I need HELP!!! - Toyota Nation Forum : Toyota Car and Truck Forums

java_jane · 02-08-2006, 09:56 AM

Hi everyone,
I'm in serious need of some advice. I'm a fairly new driver, and i just ripped the rear casing off the passenger side mirror on my dad's 2001 Camry LE. I got a quote from the collision center of a Toyota dealership here in toronto, and it's going to be almost $450.00!!!

Are there any other options? the mechanic said he found a used one, but having it repainted etc. would cost more than a brand new one from Toyota.

HELP!

cheers and tears, Jane

keithy · 02-08-2006, 10:09 AM

welcome to TN. I think another option would be ebay. But make sure that they have the color that would match your car, of course with a reasonable price. Ebay now has been so commercial that sometimes it is hard to find something cheap.

Another option is a junk yard. Keep in mind that since your car has been under the sun and rain and snow etc... the paint would have faded a little. So, no matter how/where you get your parts from, the color will not be the exact match, however will be pretty close. Unless custom painting job is done, it will not be the exact paint tone. Good luck.

p/s- Usually, dealership will cost a lot more than regular mechanics. You may want to call up some local mechanics to compare the prices.

java_jane · 02-08-2006, 10:32 AM

Thanks very much KeithY for your advice.

I've been calling around to local auto wreckers, and one seems to have the part -- but i'm hesitant to get a used mirror since i really have no idea about cars - i don't want to get the wrong thing or have it painted the wrong colour. Do you think i should just suck it up, take my punishment for being careless and pay full pop?

keithy · 02-08-2006, 10:38 AM

well, to me, the dealership is going to charge you more than normal to get the job done. I would not spend the money at a dealership. Having said that, you have to know if your mirror a power mirror or just the regular? Make sure you ask this before you buy. Also, try driving your car to the place and ask the seller if the mirror would fit your car. Better safe than sorry.

keithy · 02-08-2006, 10:59 AM

Ohhh........ forgot to mention. You can also try
www.car-parts.com

that is if you can wait for the parts to be shipped to you.

mickeyd · 02-08-2006, 12:46 PM

If the car is American made with a power mirror, you have to remove the interior door panel to get to the electric connector. The connector on the Jap models are right behind the black triangle trim piece. NAP & JPP mirrors are not interchangable. Know what you have before you buy from anyone.

***Tercel GTS*** · 02-08-2006, 01:43 PM

You should be able to get one from car-part.com already the correct color plus the paint will be aged the same as the car.

Gary_602Z · 02-08-2006, 02:30 PM

You could try the old standby! A few tears and profusely saying "I am sorry" and poor ole dad might relent!

(my kids do it all the time)

Gary