Complete Aftermarket Mirrors Buyer's Guide
Your comprehensive resource for choosing the right aftermarket mirrors. Whether you're replacing a damaged mirror or upgrading for better features, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
What Are Aftermarket Mirrors?
Aftermarket mirrors are replacement side mirrors manufactured by companies other than your vehicle's original manufacturer. They range from budget-friendly basic replacements to premium options that match or exceed OEM quality.
Why Choose Aftermarket?
- ✓ Cost Savings: Often 40-70% less than OEM parts
- ✓ Wide Availability: Easy to find for most vehicles
- ✓ Feature Upgrades: Add heated or LED features not in original
- ✓ Competition: Quality brands compete for your business
When to Choose OEM?
- ! Complex Electronics: BSM, 360 cameras, auto-dim
- ! Resale Value: Maintaining factory specs matters
- ! Warranty Concerns: Some dealer warranties require OEM
- ! Perfect Match: Exact color, finish, and fit required
Understanding Source Types
Not all aftermarket mirrors are created equal. Understanding the different source types helps you balance quality, features, and budget.
Source Type Comparison
| Source Type | Price Range | Quality | Warranty | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OEM (Genuine) | $400-1000+ | Excellent | Factory | Exact match, resale value |
| Quality Aftermarket Best Value | $100-400 | Very Good | 1-3 Years | Best value, most buyers |
| Budget Aftermarket | $30-100 | Adequate | 90 Days-1 Year | Tight budget, quick fix |
| Salvage/Used | $20-150 | Variable | 30-90 Days | Older vehicles, rare parts |
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer)
Quality Aftermarket
Budget/Imitation
Salvage/Used
Mirror Features Explained
Modern mirrors come with a variety of features. Here's what each one does, when you need it, and how it affects price.
Common Mirror Features
Heated Mirrors
Electrical heating element clears frost, ice, and condensation for improved visibility.
Power Folding
Electronically folds mirrors inward to prevent damage in tight spaces.
LED Turn Signals
Integrated turn signal indicators improve visibility to other drivers.
Blind Spot Indicator
Warning light that activates when vehicles are in your blind spot.
* Requires vehicle's BSM system to be equipped
Towing Mirrors
Extended or extendable mirrors for better visibility when towing trailers.
Auto-Dimming
Automatically darkens to reduce glare from headlights behind you.
Price Tier Guide
Understanding what you get at each price point helps you make the right investment for your needs and budget.
What Each Price Tier Offers
| Price Tier | Price Range | Typical Features | Example Brands |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | $0-100 | Manual or power, basic glass | Dorman, Fit System, Parts Link |
| Mid-Range Best Value | $100-300 | Heated, power, painted/textured | Kool Vue, TYC, K Source |
| Premium | $300-600 | LED signals, BSM ready, folding | DEPO, Replacement, CAPA |
| OEM | $600+ | All factory features, perfect fit | Ford, GM, Toyota, etc. |
Budget ($0-100)
Entry LevelBasic functional replacements that get the job done. Best for older vehicles, work trucks, or when budget is the primary concern.
What You Get:
- • Manual or basic power adjustment
- • Standard glass (may lack convex)
- • Textured or primed finish
- • 90-day to 1-year warranty
Mid-Range ($100-300)
Best ValueThe sweet spot for most buyers. Quality construction, essential features, and solid warranties at a reasonable price.
What You Get:
- • Power adjustment with memory (often)
- • Heated glass included
- • Painted or chrome options
- • 1-2 year warranty typical
Premium ($300-600)
High QualityNear-OEM quality with full feature sets. Ideal for newer vehicles or when you want the best without paying OEM prices.
What You Get:
- • All power features including folding
- • LED turn signals included
- • BSM indicator compatible
- • 2-3 year warranty, CAPA certified options
OEM ($600+)
Factory OriginalFactory-original parts with guaranteed compatibility. Worth it for complex electronics, warranty requirements, or resale value.
What You Get:
- • Perfect fit and finish guaranteed
- • All factory features work correctly
- • Factory paint match available
- • Full factory warranty coverage
Find Your Perfect Match
Answer a few quick questions to get a personalized recommendation based on your vehicle type, use case, and budget.
What type of vehicle do you have?
Quick Reference Tables
Use these tables for quick decisions based on your specific situation.
Best Value by Category
| Category | Our Pick | Typical Price | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall Value Best Value | Kool Vue Power Heated | $80-120 | 2-year warranty, reliable quality |
| Best Budget | Dorman Manual | $35-50 | Functional, widely available |
| Best for Trucks | DEPO Towing Style | $150-250 | Extended reach, dual glass |
| Best Premium | CAPA-Certified | $250-400 | OEM equivalent, full features |
| Best for Cold Climates | TYC Heated | $90-130 | Quick defrost, reliable heating |
Salvage vs New Comparison
| Factor | Salvage/Used | New Aftermarket | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $20-150 | $50-300 | Salvage wins |
| Warranty | 30-90 days | 1-3 years | New wins |
| Condition | Variable | Perfect | New wins |
| Availability | Limited | Wide | New wins |
| For Older Vehicles Best Value | Often best option | May be unavailable | Salvage wins |
Choose New Aftermarket When...
- • You want a warranty
- • Vehicle is 2015 or newer
- • You need specific features
- • Long-term reliability matters
Choose Salvage When...
- • Vehicle is 10+ years old
- • Part is discontinued
- • Exact color match needed
- • Budget is very tight
Choose OEM When...
- • Vehicle is under warranty
- • Complex electronics (BSM, 360)
- • Planning to sell soon
- • Perfect match required