electrical
Side Mirror Assembly
for 2021 Hyundai Tucson 2.5L I4 · AWD
Difficulty
Easy
Time
48 min
Tools
6
Steps
10
This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the side mirror assembly on a 2016-2024 Hyundai Tucson, including proper electrical connector disconnection and mirror mounting.
Warnings
⚠Disconnect battery negative terminal before starting work to prevent short circuits and airbag deployment
ℹ️Work carefully around painted surfaces to avoid scratches or damage
ℹ️Support the mirror assembly before removing final mounting bolt to prevent it from falling
Tools required
10mm socketEssential
Ratchet with extensionEssential
Trim panel removal toolsEssential
T20 Torx driver
Torque wrenchEssential
Shop towel
Parts
- Side mirror assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification for power/heated/blind spot features
- Door panel clips (as needed) × 3 — Hyundai OEM door panel retainer clips
Preparation
- Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
- Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 3 minutes for electrical systems to discharge
- Lower driver or passenger window fully to access door panel interior
- Identify mirror type (manual, power, heated, blind spot) for correct replacement part
Procedure
- 1Remove door panel trim pieceUsing trim panel removal tools, carefully pry out the triangular trim cover at the front corner of the door where the mirror mounts. This piece is typically secured by 2-3 clips. Work slowly to avoid breaking clips. On some models, there may be a small screw behind a cap that needs removal first.
- 2Disconnect mirror electrical connectorLocate the electrical connector behind the trim panel. Press the release tab and pull the connector straight out from the mirror base. For mirrors with blind spot monitoring, there may be two connectors - disconnect both. Note the routing of the wiring harness for reinstallation.
- 3Support mirror assemblyHold the mirror assembly from the outside with one hand to prevent it from falling once the mounting bolts are removed. Have an assistant support the mirror or use painter's tape to hold it temporarily in position.
- 4Remove mirror mounting boltsUsing a 10mm socket with extension, remove the three mounting bolts securing the mirror base to the door. These bolts are arranged in a triangular pattern. Keep track of any washers or spacers behind the mirror base.
- 5Remove mirror assemblyCarefully pull the mirror assembly away from the door, feeding the electrical connector and wiring through the door opening. Be careful not to scratch the paint on the door frame. Set the old mirror aside on a protected surface.
- 6Install new mirror assemblyFeed the electrical connector and wiring harness through the door opening from outside. Align the mirror base with the three mounting holes on the door frame. Ensure any rubber gasket or seal is properly positioned between the mirror base and door to prevent water intrusion.
- 7Install mounting boltsThread all three mounting bolts by hand first to ensure proper alignment. Once all bolts are started, tighten them in a star pattern using a torque wrench to 27.0 Nm (20.0 lb-ft). Do not overtighten as this can crack the mirror housing or damage the door frame.Torque specModule Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
- 8Connect electrical connectorRoute the wiring harness as noted during removal, ensuring it is not pinched or kinked. Push the electrical connector(s) firmly into the mirror base until you hear or feel a positive click. Gently tug to verify secure connection.
- 9Reinstall trim panelAlign the triangular trim cover with its mounting position and press firmly until all clips engage with a distinct click. Replace any screws if applicable. Ensure the trim sits flush with no gaps.
- 10Reconnect batteryReconnect the negative battery terminal and tighten the terminal bolt to 6.0 Nm (4.0 lb-ft). Do not overtighten as this can damage the battery terminal.Torque specBattery Terminal Bolts6 Nm (4 lb-ft)
Reassembly
- Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
- Verify trim panel is secure with no loose clips or gaps
- Check that mirror housing sits flush against door with proper gasket seal
Verification
- Test mirror adjustment in all directions using power controls (if equipped)
- Verify mirror heating function works (if equipped)
- Check blind spot monitoring indicator illuminates during lane changes (if equipped)
- Visually inspect for proper alignment and secure mounting with no movement or vibration
- Verify no warning lights on instrument cluster related to mirror functions
- Test mirror fold function if equipped with power folding feature