How to Disassemble a Side-View Mirror

by Zyon Silket

rear view mirror image by itsallgood from Fotolia.com

The side mirrors on most late-model vehicles are constructed in the same manner. The mirror housing bolts through the door, a mirror motor is mounted inside the housing and the mirror lens mounts to the motor. To disassemble a mirror, you must follow a logical process of removing each piece. In doing so, you will make the task quicker and easier.

Step 1

Locate the access panel for the mirror's wiring harness and mounting nuts. The panel is usually triangular and mounts inside the door frame, directly opposite the location where the mirror housing bolts to the outside of the door. Pull the cover off the inner door panel using your hands.

Step 2

Disconnect the harness that connects the mirror's motor with the electrical system of the vehicle. If your mirror is not powered, skip this step.

Step 3

Remove the three nuts that secure to the mirror studs using a socket and ratchet. When removing the third nut, hold the mirror housing with one hand to prevent it from falling to the ground.

Step 4

Push the right side of the mirror lens into the housing if you are disassembling the driver's mirror. If you are disassembling the passenger mirror, push the left side of the mirror lens into the housing.

Step 5

Pull the mirror lens off the mirror mount or mirror motor. The lens snaps on to either one. You will not damage anything by pulling the lens off.

Step 6

Remove the screws that secure the mirror motor inside the mirror housing. The motor uses Torx screws so you will need a Torx screwdriver. Pull the mirror motor out of the housing. If your mirror is not powered, skip this step.

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