2019-2020 Kia K900 Door Mirror: Matching Cameras, Blind Spot, and Paint Codes

Symptoms of a Failing Door Mirror

Because the K900's door mirror is a hub for multiple technologies, a failure can manifest in several ways. Symptoms can range from simple mechanical issues to complex electronic faults related to the car's safety systems.

1. Power Folding Failure

The power-folding mechanism may stop working, make grinding noises, or fail to fold or unfold completely. This is often due to a worn-out motor or damage to the internal gears, sometimes caused by an impact that forces the mirror out of sync. In some cases, the mirror might be manually pushed out of its normal range, requiring a reset. 🎬 Watch this quick guide on resynchronizing your power-folding mirrors Before assuming the motor is bad, check the mirror control switch inside the car to ensure it hasn't been accidentally set to the manual override position.

2. Surround View Monitor (SVM) Camera Issues

If your K900 is equipped with the 360-degree camera system, a fault in the mirror camera can cause a black screen, flickering video, or a distorted image on the infotainment display when the system is active. This can be due to a failed camera, a loose connection, or damage to the camera lens. Kia recommends seeing an authorized dealer if the camera image is not normal.

3. Blind-Spot Monitor (BCA/BVM) Malfunctions

A malfunctioning Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM) may cause the camera feed in the instrument cluster to flicker or not appear when the turn signal is activated. Similarly, a failure in the Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA) system can cause the warning light in the mirror glass to stop working or stay on continuously. Often, a "Check Blind-Spot Safety System" message will appear on the dashboard. While this can be caused by a dirty sensor in the rear bumper, a fault in the mirror's warning light circuit can also trigger it.

4. Other Common Failures

• Mirror Glass Adjustment Failure: The small motor that adjusts the mirror glass position can fail, preventing you from aiming the mirror correctly.
• Heated Mirror Inoperative: The heating element embedded in the glass can burn out, leaving you without a defrosting function in cold or wet weather.
• LED Turn Signal Failure: The integrated LED strip can fail, which is a safety concern and may cause a "fast flash" condition on your dashboard indicators.
• Physical Damage: Cracked mirror glass, a broken housing from an impact, or a damaged camera lens are common reasons for replacement.

Buying a Used 2019-2020 K900 Door Mirror

Due to the high cost of a new OEM mirror assembly, a used OEM part is an excellent value. However, the complexity of this part means you must be extremely careful to purchase the correct one. Getting it wrong will result in wasted money and features that don't work.

The Absolute #1 Priority: Feature Verification

Before you buy, you MUST confirm the options on your specific vehicle. Use this checklist:

1. Surround View Monitor (SVM): Does your car have the 360-degree camera system? The easiest way to check is to look under the mirror housing. If you have SVM, you will see a small camera lens. If you don't, the underside will be smooth. This is the most critical check.
2. Blind-Spot Monitor (BSM/BCA): Look at the mirror glass itself. If your car has blind-spot monitoring, you will see a small icon of two cars, which illuminates to warn you of vehicles in your blind spot.
3. Paint Code: Check the paint code on the sticker in your driver's side door jamb. The K900 was offered in several colors, and finding a used mirror that already matches your car's paint will save you the cost and hassle of repainting. One known paint code is SWP (Snow White Pearl).
4. Correct Side: Double-check that you are buying for the correct side (Left/Driver or Right/Passenger).

Physical Inspection Checklist for a Used Mirror

• Connector Pins: Look at the electrical connector. Ensure no pins are bent, broken, or corroded. Water damage here is a major red flag.
• Camera Lens: If equipped, inspect the camera lens for deep scratches, cloudiness, or cracks. A damaged lens will render the SVM useless.
• Housing and Glass: Check for cracks in the main housing and on the mirror glass. While the glass can sometimes be replaced separately, it's best to buy a unit that is fully intact.
• Folding Hinge: Gently check the folding hinge for excessive play or signs of a major impact, which could indicate internal damage to the folding motor.

Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs

As of late 2023, there are no specific recalls or Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) directly targeting the door mirrors on the 2019-2020 Kia K900. However, there are some related items to be aware of:

• General Recalls: The 2019 K900 was subject to a recall for a headlight switch issue (NHTSA ID: SC130) and a wider Kia recall involving the Anti-Lock Brake System module that could pose a fire risk (NHTSA ID: 23V-652000). These do not directly affect the mirror but are important for owners to be aware of.
• Mirror Vibration TSB (Other Models): While not for the K900, Mazda has issued TSBs for mirror glass vibration at highway speeds on other models, which was fixed with improved adhesive. This indicates the type of subtle issue that can occur with mirror assemblies.

Cost & Replacement Information

Replacing the K900 door mirror is a moderately difficult job that is feasible for a DIYer comfortable with removing interior trim panels.

Replacement Steps Overview

The general process involves removing the interior door panel to access the mirror's mounting nuts and electrical connector.

1. Disconnect the vehicle's battery.
2. Carefully pry off the interior trim pieces covering the screws on the door panel.
3. Remove all screws securing the door panel.
4. Use a trim removal tool to release the clips around the perimeter of the door panel and lift it off.
🎬 Watch this video demonstration of the door panel removal process
5. Disconnect the electrical connectors for the window switch, door lock, and mirror.
6. Remove the three nuts that hold the mirror assembly to the door frame.
7. Installation is the reverse of removal.

Cost Comparison

The high-tech nature of this part leads to a significant price difference between new and used options. Aftermarket support is virtually non-existent for such a complex, vehicle-specific part.

Frequently Asked Questions