In brief, replacing a side mirror on a Kia Soul typically costs between about $200 and $700 installed, depending on model year, trim, and whether you choose OEM or aftermarket parts. DIY replacement or using salvage parts can lower the price, while advanced features and professional installation can push costs higher.
What drives the price
The total you pay depends on a mix of part quality, features, labor, and finish work. The following factors commonly influence the final bill:
Mirror features and part type
Whether you choose a basic manual mirror, a powered mirror with heating, turn signal, or even a built-in camera system and auto-dimming. Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts are usually more expensive than aftermarket equivalents, especially for higher-end features.
- Basic aftermarket manual mirror (no power): typically the least expensive option.
- Power mirrors with heating and manual fold: mid-range pricing.
- Power mirrors with turn signal, auto-dimming, or camera systems: higher-end pricing, especially with built-in sensors or cameras.
- OEM vs aftermarket: OEM parts tend to cost more but may offer a closer fit and potential warranty advantages.
Color matching and finishing matter too. If the housing needs to be painted to match your Kia Soul, that adds to the cost.
Typical price ranges by scenario
To help you plan, here are common cost scenarios. Prices can vary by region and shop, but these ranges capture typical U.S. market prices as of recent years.
- Aftermarket mirror, installed by you (DIY): part $50–$150; painting $50–$150 (if needed); total $100–$300.
- Aftermarket mirror, professional installation (no advanced features): part $50–$150; labor $60–$150; painting if required $50–$150; total $160–$450.
- OEM mirror with power and basic features, installed by a shop: part $250–$500; labor $80–$180; painting $50–$150; total $380–$830.
- OEM mirror with advanced features (heated, turn signal, camera), installed by a dealer/independent shop: part $400–$700; labor $100–$250; painting $50–$150; total $550–$1,100.
- Salvageyard/used mirror, installed by a shop: part $50–$150; labor $60–$120; painting $0–$100; total $110–$370.
Note: insurance coverage may apply if the replacement is the result of a covered incident. In that case, your deductible and policy specifics determine how much you pay out of pocket.
What to expect during replacement
Expect a straightforward process but with some variation based on features. A basic replacement typically involves removing the interior door panel (to access the mirror mounting), disconnecting the wiring harness, unbolting the old unit, swapping in the new one, reconnecting wiring, and testing the mirror functions. If the new mirror requires painting to match the vehicle color, a separate paint-and-clear-coat step will be scheduled. When cameras or sensors are involved, calibration may be necessary to ensure proper operation.
DIY vs professional installation
Choosing between DIY and professional installation hinges on your comfort with car electrical work and the complexity of the mirror you’re replacing. Simpler, non-powered mirrors are more amenable to a DIY swap, while powered mirrors with heating, turn signals, or cameras typically benefit from professional installation to ensure proper wiring and calibration.
Professionals can also handle color matching and any required calibration for cameras or sensors, reducing the risk of future issues.
Warranty and guarantees
Many aftermarket mirrors come with a limited warranty from the manufacturer or retailer. OEM replacements may carry a warranty through the installer or dealer. If your vehicle is still under the manufacturer’s warranty, or if the mirror issue is tied to a recall, check with Kia or your dealer for coverage details before paying out of pocket.
Summary
The cost to replace a side mirror on a Kia Soul varies widely based on part choice (OEM vs aftermarket), features (power, heated, turn signals, camera), labor rates, and whether painting is required. DIY replacements lower the price substantially, while professional installation or dealer-grade parts push the total higher. Typical installed ranges span from about $200 to $1,100, with most common setups landing in the $300–$850 band. Always obtain a written estimate and confirm whether painting and calibration are included.
Bottom line
If you’re budgeting, plan for $300–$600 for a mid-range, feature-equipped mirror installed by a shop, or around $100–$300 if you source a basic aftermarket part and handle the swap yourself, with added cost for painting if needed. For higher-end features or OEM parts, expect closer to the $500–$1,100 range, depending on your locale and service provider.
Summary: Replacing a Kia Soul side mirror is a common, straightforward repair with costs driven by part type, features, labor, and color matching. Whether you go DIY or hire a professional, knowing the options helps you choose a solution that fits your budget and needs.