A vehicle’s rearview mirror needs to occasionally be removed for maintenance, repair, or replacement. Removing a rear view mirror is a relatively simple task that requires only a few tools and can be completed in a short amount of time. Before beginning the process, make sure that you have a clean, flat workspace in which to operate. Additionally, always refer to your vehicle’s owner’s manual for any specific instructions or precautions.
The mounting bracket for your rear view mirror typically consists of two parts: a base plate that is attached to the windshield, and a mounting arm that is attached to the base plate. To remove the rear view mirror, you will need to first remove the mounting arm from the base plate. This can usually be done by hand by pressing on a small release button or lever that is located on the side of the mounting arm. Once the mounting arm has been released from the base plate, you will need to carefully lift the rear view mirror straight up and off of the mounting arm.
Once the rear view mirror has been removed, you can proceed with the maintenance, repair, or replacement that you need to perform. When reattaching the rear view mirror, first fit the mounting arm onto the base plate. Then, carefully lower the rear view mirror onto the mounting arm until it snaps into place. Finally, press on the release button or lever on the side of the mounting arm to lock the rear view mirror into place. If needed, use a level to make sure it is straight so that you have the best view when driving.
Locate the Mounting Bracket
The first step in removing a rear view mirror is to locate its mounting bracket. This is a metal or plastic piece that is attached to the windshield and is responsible for holding the mirror in place. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, the mounting bracket may be located in a variety of different places.
In most cases, the mounting bracket will be located at the base of the windshield, near the center of the vehicle. However, on some vehicles, it may be located higher up on the windshield or even near the A-pillars. If you are unsure where the mounting bracket is located, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual.
Once you have located the mounting bracket, you will need to determine how it is attached to the windshield. Most mounting brackets are held in place by screws or bolts, but some may be attached using adhesive or clips. If the mounting bracket is secured by screws or bolts, you will need to use a screwdriver or wrench to remove them. If the mounting bracket is attached using adhesive or clips, you will need to carefully pry it away from the windshield using a thin object, such as a putty knife or a flathead screwdriver.
| Rear View Mirror Mounting Bracket Locations |
|---|
| Common Location: Base of windshield, near center of vehicle |
| Other Possible Locations: Higher up on windshield, near A-pillars |
| Attachment Methods: Screws or bolts, adhesive, clips |
Identify the Adjustment Screws
Before removing the rearview mirror from its mount, you need to identify the adjustment screws that hold it in place. These screws are usually located on the base of the mirror, either on the side or underneath. They may be covered with plastic caps or plugs, which you can remove with a small screwdriver or your fingers.
Once you have identified the adjustment screws, use a Phillips head screwdriver or an Allen wrench to loosen them. Be careful not to overtighten the screws, as this can damage the mirror or the mount.
Here is a table summarizing the steps for identifying the adjustment screws:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the adjustment screws on the base of the rearview mirror. |
| 2 | Remove any plastic caps or plugs covering the screws. |
| 3 | Use a Phillips head screwdriver or an Allen wrench to loosen the screws. |
Loosen the Adjustment Screws
Typically, the rearview mirror is secured to the mount with two adjustment screws. These screws allow you to adjust the position and angle of the mirror. To loosen the screws, you will need a Phillips head screwdriver.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Locate the two adjustment screws on the mount. They are usually situated on the bottom of the mount, near the base of the mirror.
2. Grip the first screw with the screwdriver and turn it counterclockwise to loosen it. Do not remove the screw completely.
3. Repeat step 2 for the second screw.
Tips
- If the screws are tight, you may need to apply some force to loosen them. However, be careful not to overtighten them, as this can damage the screws or the mount.
- If you do not have a Phillips head screwdriver, you can try using a flat head screwdriver. However, this may be more difficult, and you may need to apply more force.
- Once the screws are loose, you can proceed to remove the rearview mirror from the mount.
| Adjustment Screw | Location |
|---|---|
| Screw 1 | Bottom left of the mount |
| Screw 2 | Bottom right of the mount |
Push the Mirror Bracket Down
The fourth step in removing the rearview mirror from its mount is to push the mirror bracket down. This can be tricky, as the bracket is often held in place by a spring. However, it is possible to do it with a little patience and the right technique.
To push the mirror bracket down, start by locating the spring that is holding it in place.
Continue pushing down on the spring until the bracket is completely detached from the mount. Once the bracket is detached, you can remove the rearview mirror from the vehicle.
Tips for Pushing the Mirror Bracket Down
- If you are having trouble pushing down on the spring, you can use a pry bar or a screwdriver to help you.
- Be careful not to damage the spring when you are pushing it down.
- If you are unable to push the bracket down, you may need to take the vehicle to a mechanic.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the spring that is holding the bracket in place. |
| 2 | Use your fingers to push down on the spring. |
| 3 | Continue pushing down on the spring until the bracket is detached from the mount. |
Slide the Mirror Off the Mount
To slide the mirror off the mount, first, locate the release button or lever on the bottom of the mirror. This button or lever is typically located near the center of the mirror. Once you have located the release button or lever, press it while gently pulling the mirror towards you. The mirror should slide off the mount with ease.
If the mirror does not slide off the mount easily, you may need to use a small amount of force. However, be careful not to use too much force, as you could damage the mirror or the mount.
Here are some additional tips for sliding the mirror off the mount:
- Make sure that the mirror is in the down position before you try to remove it.
- Use a soft cloth or towel to protect the mirror from scratches.
- If the mirror is stuck, you can try using a small amount of WD-40 or another lubricant.
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Locate the release button or lever on the bottom of the mirror. |
| 2 | Press the release button or lever while gently pulling the mirror towards you. |
| 3 | The mirror should slide off the mount with ease. |
Disconnect the Electrical Connections (if applicable)
If your rear-view mirror is equipped with electrical connections, such as for a compass, temperature display, or dimming feature, it’s crucial to disconnect these before removing the mirror. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do so safely:
Step 1: Identify the Electrical Wires
Locate the electrical wires connected to the rear-view mirror. They may be bundled together and secured with tape or a connector.
Step 2: Disconnect the Connector (if present)
If there is a connector, gently pull it apart to disconnect the wires. Ensure you hold the connector, not the wires, to avoid damage.
Step 3: Identify Wire Colors and Connections
If there is no connector, you’ll need to identify the wire colors and connections. Refer to the vehicle’s electrical diagram or consult the mirror’s instructions to determine the correct connections.
Step 4: Cut and Strip the Wires (if necessary)
If the wires are not long enough to work with, or if you need to remove the mirror completely, you may need to cut and strip them. Use wire cutters to trim the wires, and then use wire strippers to remove a small section of insulation from each end.
Step 5: Cap or Connect the Wires
To prevent electrical shorts or damage, cap or connect the wires securely. You can use electrical tape or wire connectors to protect the exposed ends.
Step 6: Secure the Wires
Once the wires are disconnected, secure them out of the way to prevent them from becoming entangled or snagged. You can use zip ties, electrical tape, or wire clips.
Remove the Mounting Bracket (Optional)
The mounting bracket holds the rear view mirror in place. If you’re only removing the mirror itself, you can skip this step. However, if you’re also removing the mounting bracket, here’s how to do it:
- Locate the screws or bolts that secure the mounting bracket to the windshield.
- Use a screwdriver or wrench to remove the screws or bolts.
- Gently pull the mounting bracket away from the windshield.
- Disconnect any wires or cables that are connected to the mounting bracket.
- Remove the mounting bracket from the vehicle.
Removing the Mirror Without Removing the Mounting Bracket
If you’re only removing the mirror itself, you can do so without removing the mounting bracket. Here’s how:
- Gently pry the mirror away from the mounting bracket.
- Disconnect any wires or cables that are connected to the mirror.
- Remove the mirror from the vehicle.
Removing the Mirror with a Built-In Bracket
If your rear view mirror has a built-in bracket, you’ll need to remove the bracket along with the mirror. Here’s how:
- Locate the screws or bolts that secure the bracket to the windshield.
- Use a screwdriver or wrench to remove the screws or bolts.
- Gently pull the bracket and mirror away from the windshield.
- Disconnect any wires or cables that are connected to the bracket or mirror.
- Remove the bracket and mirror from the vehicle.
Clean the Mount and Bracket
Before you begin removing the mirror, it’s important to clean the mount and bracket to remove any dirt, debris, or adhesive residue. This will make it easier to remove the mirror and prevent damage to the mount or bracket.
To clean the mount and bracket, use a damp cloth or sponge with a mild soap solution. Gently wipe down the surfaces to remove any dirt or debris. If there is any adhesive residue, you can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove it.
Once the mount and bracket are clean, dry them thoroughly with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Materials You’ll Need
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Damp cloth or sponge | For cleaning the mount and bracket |
| Mild soap solution | For cleaning the mount and bracket |
| Cotton swab | For removing adhesive residue |
| Rubbing alcohol | For removing adhesive residue |
| Clean cloth or paper towel | For drying the mount and bracket |
Remove the Microphone and Any Trim Pieces
If your rearview mirror has a built-in microphone or other electronic components, you may need to remove these before you can detach the mirror from the mount. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to do this. Additionally, if there are any trim pieces or covers around the base of the mirror, remove these as well.
Loosen the Mounting Nut
Locate the mounting nut that secures the rearview mirror to the mount. Using a socket wrench or pliers, loosen the nut by turning it counterclockwise. Do not remove the nut completely at this point.
Rotate the Mirror Toward the Windshield
Once the mounting nut is loosened, gently rotate the rearview mirror toward the windshield. This will expose the mounting bracket that connects the mirror to the mount.
Separate the Mirror from the Bracket
Locate the small lever or release button on the mounting bracket. Depending on the type of mirror, this lever or button may be located on the side or bottom of the bracket. Press or slide the lever or button to release the mirror from the bracket.
Detach the Mirror from the Mount
Once the mirror is released from the bracket, carefully lift it off the mount. Be careful not to damage the wires or connectors that may be attached to the mirror.
Reinstall the Mirror (Optional)
Reattach the Mirror to the Mount
Align the rearview mirror with the mounting bracket and press it into place until it clicks or snaps. Make sure the mirror is securely attached to the bracket.
Tighten the Mounting Nut
Hand-tighten the mounting nut onto the mount. Using a socket wrench or pliers, fully tighten the nut by turning it clockwise. Do not overtighten.
Reinstall the Trim Pieces
If you removed any trim pieces or covers around the base of the mirror, reinstall them now.
Reattach the Microphone
If your rearview mirror has a built-in microphone, reattach it now. Consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions on how to do this.
Tighten the Adjustment Screws
Once you have access to the screw that tightens the rear-view mirror to the mount, you will need a screwdriver to tighten it. If you do not have a screwdriver, you may be able to use a coin or other small, flat object to tighten the screw.
Before you tighten the screw, you should make sure that the rear-view mirror is in the correct position. The mirror should be adjusted so that you can see clearly out the rear window, without any obstructions. Once you have adjusted the mirror to the correct position, you can tighten the screw.
To tighten the screw, simply turn it clockwise until it is snug. Do not overtighten the screw, as this could damage the mirror or the mount. Once the screw is tight, the rear-view mirror should be securely attached to the mount.
Helpful Tips for Tightening the Adjustment Screws:
| Tip |
|---|
| Use a screwdriver that is the correct size for the screw. A screwdriver that is too large or too small could damage the screw. |
| Tighten the screw until it is snug. Do not overtighten the screw, as this could damage the mirror or the mount. |
| If you are unable to tighten the screw with a screwdriver, you may be able to use a coin or other small, flat object to tighten it. |
| Once the screw is tight, the rear-view mirror should be securely attached to the mount. |
How To Remove Rear View Mirror From Mount
To remove a rear view mirror from its mount, you will need to follow these steps:
- Locate the release button or lever on the base of the mirror.
- Press the release button or lever and gently pull the mirror towards you.
- If the mirror is stuck, you can try using a pry tool to gently pry it loose.
- Once the mirror is removed, you can disconnect the electrical wires if necessary.
