Installing mirrors from Grants on Nexia N150: step-by-step instructions

Owners of a popular sedan Daewoo Nexia N150 often face the problem of narrow visibility and insufficient functionality of standard side mirrors. Standard solutions from the Korean automobile industry of the early 90s are outdated and do not provide adequate comfort when driving in dense city traffic or on highways. That is why tuning using components from cars VAZ is becoming one of the most common methods of modernization.

The most optimal replacement option is mirrors from Lada Granta, which have a modern shape, improved aerodynamics and are often already equipped with electric drive and heating. However, a simple bolt-on installation is not possible here, since the body geometry and mounting points of these cars are significantly different. You will need to perform a number of plumbing works and modifications in order to adapt the new element to the Nexia seat.

In this article we will analyze in detail the entire replacement process, from the selection of components to the final adjustment. You will learn what tools you will need for the job, how to properly connect the electrics and avoid common mistakes that can lead to rattling or breakdown of the mechanism in the future. High quality installation It will take time and care, but the result is worth it.

Selection of components and preparation of tools

The first step is the correct selection of mirrors. There are many options on the market, including Chinese analogues and original products AvtoVAZ. Electrically adjustable mirrors are best suited for Nexia, as they have a more reliable fastening mechanism and allow you to bring the controls into the cabin. Mechanical versions will require more complex modifications to the rods or cables, which is not always justified.

Pay attention to the type of glass and the presence of additional functions. Modern models are often equipped with an athermal coating or an anti-reflective layer, which significantly increases safety. It is also worth checking the presence of wires in the mirror itself - sometimes they come as standard, even if the functionality is not activated, which simplifies the subsequent installation of heating.

⚠️ Attention: When purchasing, be sure to check the integrity of the plastic case and the operation of the folding mechanism (if there is one). Cheap analogues may have play in the hinges, which after installation will increase due to vibrations of the Nexia body.

To carry out the work you will need a specific set of tools. You should not rely only on the standard set of a motorist, as some operations will require accuracy and precision. Prepare in advance a drill, drills for metal and plastic, a set of screwdrivers, pliers and electrical tape or heat shrink.

• 🔧 Drill or screwdriver with a set of drill bits of different diameters.
• 🔨 Plastic spatulas for removing door trim without damage.
• ⚡ Multimeter for checking electrical circuits and finding a plus.
• 🧴 Degreaser and sealant for body work.
• 📏 Ruler and marker for precise marking of holes.

Pay special attention to the selection of fasteners. Standard bolts from Granta may not match the length or diameter of the thread for the doors Nexia N150. It is better to purchase a set of bolts, nuts and washers of various sizes in advance in order to be able to adjust the mount during the fitting process. Using high-quality hardware will eliminate the risk of unscrewing by vibration.

Removing old mirrors and disassembling the door card

The process begins with dismantling the standard mirrors. On the Nexia N150 they are attached quite simply, but access to the internal nuts is hidden by decorative overlays. First you need to carefully remove the triangular plastic element at the base of the mirror. This should be done without excessive force so as not to break the plastic clips, which become brittle over time.

After removing the external elements, you will need to partially dismantle the door card. This is necessary in order to gain access to the inside of the door, where the new wires will go through and the mirror base will be attached. Remove the window handle (if it is mechanical) and the decorative trim of the door handle.

Next, disconnect the wires from the standard speaker and the power window unit, if installed. It is better to remove the door card completely and put it in a safe place. Now you have access to the metal base of the door and the mounting location of the old mirror. Unscrew the fastening nuts and remove the standard product.

When dismantling, pay attention to the condition of the door seal. If the rubber gasket under the mirror is damaged or has lost its elasticity, it is better to replace it. This will prevent moisture from getting inside the door frame, which is especially important for used cars, where the metal may have already corroded.

Fitting and installing new fasteners

The most important stage is adaptation of the seat. Mirrors from Grants have three attachment points located differently than on Nexia. You will have to drill new holes in the door frame and possibly in the metal of the door. Before drilling, be sure to do a thorough fitting by placing the new mirror on the door and marking the centers of the holes with a marker.

Often it is necessary to install additional reinforcing washers or plates on the inside of the door. This is necessary to distribute the load, since the contact area of ​​Grant mirrors can be smaller and the weight higher. The use of large diameter washers or special aluminum adapter plates will ensure structural rigidity.

When drilling into the plastic of the door card, use a drill bit with a stopper or be very careful not to damage the interior trim on the back side. Holes in the door metal should be treated with an anti-corrosion compound immediately after drilling to prevent rust from appearing in areas where the factory coating has been damaged.

⚠️ Caution: Do not drill holes too close to the edge of the door card or where the metal bends. This can lead to cracks in the plastic during operation or damage to the door seal.

To fix the mirror, use bolts with threads similar to the standard ones, or switch to more reliable metric connections (for example, M6 or M8), if the design allows. Be sure to use bushings or spring washers to compensate for body vibrations when driving on rough roads.

• 📐 Carefully mark the holes using a ruler and corner.
• 🛡️ Treat the edges of holes in metal with anticorrosive.
• 🔩 Use washers to increase the contact area.
• 🧪 Check the tightness of the joints after installation.

After installing the base, check the tight fit of the mirror to the body. There should be no large gaps into which water or air will enter, creating a whistle at high speeds. If there are gaps, they can be eliminated using washers or a small amount of automotive sealant applied around the perimeter of the base.

Electric drive and heating connection diagram

If you are installing electric and heated mirrors, you need to properly organize the power supply. The standard wiring of the Nexia N150 does not provide for control of the side mirrors, so the wires will have to be pulled independently from the fuse mounting block or directly from the battery through a separate fuse.

To control the mechanisms, you will need to install a separate block of buttons. Most often it is cut into a free niche of the torpedo or placed on the door panel, if space allows. The connection diagram is quite simple: the plus power goes through the fuse to the button, and from the button it is distributed to the left and right mirrors according to the color coding of the wires.

Typical color scheme of VAZ mirror wires

White - general plus, Red/Green/Yellow/Blue - directional control, Black - mass (sometimes). The exact circuit depends on the year of manufacture and manufacturer of the mirror, so a test with a multimeter is required before connecting.

The connection of heated mirrors is usually carried out in parallel with the heated rear window. This is a logical solution, since both elements operate in the same weather conditions and do not require separate control. To do this, you need to find the wire that goes to the heated rear window (usually it is powered when the ignition and the heating button are turned on), and make a connection.

All wire connections must be reliably insulated. The best option is to use heat-shrinkable tubing, which ensures tightness and mechanical strength. Quick twists in a car quickly oxidize and can cause a short circuit or system failure.

Function	Power supply	Management	fuse
Electric drive	Fuse box (permanent +)	Button in the cabin	5-10 A
Heating	Rear window defroster circuit	Heated glass button	10-15 A
Weight	Car body	—	—

It is important to correctly calculate the cross-section of the wires. Copper wire with a cross section of 0.75–1.5 mm² is suitable for powering motors and heating elements. The use of wires that are too thin can lead to their heating and melting of the insulation, especially in the summer or during prolonged heating operation.

Door assembly and final adjustment

Once all electrical connections have been checked and the mirrors are secured, assembly can begin. Reinstall the door card, making sure that the wires are not pinched by the window lift mechanism or card mounting elements. All clips should snap into place with a characteristic click.

The next step is to adjust the position of the mirrors. Turn on the power and use the buttons to adjust the viewing angle. A correctly adjusted mirror should show a small part of your own body (approximately 5-10%) and a wide sector of the road from the side and behind. The lower border of the mirror should be approximately in the middle of the visible part of the road.

Check the operation of the folding mechanism (if provided) and the tightness of the closure. The mirror should not rattle when you tap on the door. If vibration is present, try placing additional gaskets between the mirror body and the door or tightening the pressure on the mounting bolts.

Don't forget to check the tightness. After installation, you can water the joint with a hose or bottle and check whether moisture has gotten inside the door or onto the contacts. If leaks are found, use automotive sealant to seal the cracks.

Common mistakes and expert recommendations

During the installation process, inexperienced professionals often make a number of mistakes that can ruin all efforts. One of the most common is saving on fasteners. The use of ordinary bolts without fixing the threads (grovers, clamps) leads to the fact that after a couple of thousand kilometers the mirror begins to dangle or even comes off.

Another mistake is incorrect wiring. Wires lying simply on the metal of the door quickly fray, which leads to a short circuit. Be sure to use corrugation or plastic clamps to secure the harnesses in safe places, away from the moving mechanisms of the window regulator.

⚠️ Attention: Never leave wires without insulation in places of possible contact with metal. Vibration will sooner or later remove the oxide layer and lead to a short circuit.

It is also worth mentioning the choice of the mirrors themselves. Cheap Chinese replicas often have distorted glass geometry, which creates the illusion of greater distance to objects. This can be dangerous when changing lanes. It is better to choose proven brands or original spare parts VAZ.

• ❌ Don't ignore sealing holes.
• ❌ Do not use twists without soldering or terminals.
• ❌ Do not leave wires in a stretched state.
• ❌ Don't neglect checking viewing angles.

Remember that modifying a car is a creative process that requires care. Correctly installed mirrors from Grants on Nexia N150 Not only will they improve the appearance of the car, but they will also make travel much safer.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions

Do I need to cut the metal of the door during installation?

In most cases, drilling new holes in the metal cannot be avoided, since the standard Nexia holes do not match the Grant ones. However, it is usually not necessary to cut large pieces of metal; it is enough to carefully drill holes for fasteners.

Is it possible to leave the mechanical adjustment?

Theoretically, it is possible, but this will require complex modifications to the rods or cables, since the geometric centers of rotation of the mechanisms are different. It’s easier and more reliable to immediately buy a kit with an electric drive and bring the buttons into the interior.

Will the mirrors whistle at speed?

If installed correctly and the housing fits tightly to the door card, there should be no extraneous sounds. Whistling can occur if large gaps remain or if non-standard mirrors with poor aerodynamics are used.

Is it difficult to connect the heating to the rear window button?

This is standard procedure. You need to find the rear window heating power wire (usually comes from a relay or button) and in parallel power the mirror heating wires through an additional fuse.