2014-2017 Caprice & SS Side View Mirror: Matching Heated, Non-Heated, and Police Options

Common Symptoms of a Failing Side View Mirror

When a side view mirror begins to fail, the symptoms are usually straightforward. Physical damage is obvious, but electrical and mechanical issues can also occur.

• Power Adjustment Fails: The mirror glass won't move when you use the control switch. You might hear the motor trying to work, or you might hear nothing at all. This can be caused by a failed motor, a broken gear inside the housing, or a faulty switch.
• Heated Glass Inoperative: If your vehicle is equipped with heated mirrors, they may stop clearing frost or condensation. This usually points to a burned-out heating element in the glass or a wiring problem. On most GM vehicles, the heated mirrors are activated by the same button as the rear window defroster.
• Vibrating or Loose Mirror: The entire mirror housing may feel loose, or the glass itself may vibrate excessively while driving. This can be due to loose mounting bolts inside the door or worn-out components in the power adjustment mechanism.
• Flickering or Dead Turn Signal: For models equipped with a turn signal repeater in the mirror housing, the light may flicker or stop working entirely due to a bad LED or a wiring issue.

Known Issues & Vehicle Specifics for 2014-2017 Caprice & SS

The biggest challenge with this part is not a specific failure, but ensuring compatibility. The 2014-2017 Caprice was sold in North America exclusively as a Police Pursuit Vehicle (PPV), while the Chevrolet SS was a high-performance consumer sedan. While they share a platform, their standard equipment differs significantly.

Caprice PPV vs. Chevrolet SS Mirrors

The physical mounting footprint of the mirrors is the same for both the Caprice PPV and the SS. However, the features and wiring are often different.

• Caprice PPV: As a fleet vehicle, most PPVs were equipped with basic, non-heated power mirrors.
• Chevrolet SS: Being a premium model, the SS often came with more features like heated glass, auto-dimming on the driver's side, and memory functions tied to the seat position.

How to Identify Your Mirror Type: RPO Codes

The easiest and most reliable way to determine your vehicle's factory options is by checking the Regular Production Option (RPO) codes. You can find these on the "Service Parts Identification" sticker, which is typically located inside the glove box.

• DP2: This RPO code generally signifies non-heated mirrors.
• DR9: This RPO code generally signifies heated mirrors.

Look for one of these codes on your sticker to confirm whether you need a heated or non-heated replacement.

Buying a Used 2014-2017 Caprice or SS Side View Mirror

A used OEM mirror is often the best value, providing factory fit and quality at a lower price than a new part. However, careful inspection is crucial to ensure you get a good part that is compatible with your car.

Pre-Purchase Checklist:

1. Confirm Vehicle Options: Before you buy, check your RPO codes in the glove box to confirm if you need a heated (DR9) or non-heated (DP2) mirror.
2. Match the Features: Does your mirror have a turn signal? Is it auto-dimming? Make sure the replacement part has the exact same features. The best way to do this is to compare the electrical connectors.
3. Count the Pins: Ask the seller to provide a photo of the electrical connector or to count the pins. The pin count on the replacement mirror's plug must match your original mirror's plug. This is the most definitive way to verify electrical compatibility.
4. Inspect the Housing: Check for cracks, deep scrapes, and broken mounting tabs. The textured black plastic of the main housing can be difficult to repair, so look for a clean example.
5. Check the Glass: Look for cracks, chips, and heavy scratches. If the mirror is auto-dimming, check for any browning or delamination around the edges, which indicates failure.
6. Wiggle the Glass: Gently try to move the mirror glass by hand. It should have some movement, but excessive looseness or a grinding feel can indicate a worn-out actuator motor.

Cost Comparison for a Side View Mirror Assembly

Prices can vary based on features (heated, turn signal, etc.) and condition. The following is an estimated cost breakdown.

Replacement Guide Overview

Replacing the side view mirror is a manageable DIY project for those with basic tools. The process involves removing the interior door panel to access the mirror's mounting hardware and electrical connection.

• Difficulty: 2/5
• Estimated Time: 1 - 1.5 hours
• Tools Needed: Trim removal tool kit, socket set (typically 10mm), screwdriver.

Basic Steps:

1. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
2. Use a trim removal tool to carefully pry off the trim pieces on the interior door panel. This often includes a piece behind the door handle and the master window switch panel.
3. Remove the screws or bolts holding the door panel in place.
4. Lift the door panel up and off the door frame. Disconnect any electrical connectors for the window switch, speakers, or door lights.
5. Peel back the plastic weather barrier to access the mirror's connector and mounting nuts.
6. Disconnect the mirror's wiring harness.
7. While supporting the mirror from the outside, remove the three nuts (usually 10mm) that hold it to the door.
8. Install the new mirror, reconnect the wiring, and reassemble the door panel in the reverse order of removal.

Recalls and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

As of mid-2026, there are no active recalls or TSBs from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) specifically related to the side view mirrors on the 2014-2017 Chevrolet Caprice or SS.

OEM Part Numbers

The following is a list of known OEM part numbers for this vehicle range. Due to the variety of options, it is critical to verify the exact part number and features for your specific vehicle's VIN before ordering.

Known Part Numbers: 1468731, 92084926, 92193905, 92207115, 92214581, 92214924, 92245314, 92260413, 92260414, 92260415, 92260416, 92260424, 92260425, 92273445, 92275468

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)