1990-1995 Acura Integra Door Mirror: Decoding Generations, Body Styles & Power vs. Manual
Avoid buying the wrong part by understanding the critical differences between 2nd and 3rd generation Integra mirrors, including body style and wiring.
- Mirrors for 1990-1993 models are NOT interchangeable with 1994-1995 models due to a generation change.
- 2-door coupe and 4-door sedan mirrors are different and cannot be swapped.
- Verify if your mirror is power or manual before buying; for power mirrors, check the electrical connector.
- Used OEM mirrors generally offer better quality and fit than cheap new aftermarket alternatives which are prone to vibration.
Key Differences: 1990-1993 vs. 1994-1995 Integra Mirrors
The most significant source of confusion when replacing a door mirror on a 1990-1995 Acura Integra is the generation change that occurred in 1994. Mirrors from the 1990-1993 (2nd Generation, or 'DA'/'DB' chassis) are not interchangeable with mirrors from the 1994-1995 (3rd Generation, or 'DC'/'DB' chassis). They have different mounting points, shapes, and electrical connectors.
Warning: A mirror from a 1994 Integra will not physically bolt onto a 1993 Integra, and vice-versa. Always confirm your vehicle's exact year before purchasing.
Further complicating matters, mirrors are also specific to the body style:
- 2-Door Coupe/Hatchback: These models have a unique mirror shape and mounting designed for the coupe's door structure.
- 4-Door Sedan: Sedan mirrors are different and cannot be swapped with coupe mirrors.
Symptoms of a Failing Door Mirror
While a broken mirror is obvious, other failures can be more subtle. Here’s what to look for:
- Cracked or Broken Mirror Glass: The most common issue, often resulting from a minor impact. This compromises visibility and can be a safety hazard.
- Damaged or Cracked Housing: The plastic casing can become brittle with age and sun exposure, leading to cracks or breaking off completely.
- Loose or Wobbly Mirror: If the entire assembly feels loose, it could be due to loose mounting nuts inside the door or a worn-out internal pivot spring. This causes the mirror to vibrate excessively 🎬 Watch: How to fix a loose, vibrating Integra mirror while driving, making it difficult to see.
- Power Adjustment Failure: For power mirrors, a common symptom is the inability to adjust the mirror in one or more directions. This can be caused by a failed motor, a faulty switch, or a break in the wiring.
- Manual Adjustment Failure: On manual mirrors, the interior lever may feel disconnected or fail to move the mirror glass, indicating a broken internal cable or mechanism.
Buying a Used Door Mirror: A Buyer's Checklist
Purchasing a used OEM mirror is often a great value, providing original factory quality and fitment. However, you must verify compatibility and condition carefully.
Step 1: Identify Your Exact Needs
Before you start shopping, confirm the following about your Integra:
- Year: Is it a 1990-1993 or a 1994-1995?
- Body Style: Is it a 2-door or a 4-door?
- Adjustment Type: Do you have power or manual mirrors? For power mirrors, check the number of pins on your electrical connector.
- Side: Do you need the driver (left) or passenger (right) side?
Step 2: Physical Inspection
When inspecting a used mirror, check for:
- Glass Condition: Look for any cracks, chips, or heavy scratches.
- Housing Integrity: Inspect the plastic housing for cracks, especially around the mounting base and edges. Sun-faded plastic is common and can be restored, but deep cracks are a deal-breaker.
- Mounting Points: Ensure the mounting studs are intact and the surrounding plastic isn't cracked or broken.
- Pivot Joint: Gently fold the mirror. It should move with firm resistance but not be seized or overly loose. A floppy pivot spring is a common failure point that causes vibration.
Step 3: Electrical and Mechanical Checks
- For Power Mirrors: Inspect the electrical connector pins. They should be straight and free of corrosion. If possible, ask the seller if the motor was tested before removal.
- For Manual Mirrors: If the control lever is attached, test its function to ensure it moves the mirror glass smoothly.
Pro Tip: Used OEM mirrors are almost always a better choice than cheap, new aftermarket units. Aftermarket mirrors for this era are notorious for using lower-quality glass that vibrates, poor fitment that creates wind noise, and motors that fail quickly.
Replacement Overview
Replacing the door mirror on a 1990-1995 Integra is a straightforward job suitable for a DIYer with basic tools.
- Difficulty: 2 out of 5
- Time: 0.5 - 1.0 hours
- Tools Needed: Phillips screwdriver, flathead screwdriver or trim removal tool, 8mm socket or wrench.
The general process involves:
- Removing the small, triangular plastic trim piece (the 'sail panel') on the inside of the door opposite the mirror. This often just pops off.
- For power mirrors, disconnecting the electrical harness plug.
- Removing the three 8mm nuts that secure the mirror assembly to the door.
- Carefully pulling the old mirror off the door.
- Installation is the reverse of removal. 🎬 See this step-by-step 1994-2001 Integra mirror replacement walkthrough
Note: On some models, you may need to partially remove the door panel to easily access the lowest mounting nut and the electrical connector.
Cost Comparison: New vs. Used vs. Aftermarket
| Part Type | Estimated Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New OEM | $300 - $450+ (if available) | Very difficult to find new for these model years. Prices are for newer models and serve as a reference. |
| New Aftermarket | $25 - $90 | Widely available, but quality, fit, and vibration can be issues. |
| Used OEM | $50 - $150 | Best balance of cost and quality. Prices vary by condition and source. |
| Shop Labor | $70 - $150 | Typically a 0.5 to 1-hour job at most independent shops. |
Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
There are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) issued by the NHTSA for the door mirrors on the 1990-1995 Acura Integra. However, owners on forums frequently report two main issues:
- Power Mirror Motor Failure: The internal motors can burn out over time. A common cause of failure for both mirrors at once is a blown fuse, which may also be shared with other accessories.
- Broken Wires: The wires that pass from the car's body into the door can fatigue and break from repeated opening and closing, leading to inoperative power mirrors. This is a common problem on older vehicles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Will a mirror from a 4-door Integra fit my 2-door coupe?
No. The mirrors for 2-door and 4-door models have different shapes and mounting bases and are not interchangeable.
Can I upgrade my manual mirrors to power mirrors?
Yes, it is possible, but it is not a simple plug-and-play swap. You would need the power mirrors, the driver's side control switch, and the correct wiring harness. This typically involves running new wires through the doors and into the cabin, making it a project for more experienced DIYers.
My power mirror moves in some directions but not others. What's the problem?
This usually points to a problem with the control switch on the driver's door or a partial failure of the motor inside the mirror housing. The switch is easier and cheaper to replace first for diagnosis.
My mirror glass is broken but the housing is fine. Can I just replace the glass?
Yes, replacement mirror glass is available. For these models, it typically adheres to the plastic backing plate inside the housing. This is a very cost-effective repair if the housing and any power functions are still intact.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 76200-SK7-003 76200-SK7-A01 76200-SK7-A02 76200-ST8-A11 76200-ST8-A12 76200-ST8-A21ZD 76250-ST7-A01ZA 76250-ST7-A14 76250-ST7-A24ZC 76250-ST8-A12 76250-ST8-A24ZJ AC1320101
Varies by year, body style, and trim. Key variants include manual remote adjustment and power remote adjustment with a 3-pin factory connector.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Acura Integra:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Key Differences: 1990-1993 vs. 1994-1995 Integra Mirrors
- Symptoms of a Failing Door Mirror
- Buying a Used Door Mirror: A Buyer's Checklist
- Step 1: Identify Your Exact Needs
- Step 2: Physical Inspection
- Step 3: Electrical and Mechanical Checks
- Replacement Overview
- Cost Comparison: New vs. Used vs. Aftermarket
- Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off