Randomer pulled my car wing mirror off so it's hanging down and smashed the joint

[Lottaberry]

Randomer pulled my car wing mirror off so it's hanging down and they've smashed the bit where it joins to the car body pane.

Was parked on the street and seem to have happened to a few other cars too as saw a random side mirror smashed to pieces only a few steps away from my car...

First time this has ever happened to me so not sure what to do. Got a quote from the car make company (parts and fitting come to a total of 300 (which is nearly half the price I paid for my very old car)- part only is 173 (but obviously I wouldn't know how to fit it)...

Have got breakdown cover and insurance - though I think the breakdown cover is maybe not relevant here and insurance would mean it counts as a claim so will hike up the insurance cost next year, right?

Tried halfords who say may be a body shop repair as it's the car body panel to which the side mirror is attached which has primarily been damaged.

Any tips or tricks on how to deal with this and get a low cost solution?

See if you can get one from a scrap yard.

Check out internet breakers yards. I used one for a new headlight once excellent service etc. Posted really quickly too, it was about 20 per cent of the dealer price inc. post. Then use a local independent garage to change it if you don’t have the skills.

Report it to the police. Unlikely they will catch the did who did it but you never know.

This sort of mindless vandalism really is annoying. As you've got an older car then makes things a bit cheaper/easier. In terms of finding a replacement as was said, an online car breakers would be good, or if near any big breakers yards can give them a ring and see. Would prob be a few £ more for them to remove the part from old car for you. Another option might be eBay, as plenty of stuff on there too. On the car parts section there is a bit where can enter reg number to ensure compatible part. As to how easy this is will depend on the car really, and if mirror is matched to car body colour (and want to keep it that way). If it's a more common car, should be cheaper and more of them about.

With fitting it, might just be a case of prising off an inner plastic panel, undoing a few bolts inside, unclipping any electrical connectors if have them, and then reversing process. Have a look on YouTube as will be instructional vids on there, it may well be easier than you imagine. Other cheap option could be a mobile mechanic as not paying for premises and things, and won't need any complicated equipment to fit it. Would also be able to come to home/work, so less hassle for you.

Just noticed you said about body panel damage too. If possible I'd just leave it and live with it so long as can replace mirror, so perhaps ask a mechanic on that one. If you go through insurance could get expensive in terms of increased premium, and they only will use more expensive places and new parts. They tend to work on a repair/value ratio of around 60%, so if repair comes to more than that value of the car, might decide to write off, which could well be case on your car if involving new panels. You could still keep car, but would lose excess, have increased premiums, and is a hassle.