could result in unnecessary damage to the mirror or your car. Remember, you're not just removing the side mirror, you're preserving it for a fresh coat of paint.

Once the mirror is removed, it's a good idea to clean it thoroughly. This removes any dirt or grime that could interfere with the new paint adhering properly, a common painting mistake.

Choosing the right paint color is important too. You'll want to match it as closely as possible to your car's existing color for a seamless appearance. With the mirror removed and clean, you're now ready to move onto the next stage: preparing the mirror for painting.

Preparing the Mirror for Painting

Now that you've taken off and cleaned your side mirror, let's get down to preparing it for a fresh coat of paint. It's essential to follow specific steps to ensure a smooth, professional finish.

Sanding Techniques

Here is what you need to know:

• Begin by lightly sanding the surface with fine-grit sandpaper. This process removes the old paint and creates a rough surface for the primer to stick better.
• Wipe off any dust with a damp cloth.

Choosing the Right Primer

Here is what you need to know:

• The next step is to choose a primer that's suitable for your mirror's material. It's best to use an automotive primer for a lasting finish.
• Apply the primer evenly. It's crucial to avoid paint drips, which can ruin the final result.

Avoiding Paint Drips

Here is what you need to know:

• To avoid paint drips, hold the spray can upright and at a consistent distance from the mirror.
• Apply the paint in thin, even layers and allow each layer to dry before applying the next.

Applying the Paint Properly

Once you've successfully applied the primer and avoided any drips, it's time to move on to the actual painting process. Choosing the right paint is crucial here. Make sure you've got factory-matched paint for a seamless blend with the rest of your car.

Start by applying a thin coat of paint, using a piece of cardboard to block any overspray. Allow the paint to dry for about five minutes before applying another coat. Repeat this process until you're satisfied with the coverage. 

Remember, it's better to apply several light coats than one heavy one, as this helps in avoiding paint drips and ensures an even finish.

Now, let's talk about painting techniques. Hold the spray can about 8-10 inches away from the mirror and spray in a sweeping motion. This technique ensures even distribution and minimizes the risk of drips. Once you're done painting, apply a clear coat using the same method. This enhances the longevity and shine of your paint job.

Lastly, allow the mirror to dry fully before using it. And voila! You've successfully painted your side mirror while avoiding common pitfalls.

Final Steps and Drying Time

After you've applied the clear coat to your freshly painted side mirror, it's crucial to let it dry properly. Patience is key here. Rushing the drying process is a common mistake that can lead to unsatisfactory results.

Here are some effective drying techniques, common mistakes, and alternative paint options.

Drying Techniques:

• Natural drying: Leave your mirror in a warm, dry place. This method takes longer but is often the best way to ensure a smooth finish.
• Forced drying: Use a heat gun or hair dryer. This method is faster, but be careful not to overheat the paint as it can cause cracking or bubbling.

Common Mistakes:

• Touching the paint before it's fully dry: This can leave fingerprints or smudges.
• Applying another coat too soon: This can cause the paint to run or peel.

Alternative Paint Options:

• Acrylic paint: It's easy to use and dries quickly.
• Enamel paint: It's more durable but takes longer to dry.

Conclusion

Well, there you have it, folks. You've just resurrected your car's side mirrors from the dead, and all it took was a mere 40 minutes and a little elbow grease. So next time you spot those unsightly scratches, don't panic and rush to the garage. 

Grab your tools, put on your DIY hat, and paint away. Who knew you could be your own car-mirror Picasso? It's not just about saving money, it's about adding your personal touch.