Options for replacing heated side mirror on Dodge Durango?

August 10, 2006 7:19 AM

AutoFilter: What are my options for replacing my driver's side mirror on a 1999 Dodge Durango?

My mirror is cracked (long long story) and falling off. I went to buy replacement glass for it, but none of those options allow me to keep the heated mirror functionality. I live in TX so it's not that big a deal unless I want to try to sell it. So my question has two parts really: Can I replace my heated mirror glass for less than $30? (I found an entire assembly on eBay for $40, but I didn't want to spend that much. I have obviously thought of junk yards as well. Haven't made it out to take a look.) If that's not possible, what should I do with the heater wires once I cut them to replace the glass? Obviously, it's not a good idea to have clipped wires dangling about bare. Is there some sort of end cap that will terminate the wires? Is electrical tape sufficient?

posted by jxpx777 to Home & Garden (3 answers total)

The first thing I would suggest is to get a Haynes repair book for this model. You shouldn't have to cut any wires to replace the mirror. Then, go down to the Dodge dealer's parts counter and talk to the manager about what you're trying to do. They'll be able to give you a rough idea of what's involved. You may actually have to replace the entire mirror assembly.

As for doing the repair for under $30...I somewhat doubt it.
posted by Thorzdad at 8:50 AM on August 10, 2006

Just so I understand correctly--you'd like to spend less than $30 on this project, and you can get a complete replacement mirror is $40? If I were you (and I was you, having broken the side mirror of a Camry about a year ago), I'd just spend the extra ten bucks.
posted by box at 10:42 AM on August 10, 2006

Response by poster: Yah, I have a Haynes manual, but all it discusses is how to replace the assembly, not the glass.
posted by jxpx777 at 11:21 AM on August 10, 2006