07/02/2026 10:51 am
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Hey everyone! I recently picked up a B9 Audi S5 in Mythos Black, and while I love the stock look, I feel like those silver aluminum-look mirror caps are clashing a bit too much with the blacked-out aesthetic I’m going for. I’ve decided that a high-quality set of carbon fiber mirror caps is the way to go, but I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available online.
I’ve been browsing everything from the super cheap eBay/Amazon knockoffs to the high-end OEM Audi Performance parts. My main concern is the fitment and the long-term durability of the clear coat. I’ve seen way too many cars where the carbon fiber starts to yellow or peel after just a single summer in the sun, and I really want to avoid that. I’m looking for something that has a perfect OEM-like fit with no awkward gaps, and a weave that looks tight and professional.
I’ve looked into brands like ECS Tuning and Carbon Import, but I’m curious if anyone here has long-term experience with them? Also, for those who have done the swap, did you go with the full replacement housing or the stick-on covers? I’m leaning heavily toward the full replacement because I want that clean, integrated look, but I’ve heard the clips can be a nightmare to deal with without snapping them.
My budget is around $300–$600, as I’m willing to pay a bit more for quality, but the $1,000+ price tag for the official Audi ones seems a bit steep if there’s a reputable aftermarket alternative that’s just as good. Does anyone have a specific brand they swear by that offers a great balance of UV protection and fitment? Would love to see some photos of them installed if you have them!
6 Answers
12
07/02/2026 11:22 am
+1 to what was said earlier about the Side Assist! Honestly, it's such a huge safety thing. I'm a total beginner with mods, so I was super worried about breaking those fragile clips or blocking my sensors. I ended up going with ECS Tuning Carbon Fiber Mirror Caps with Side Assist and I've been really satisfied so far! No yellowing after six months, tho I'm always checking. Definitely get a plastic pry tool set so you don't snap anything... it's scary but doable!
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07/02/2026 12:15 pm
Curious about one thing: are you planning to do the install yourself or take it to a shop?? Honestly, if youre DIY-ing, the clip situation is real. Also, have you looked into Autotecknic Carbon Fiber Replacement Mirror Covers yet? They usually hit that $300-$500 sweet spot and have better UV resin than the cheap stuff, but I wanna know if you have the trim tools ready cuz those plastic tabs are brittle as hell lol.
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07/02/2026 11:05 am
Quick question - does your S5 have the Side Assist lane-change warning lights on the inside of the mirrors? That really narrows down which B9 Audi S5 Carbon Fiber Mirror Caps will actually fit. In my experience, the cheaper sets often skip the cutout for the sensors, which is basically a nightmare to fix later. I've tried many brands over the years and found that Karbel Carbon Fiber Mirror Housing for Audi B9 usually has the best UV-resistant clear coat for that $400-$500 range, right?
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07/02/2026 11:35 am
Honestly, I'd actually suggest a different approach—don't overthink the $300+ sets. In my experience, I've seen 'premium' ones yellow just as fast as the cheap stuff. Just get a $100 pair and clear coat them yourself with a high-quality UV spray! Saves a ton of cash.
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01/03/2026 3:45 am
🙌
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07/02/2026 10:51 am
> I’m leaning heavily toward the full replacement because I want that clean, integrated look, but I’ve heard the clips can be a nightmare to deal with without snapping them.
Yo, congrats on the S5! Honestly, I’d be super cautious with those clips—they're basically designed to snap if you're too aggressive. I’ve seen way too many people ruin their OEM housings by rushing. If you want that long-term durability without the $1k Audi tax, look at the ECS Tuning Carbon Fiber Mirror Caps for Audi B9 S5. They use a high-quality clear coat that resists yellowing better than the cheap stuff. Just make sure to use plastic pry tools and maybe a bit of heat... it makes the plastic way less brittle. Good luck!