Expert: Octavio Torres - 1/13/2010

Question
Hi Octavio, Someone knocked my driver side mirror off..seems to be broken at the base..otherwise the assembly appears ok. Can you tell me how to figure out the plastic type used and the best adhesive to use for repairs?

Thanks

Gary

Answer
Hi Gary, almost always we get dissapointed when trying to fix plastics with adhesives. This is due to the fact that the problems involved herein are cohesion rather than adhesion related . Therefore my suggestion for you is to try welding instead of glueing. When you say "seems" I suppose the fracture is in a hidden place, may be affecting the retractile function and/or hanging from the base with  the wires if any. To fix this housing you have to take the unit off the door. Almost All mirrors have a spring connecting base and housing
Is this spring loose? not loaded? is your´s electrically controlled? Please let me know this   and I may have an easy and affordable solution for you. Look forward to hearing from you... Thanks
                            
by the way, mirrors are normally made of : ABS, ASA, or nylon polymer (none of these are good for adhesives in your case)