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If you need a replacement mirror for a 2012-2016 Subaru Impreza, getting the right unit matters for safety and convenience. A properly fitted mirror restores sightlines, electrical functions, and any heating or folding features your car originally had, while a poor fit can lead to wind noise, wobble, or loss of power adjustments.This guide covers the top shortlisted mirrors compatible with the 2012-2016 Impreza. We evaluated options that balance correct fitment, electrical compatibility, and durability so you can pick a unit that returns your car to factory-like function. Below we summarize the key considerations and practical guidance before the product list.
Looking for other parts? See all Subaru Impreza parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | Kool-Vue Left Heated Power Mirror for Subaru Impreza (2012–2014) |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | A-Premium Pair Front Power Heated Foldable Side Mirrors for Subaru Impreza/XV Crosstrek (2012–2014) |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | A-Premium Left Driver Side Non-Heated Mirror Glass with Backing Plate |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | A-Premium Right Front Passenger Side Non-Heated Mirror Glass with Backing Plate |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Subaru Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror with Compass (H501SFJ001) |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | LivTee XLarge Frameless Convex Blind Spot Mirror (2-pack) |  |
1. Kool-Vue Left Heated Power Mirror for Subaru Impreza (2012–2014)
| Auto Part Position | Left |
|---|---|
| Operation Mode | Power |
| Other Special Features | Heated, Manual Folding, Paintable Cap |
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific |
This Kool-Vue left-side exterior mirror is a direct-fit replacement for Subaru Impreza 2012–2014 and XV Crosstrek 2013–2014 models that brings factory-style features without needing major modifications. It provides power adjustment for easy aiming from inside the cabin, a heated glass element to clear condensation and ice, and a manual folding hinge to protect the mirror in tight parking situations. The part ships with one paintable cap and one textured black cap to match your vehicle, and the convex lens improves side visibility. Installation is a typical door-mount swap using the vehicle-specific mounting points and OEM-equivalent part numbers, so most mechanically competent owners or an independent shop can complete it quickly. Limitations include the manual folding rather than power folding and that cosmetic matching may require painting for a perfect color match. For drivers seeking a balanced, reliable replacement that restores common convenience features, this mirror covers the essentials well.
Best for: Drivers who want a practical, factory-style replacement that restores power adjust and heating on a 2012–2014 Impreza without upgraded folding features; good for owners who value reliability and an easy install.
Less Ideal for: People who require power-folding mirrors, integrated turn signals, or exact OEM color-matched trim straight out of the box should consider other options.
- Direct-fit, vehicle-specific design for Subaru Impreza 2012–2014 and XV Crosstrek 2013–2014
- Power-adjustable glass lets you set mirror position from inside the cabin
- Heated glass helps clear frost and fog for improved visibility in cold weather
- Includes one paintable cap and one textured black cap to match vehicle appearance
- Folds manually rather than offering power folding functionality
- May require painting to achieve an exact color match with the vehicle
Verdict: A straightforward, vehicle-specific left mirror that restores power adjust and heating for 2012–2014 Impreza owners who want a reliable, easy-to-install replacement.
2. A-Premium Pair Front Power Heated Foldable Side Mirrors for Subaru Impreza/XV Crosstrek (2012–2014)
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
|---|---|
| Position | Front Left and Right |
| Mirror Adjustment | Powered |
| Special Feature | Heated, Foldable |
| Plug Configuration | 10 hole 5 prong |
These A-Premium replacement mirrors provide a direct-fit front left and right solution for Subaru Impreza (2012–2014) and XV Crosstrek (2013–2014). They include powered mirror adjustment, heated glass, and manual foldability, and come as a pair with housings ready to install. The heated glass helps clear frost and light fog while the powered adjustment restores convenient in-cabin aiming; the left glass is flat and the right is convex for a wider field of view. Installation follows vehicle-specific wiring with a 10-hole 5-prong plug pattern so an experienced DIYer or professional tech can swap them without major modification. Notable limitations are the lack of turn signal and blind spot detection features and no memory function, so owners of higher trim levels that used those systems will lose those capabilities. Build quality is presented as durable and the parts include a one-year unlimited-mileage guarantee, but buyers should verify connector and harness compatibility before installation to avoid extra wiring work.
Best for: Buyers who want a practical, direct-replacement mirror set to restore powered adjustment and heating on older Impreza/Crosstrek cars without extra features, prioritizing function and fit over advanced sensors.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need turn signal indicators, blind spot monitoring, or memory mirror functions should look for higher-trim or sensor-equipped replacements.
- Direct vehicle-specific fit for specified Impreza and Crosstrek model years
- Powered mirror adjustment restores in-cabin control of aiming
- Heated glass clears frost and reduces fog buildup
- Comes as a matched driver and passenger pair with housings included
- No integrated turn signal or blind spot detection
- No memory recall feature for multi-driver settings
Verdict: A practical, factory-style pair of powered heated mirrors that restore essential function and fit for 2012–2014 Impreza and 2013–2014 Crosstrek owners.
3. A-Premium Left Driver Side Non-Heated Mirror Glass with Backing Plate
| Auto Part Position | Front Left |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Subaru Forester, Impreza, XV Crosstrek |
| Mounting Type | Side Mirror Glass Mount |
| Other Special Features of the Product | Non-Heated, with Manual Glass Adjustment |
| Lens Curvature Description | Flat |
This A-Premium left driver-side mirror glass is a direct replacement part for specific Subaru models and provides a straightforward way to restore a damaged or missing side mirror surface. It is flat glass with a backing plate and is built for manual adjustment only, so installation involves removing the old glass and pressing this unit into the existing mirror housing. The mirror is non-heated and lacks blind spot indicators, turn-signal lights, and auto-dimming, which keeps the unit simple and affordable. Constructed from glass with an ABS backing plate, the piece aims to match factory fit and visual clarity for everyday driving and parking tasks. The one-year parts guarantee offers basic protection for defects, but buyers should plan for professional installation if they are not comfortable with mirror disassembly. This is a no-frills replacement geared toward getting clear rearward visibility back without extra electronics or features.
Best for: Buyers who need an affordable, exact-fit mirror glass to restore clear side visibility on compatible Subaru models and who prioritize basic function over electronic features.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who require heated mirrors, blind spot indicators, integrated turn signals, or auto-dimming should consider an upgraded or OEM electronic replacement instead.
- Vehicle-specific fit for listed Subaru models for a snug replacement
- Includes backing plate for easier, secure mounting into the mirror housing
- Flat glass provides accurate, undistorted reflection for close-range visibility
- Simple non-electronic design reduces failure points and keeps cost low
- Not heated and lacks blind spot or signal features so it does not replace electronic functions
Verdict: A low-cost, vehicle-specific replacement that restores clear driver-side visibility on the listed Subaru models without adding electronic features.
4. A-Premium Right Front Passenger Side Non-Heated Mirror Glass with Backing Plate
| Auto Part Position | Front Right |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Subaru Forester, Impreza, XV Crosstrek |
| Mounting Type | Side Mirror Glass Mount |
| Other Special Features of the Product | Non-Heated, with Manual Glass Adjustment |
| Lens Curvature Description | Convex |
This A-Premium right passenger-side mirror glass replaces the convex, non-heated outer lens and comes pre-mounted to a backing plate for straightforward installation. It is intended as a direct fit for Subaru Forester 2014–2018, Impreza 2012–2014 (sedan), and XV Crosstrek 2013–2014, restoring the factory mirror surface without electronics. You install it by removing the damaged glass and snapping this unit into the mirror housing; the manual adjustment operation and convex curvature match the factory mirror geometry to preserve sightlines. The ABS backing plate and glass are marketed as durable and the part includes a one-year item-only guarantee. Limitations to note are the lack of heating, blind spot sensor, turn signal, or auto-dimming features, so it only replaces the optical surface rather than electrical functions. For drivers prioritizing a reliable, like-for-like visual replacement on the passenger side, this is a practical and simple solution.
Best for: Drivers who need a dependable, direct visual replacement for a cracked or missing passenger-side mirror and want a straightforward DIY swap to restore original sightlines.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need a heated mirror, integrated sensors, turn signals, or any electrical mirror features should choose a powered or feature-matched replacement instead.
- Vehicle-specific fit for listed Subaru models simplifies installation
- Pre-attached backing plate makes replacement faster and reduces handling risk
- Convex glass preserves wide field of view consistent with original mirror shape
- ABS backing and glass construction aimed at durability
- One-year unlimited-mileage guarantee on the item itself
- Does not include heating element or defog function
- No blind spot detection, turn signal, or auto-dimming capability
Verdict: A practical, vehicle-specific passenger-side glass replacement that restores factory-style visibility without electrical features, ideal for reliability-focused repairs.
5. Subaru Auto-Dimming Rearview Mirror with Compass (H501SFJ001)
| Operation Mode | Automatic |
|---|---|
| Mounting Type | Door Mount |
| Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Lens Curvature Description | Convex |
| Included Components | Dimming Mirror |
This Subaru auto-dimming mirror replaces the factory front mirror and automatically darkens when bright headlights hit it from behind, reducing glare for safer night driving. It installs as a door-mount, vehicle-specific fit and includes an integrated electronic compass for directional reference. Typical use is direct replacement of the factory mirror in compatible 2012–2016 Impreza, Crosstrek, and WRX models, restoring the convenience of automatic dimming without needing aftermarket adapters. Being a genuine Subaru part means the fit and finish match the original interior and the electrical connectors are factory-compatible, which simplifies installation and reduces fuss. The main limitation is that this unit does not include Homelink garage-door buttons, so it will not replace that functionality if your outgoing mirror had it. Buyers should also verify exact model part numbers before ordering to ensure compatibility with their vehicle's trim and wiring harness.
Best for: Buyers who want a direct factory-quality replacement that restores automatic anti-glare performance and a built-in compass with minimal installation hassle and reliable fitment.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need built-in garage-door/HomeLink controls or want an aftermarket mirror with additional features like integrated cameras or Bluetooth.
- Automatic dimming reduces rear glare for safer night driving
- Integrated electronic compass provides clear directional readout
- Genuine Subaru part ensures factory-quality fit and electrical compatibility
- Does not include Homelink or garage-door transmitter functionality
Verdict: Choose this genuine Subaru auto-dimming mirror to reliably restore factory night-glare reduction and a built-in compass with straightforward, vehicle-specific fitment.
6. LivTee XLarge Frameless Convex Blind Spot Mirror (2-pack)
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
|---|---|
| Compatible with Vehicle Type | Car, SUV, Truck, Van |
| Mounting Type | Door Mount |
| Other Special Features of the Product | 360 Degree Rotate and Sway Adjustable, Wide Angle View, HD Glass, Waterproof |
| Fit Type | Universal Fit |
These LivTee blind spot mirrors attach to your side mirrors to expand the visible field and help eliminate blind spots when changing lanes or merging. They use frameless HD curved glass and a small swivel bracket so you can rotate and tilt the mirror to fine-tune the view. The surface is treated for water repellency and anti-fog performance, and the package includes a strong 3M-style adhesive backing intended for long-term adhesion in varied weather. Installation is simple: clean the factory side mirror, stick the bracket, then press the mirror in place. For a 2012–2016 Subaru Impreza this is a low-effort safety add-on that gives a noticeably wider angle without altering the car; however, convex mirrors compress distances so objects will look farther away than they are, and the extra reflection can feel unfamiliar at first. Also you will need to position them carefully to avoid distracting glare or obstructing your main mirror view.
Best for: A driver who prioritizes straightforward safety improvements and wants a low-cost, no-modification way to reduce blind spots on a daily-driven Subaru Impreza.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking an integrated factory-style replacement mirror or those who prefer electronic solutions like blind-spot monitors should consider other options.
- 360 degree swivel bracket lets you precisely aim the mirror for each side mirror.
- HD curved glass with water-repellent finish reduces fogging and performs in wet conditions.
- Strong adhesive backing designed for secure attachment across weather cycles.
- Slim, frameless design minimizes visual bulk on the factory mirror.
- Convex surface alters distance perception so objects appear farther away than they are.
Verdict: Add these adjustable blind spot mirrors for a simple, reliable way to expand side visibility on a 2012–2016 Subaru Impreza without changing the factory mirrors.
Choosing the Right 2012-2016 Subaru Impreza Mirror: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment and Mounting
Fitment is the most critical factor for a 2012-2016 Subaru Impreza mirror because the mirror housing must align precisely with the door mounting points and gasket surfaces. A correct-fit unit attaches cleanly without forcing or modification, which reduces the risk of wind noise, water intrusion, and uneven pressure on the door skin.
Pay attention to the mirror base shape, bolt pattern, and whether the replacement requires the factory trim or a new gasket. Some mirrors are sold as full assemblies that include the base plate and mounting hardware, while others assume you will reuse existing components. Choosing the right approach affects installation time and the final fit quality.
Electrical Compatibility
For power mirrors, electrical compatibility matters for seamless operation of adjustments, heating, and any integrated indicators. The 2012-2016 Impreza came with multiple mirror wiring configurations across trims, so confirming that a replacement has the same connector type and pinout avoids rewiring or adapter needs.
Check whether the mirror supports low-voltage heating elements and whether the connectors match the vehicle harness. Mismatched connectors can lead to inoperative features or require splicing, which introduces failure points. Also confirm power and ground positions to ensure proper function of motors and heaters.
Glass Type and Optical Quality
Mirror glass determines what you see and how clearly you see it. Look for replacements that match the original glass curvature and size to maintain correct field of view and minimize distortion. Heated glass options are important in colder climates to clear ice and fog quickly, restoring visibility without manual scraping.
Glass adhesion and backing quality also affect durability; poorly bonded glass can separate from the housing or vibrate at highway speeds. If your vehicle originally used a convex or wide-angle insert for blind-spot coverage, choose a glass type that preserves that functionality.
Actuator and Mechanism Durability
The internal actuator and adjustment mechanism handle frequent use and must withstand environmental exposure. Durable gear materials and sealed motor housings reduce the chance of failure from moisture or debris. For the Impreza, where many owners use power adjustments regularly, a robust actuator preserves convenience and safety.
Inspect the reported materials and any IP or weather-resistance ratings. Mechanisms with metal gears or reinforced plastics tend to offer longer service life than thin molded components. Also verify that the mechanism allows full travel and smooth operation without binding.
Optional Features and Trim Match
Decide whether you need optional features such as heated glass, integrated turn signals, or power folding to match your vehicle trim. Selecting a mirror that matches the original feature set avoids losing functionality. Trim and finish also matter: paint-ready housings or black textured covers should match the door trim to maintain the car's appearance.
Consider whether you prefer a direct cosmetic match to your existing mirror or a universal finish that you will paint. Some owners opt for painted caps for a factory look, while others choose unpainted covers to save time.
Installation Complexity and Hardware
Installation difficulty varies by whether the replacement is a full assembly or a glass-only swap. Full assemblies typically include mounting plates, gaskets, and connectors for an easier install, while glass-only replacements require prying out and prying in the mirror glass and transferring electrical connectors carefully.
Factor in the tools, time, and whether you will reuse factory clips or need new hardware. Proper torque on mounting bolts and correct routing of wires are essential to avoid premature failures. If you are not comfortable with door panel removal or handling narrow electrical connectors, plan for professional installation.
Confirming the Mirror Configuration for Your Impreza
The 2012-2016 Subaru Impreza was offered with several mirror configurations depending on trim level and options. Before ordering, inspect your existing mirror for features such as power adjustments, heating elements, integrated indicators, and folding type. Identifying these traits ensures you order a replacement that maintains the intended functionality.
Document the connector style and count, and take photos of the mounting area. If your mirror has a painted cap, note its color code or whether you will repaint a primered cover.
- Check for a heated element: look for a visible grid on the glass or a heating symbol.
- Count connector pins to confirm electrical compatibility.
- Note whether the mirror folds manually or electrically.
Swapping the Glass Versus Replacing the Full Assembly
Glass-only replacement is faster and cheaper if the housing and mechanism are intact. It requires careful removal of the old glass and safe transfer of any heater or sensor connections. This route preserves the original housing finish and mechanism.
A full assembly swap is preferred when the housing, motor, or mounting base is damaged. Full assemblies typically arrive pre-assembled with the plate, wiring, and housing, reducing installation steps and the risk of mismatched parts.
- Choose glass-only if housing undamaged and mechanisms work smoothly.
- Choose full assembly if the base or electrical components are compromised.
Matching Electrical Connectors and Wire Colors
Connector match is a practical step that prevents rewiring. Compare pin configurations and wire color codes to the vehicle harness. When connectors match, you can plug the replacement directly into the factory wiring harness with minimal effort.
If the connector differs, plan for an adapter or careful splicing with sealed connectors. Maintain proper insulation and routing to keep moisture and vibration from compromising the electrical connection.
- Label wires before disconnecting to simplify reassembly.
- Use dielectric grease on connectors to reduce corrosion risk.
Painted Caps and Cosmetic Options
Some replacements come with primered or unpainted caps to be painted to the vehicle color. If you choose a painted cap, check the finish and match method to avoid color mismatch. Primered caps save weight in shipping and allow for exact color matching at a paint shop.
If you prefer a quicker install, select a unit with a color-matched cap listed for your model year, but still verify the cap shape and fit to avoid gaps at the seam.
- Bring paint codes or a sample to any paint-matching shop.
- Inspect paint edges after installation to ensure even gaps.
Routine Maintenance After Installation
After installing a replacement mirror, test all electrical functions while the door panel is still loose so you can correct wiring quickly if needed. Operate adjustments, heater, and any folding functions multiple times to seat gears and confirm smooth movement.
Periodically inspect the mounting bolts and the mirror glass adhesion, especially after winter driving or high-vibration conditions. Re-torque bolts and check seals to keep water out and prevent corrosion.
- Test heaters and adjustments immediately after installation.
- Recheck torque after the first few hundred miles.
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your Subaru Impreza configuration to see the most relevant Mirrors recommendations
How We Chose the Best 2012-2016 Subaru Impreza Mirror
We focused on factors that matter specifically for 2012-2016 Subaru Impreza owners. Primary evaluation criteria included fitment accuracy to the Impreza door and mounting points, electrical compatibility with factory wiring for power adjustments and heating, and the integrity of mirror glass and actuator components. We also weighed build quality for vibration resistance and weather sealing because Subaru owners often face variable climates.Additional filters included availability of heated-glass options where original equipment included heating, presence of power-folding or manual-fold configurations to match the vehicle, and whether the unit supported integrated turn signals or blind-spot add-ons if applicable to the original mirror type. We excluded options that required extensive vehicle-specific modification or rewiring, units with unclear fitment data for the 2012-2016 Impreza, and mirrors lacking clear details on electrical connector compatibility.In short, we selected mirrors that minimize installation time, maintain original functionality, and deliver reliable long-term performance for the Impreza chassis and model years covered.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Can I replace only the glass on my 2012-2016 Impreza mirror?
Often you can replace only the glass if the housing and mechanism are undamaged. Glass swaps are quicker but require careful handling of heaters and clips. If the motor or base is damaged, a full assembly is usually the better choice.
How do I know if my Impreza mirror has a heater element?
Look for a tiny heating symbol on the glass or inspect the back of the mirror for an electrical connector and extra wires. Heated mirrors typically have additional wires leading to the glass and will match to the vehicle harness if the car originally had that option.
Will a power mirror from a different trim level fit my Impreza?
Compatibility depends on mounting points and connector type rather than trim name. If the replacement shares the same base shape, bolt pattern, and connector pinout as your vehicle, it can fit. Always confirm those physical and electrical details before ordering.
Is professional installation necessary for mirror replacement?
Not always. Competent DIYers can install full assemblies or swap glass with basic tools, but door panel removal and electrical connectors can be tricky. Consider professional installation if you are uncomfortable with wiring or panel trim removal.
What should I do if the replacement mirror makes wind noise?
First verify that the mounting bolts are torqued correctly and that the gasket or trim piece seats fully. Improper fitment or missing gaskets commonly cause wind noise. If fit appears correct, inspect for warped housings or uneven gaps.
Can I add a blind-spot mirror insert to my Impreza replacement?
Yes. Many blind-spot mirror inserts attach to the face of the existing glass and can be added after replacement. Choose an insert sized to the glass and place it to minimize distortion while extending the field of view.
Final Verdict
When replacing a mirror on a 2012-2016 Subaru Impreza, prioritize exact fitment and electrical compatibility to preserve factory functions like power adjustment and heating. Decide early whether a glass-only swap or a full assembly best addresses the damage and your comfort with installation.Balance optical quality, actuator durability, and trim matching to meet your daily driving needs. By confirming connector types, mounting patterns, and optional features up front, you can select a mirror that restores safety and convenience with minimal fuss.
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