- 1). Open the car door where the mirror is broken. Partially concealed by the door panel -- where the window frame attaches to the door -- a plastic, triangular cover hides the bolts that attach the mirror. Remove the cover. Some are held by push-in clips and are levered out; some have a single screw holding them in place, and others lift up and slide out. It is best to consult the service manual for the model being repaired, otherwise work carefully when removing the cover. When the cover is removed, a recessed access area to the mirror mounting nuts is exposed, but it may be necessary to remove foam insulation that prevents air intrusion. This will cover the attachment nuts.
- 2). Remove the nuts holding the mirror in place. There are usually three small nuts that are threaded to studs that are part of the mirror. These studs insert through mounting holes. Removing the nuts is all that is required to remove the mirror, however, if the mirror is powered the electrical connector must also be disconnected. It is easily accessed and disconnected. When all three nuts are removed, the mirror will slightly drop down--the studs will keep it in place--and it will not fall off and scratch the paint. The new mirror's studs will also hold the mirror in place. It is, though, easier to install the nuts if an assistant holds the mirror steady while threading them on the studs.
- 3). Install the new mirror. Be certain to use a gasket if required. The gasket prevents water from leaking into the door. Some suppliers include new gaskets as part of the purchase, however, some suppliers do not. Reuse the old gasket if necessary. Not all mirrors have traditional gaskets and use types of Styrofoam that is applied in critical places. Pay attention to the old mirror and make sure the new one is properly sealed. Align the studs and guide them through the mounting holes until the mirror is against the door frame. The studs will hold the mirror in place.
- 4). Install the mounting nuts onto the studs. Tighten them snugly. Do not over-tighten the nuts and cause the studs to pull out of the mirror's plastic stud mounts. Plug the power connection in and test the new mirror motor. Replace the insulation into the access hole, and install the decorative cover.
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