A loose or fallen rearview mirror is more than just an inconvenience; it’s a significant safety hazard. The right adhesive is crucial for a secure, permanent bond that can withstand daily vibrations, temperature extremes, and the occasional bump. With so many options on the market, from specialized formulas to versatile super glues, selecting the best one for your vehicle can be a challenge.
This guide simplifies your search by presenting a curated list of the most effective adhesives for mirror installation and repair. We have evaluated products based on their bonding strength, cure time, resistance to environmental factors, and ease of use. Whether you need a professional-grade structural adhesive or a quick-fix solution, you will find a reliable option here to restore your mirror’s security and your peace of mind.
Our Recommended Rear View Mirror Adhesives
- 3M High-Bond Rearview Mirror Adhesive
- Visbella Rearview Mirror Adhesive Repair Kit
- Permatex Rearview Mirror Adhesive
- Ready Rearview Mirror Superior Bond Adhesive
- NOCO GENIUS1 Smart Battery Charger
- Loctite Super Glue Professional Liquid
- J-B Weld Plastic Bonder Body Panel Adhesive
- Loctite Extreme Glue, Strong All Purpose Glue
- J-B Weld KwikWeld Quick Setting Epoxy
- Gorilla Super Glue Gel
3M High-Bond Rearview Mirror Adhesive
As a leader in automotive adhesives, 3M’s High-Bond formula is a top choice for professionals and DIYers alike. This two-part structural acrylic system is engineered specifically for mounting rear view mirrors, creating a bond that rivals factory installations. It is designed to perform reliably under stress, holding up well in high temperatures and humid environments.
The adhesive is resistant to moisture, chemicals, vibration, and impact, ensuring your mirror stays firmly in place through daily driving conditions. Its specialized formulation provides peace of mind, knowing the bond is built to last for the long term. For a repair you can trust, this 3M product sets a high standard.
Visbella Rearview Mirror Adhesive Repair Kit
The Visbella Repair Kit offers a powerful and versatile solution for a detached mirror. It boasts exceptional strength, creating a secure bond between the mirror and windshield that is said to surpass traditional epoxy resins. This makes it a robust option for a critical safety component.
One of its main benefits is its quick repair functionality, allowing for a swift and efficient fix to minimize downtime. Beyond rearview mirrors, this adhesive is versatile enough for bonding various materials like metal, glass, and even ceramics. This kit is an excellent all-in-one solution for a strong, fast, and multi-purpose bond.
Permatex Rearview Mirror Adhesive
Permatex is a trusted name in automotive chemicals, and their Rearview Mirror Adhesive is a classic choice for this specific repair. This kit includes both adhesive and primer, which work together to ensure a strong, lasting bond on the glass surface. The primer prepares the glass for optimal adhesion.
This product is a go-to for many because of its proven track record and reliability. It is formulated to handle the unique challenges of bonding metal to glass in a vehicle’s interior, resisting the shocks and vibrations encountered on the road. For a straightforward, no-fuss solution from a reputable brand, Permatex is a solid pick.
Ready Rearview Mirror Superior Bond Adhesive
The Ready Rearview Mirror Adhesive is formulated for those who need a strong bond quickly. It uses high-quality materials to provide an industrial-strength connection that performs well in extreme temperature conditions, making it suitable for all-season use. The brand emphasizes delivering top-quality, competitive adhesives.
A key advantage of this product is its speed and simplicity. The fast-acting formula, combined with detailed instructions and an install video, is designed to make the process quick and easy. With a full cure time of just 15 minutes, it significantly reduces the waiting period compared to traditional adhesives, getting you back on the road faster.
NOCO GENIUS1 Smart Battery Charger
While not an adhesive, the NOCO GENIUS1 is an essential tool for any car owner. A stable electrical system is important when working on your vehicle, and a maintained battery is part of that. This compact unit is an all-in-one solution, functioning as a battery charger, maintainer, trickle charger, and desulfator.
It is designed for 6-volt and 12-volt lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries, making it versatile for cars, motorcycles, boats, and more. Its precision charging feature includes an integrated thermal sensor that adjusts the charge based on ambient temperature, preventing overcharging and undercharging. Keeping your battery in peak condition ensures it has the power needed for all your vehicle’s electronics.
Loctite Super Glue Professional Liquid
For a quick and strong bond on various materials, Loctite Super Glue Professional is a reliable option. This heavy-duty cyanoacrylate formula works faster and holds stronger on more surfaces than many ordinary adhesives. It sets in just 15-30 seconds, which can be ideal for quick repairs that don’t require clamping.
The bottle is designed for maximum control during application. It features an extra-long, pinpoint nozzle for precise placement, which helps avoid messes. The patented quick-open/lock-closed cap helps prevent spillage and keeps the glue from clogging or drying out prematurely. This makes it a handy adhesive to have in your toolkit for a variety of fixes.
J-B Weld Plastic Bonder Body Panel Adhesive
J-B Weld’s Plastic Bonder is a two-part urethane adhesive system designed for strong, lasting repairs. While it works on a wide range of materials like thermoset plastics, carbon fiber, and coated metals, it can be useful for certain mirror assembly components, especially if the mounting base is plastic.
This product is known for its strength and durability. It has a simple 1:1 mixing ratio, sets in 15 minutes, and can be sanded after 30 minutes. With a high tensile strength of 3770 psi, it creates a hard, permanent bond that is built to withstand stress. For repairs involving plastic parts, this epoxy is a top contender.
Loctite Extreme Glue
Loctite Extreme Glue is a versatile, all-purpose adhesive suitable for a wide array of projects. Its unique, non-foaming formula can be applied to almost any surface—including wood, metal, leather, and plastic—without creating a mess. This makes it a good general-purpose option for various bonding needs.
It is great for making repairs, crafting, building, and even filling gaps. The glue dries clear, providing a clean finish that is less noticeable on finished projects. For those who want a single, reliable adhesive for multiple tasks around the home and garage, Loctite Extreme Glue offers strong performance and ease of use.
J-B Weld KwikWeld Quick Setting Epoxy
When you need a fast-setting, high-strength epoxy, J-B Weld KwikWeld is an excellent choice. This steel-reinforced, two-part system is a quick-setting version of their famous original formula. It is perfect for a variety of DIY repairs on household, automotive, and marine items.
After mixing the two parts at a 1:1 ratio, it sets in just 6 minutes and cures in 4-6 hours. Once cured, it can be tapped, filled, sanded, and drilled. With a tensile strength of 3127 psi and resistance to water, petroleum, chemicals, and acid, it creates a tough, durable bond that holds up under demanding conditions.
Gorilla Super Glue Gel
Gorilla Super Glue Gel is known for its versatility and strong, impact-resistant bond. The gel formula is a significant advantage as it does not run, making it ideal for vertical surfaces like a windshield. It bonds a wide variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and ceramic.
This glue is designed for everyday repairs both indoors and outdoors. It sets quickly and dries clear, creating a less visible bond line. The anti-clog cap helps keep the glue from drying out for repeated use. For a no-drip, easy-to-apply super glue that provides a tough, lasting bond, Gorilla Gel is a popular and effective choice.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Rear View Mirror Adhesive
Choosing the right adhesive for your rear view mirror installation and repair work is not just about sticking something back on; it’s about safety and longevity. I’ve glued my fair share of mirrors back onto windshields, and I’ve learned that not all glues are created equal for this specific job. The wrong choice can lead to a wobbly mirror, a damaged windshield, or the dreaded “plop” as your mirror lands in your lap while driving.
First and foremost, you need an adhesive that is specifically formulated for automotive glass. These products are designed to bond to the unique surface of a windshield and withstand the specific challenges a car interior faces. Think about the temperature extremes—scorching hot summers that soften cheap glue and freezing winters that make it brittle. A high-quality automotive adhesive will have a wide operating temperature range, ensuring your mirror stays put whether you’re in Arizona or Alaska.
The next big consideration is the type of application. You’ll primarily find two kinds: traditional two-part epoxy systems and newer, single-use syringe applicators. The two-part epoxys, where you mix a primer with an adhesive, often provide the strongest, most durable bond. They are fantastic for a permanent fix, but they require careful preparation and can be a bit messy. The syringe-style adhesives, which often contain cyanoacrylates (super glues) or other strong compounds, are incredibly convenient. They usually come with a primer pad and are designed for one-time use, making them a clean and simple option for a quick repair. For most DIYers, I find the syringe kits to be the perfect balance of strength and ease of use.
You also need to think about set time and cure time. Set time is how long you have to position the mirror before the adhesive starts to hold. A longer set time can be helpful if you need to make adjustments. Cure time, however, is how long it takes for the adhesive to reach its full, ultimate strength. Just because it feels stuck after an hour doesn’t mean you should go for a drive on a bumpy road. Always, and I mean always, follow the manufacturer’s recommended cure time before putting any stress on the bond. This patience is the key to a successful rear view mirror installation and repair work.
Finally, consider the bond strength and whether it’s designed to be removable. Most mirror adhesives create a permanent bond, which is what you want. However, some are formulated to be releasable with a specific tool or technique, which can be useful if you think you might need to replace the windshield in the future. For a standard mirror, a permanent bond is the way to go for peace of mind. Look for products that boast high shear and tensile strength to handle the weight of the mirror and the occasional adjustment by hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my rear view mirror fall off in the first place?
This is probably the most common question I get. It usually boils down to two main culprits: temperature and age. The adhesive bonding the mirror button to the windshield undergoes constant stress from temperature changes. The metal base and the glass expand and contract at different rates, which slowly weakens the bond over many years. Eventually, a particularly hot or cold day is the final straw. It can also happen if the mirror gets bumped or adjusted too forcefully.
Can I just use a super glue I have at home?
I strongly advise against using standard household super glue for this job. While it’s incredibly strong for bonding many materials, it doesn’t hold up well on glass, especially under the specific conditions inside a car. It tends to become brittle with temperature fluctuations and can fail unexpectedly. More importantly, some super glues can actually craze or crack the windshield laminate upon curing, leading to a very expensive repair. It’s always best to use an adhesive specifically engineered for automotive glass.
How long do I have to wait to drive my car after re-gluing the mirror?
This is a critical safety question. The answer depends entirely on the specific adhesive you use, so you must read the product instructions. Generally, most syring-style adhesives will have an initial set time of 2-5 minutes, meaning you can let go of the mirror. However, the full cure time can range from 4 to 24 hours. I always recommend being overly cautious. Don’t drive the car for at least 12 hours, and avoid slamming the doors or adjusting the mirror for at least 24 hours to ensure the bond has reached its maximum strength.
The old adhesive left a residue on my windshield. How do I clean it off?
A clean surface is non-negotiable for a strong bond. You need to thoroughly remove all the old gunk. I use a razor blade holder and a fresh, single-edge razor blade. Carefully scrape the glass, holding the blade at about a 45-degree angle. Be very careful not to dig into the glass or scratch the tinted band at the top of the windshield. After scraping, wipe the area clean with isopropyl alcohol or the primer pad that often comes with the adhesive kit. This ensures no oils or residues are left behind.
What’s the difference between the primer that comes in the kit and the adhesive?
The primer is a crucial step that many people are tempted to skip. Don’t! The primer isn’t a glue; it’s a chemical activator. Its job is to prepare the glass surface on a microscopic level, etching it slightly and creating a much more receptive surface for the adhesive to bond to. Using the primer significantly increases the strength and durability of the bond, making your rear view mirror installation and repair work far more likely to be a permanent success.
What if I mess up the installation?
If you catch a mistake within the adhesive’s initial set time (usually a couple of minutes), you can usually twist the mirror base off and start over. You’ll need to clean both the mirror button and the windshield completely again with a razor blade and alcohol before reapplying a fresh batch of adhesive. If the adhesive has already cured, removal becomes much harder and typically requires a special removal tool or a trip to an auto glass professional to avoid damaging the windshield.