3 Easy Steps to Detach a Rear View Mirror

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Rear view mirrors are essential for safe driving, but they can sometimes become loose or damaged. If your rear view mirror is loose, it can be a safety hazard, as it can obstruct your view of the road. If your rear view mirror is damaged, it can be difficult to see out of your car, which can also be a safety hazard.

In this article, we will show you how to take off a rear view mirror so that you can repair or replace it. We will provide step-by-step instructions, as well as some tips on how to avoid damaging your mirror. Once you have removed your rear view mirror, you can follow our instructions on how to install a rear view mirror to put your new mirror in place.

Before you begin, it is important to gather the following tools and materials:

A Phillips head screwdriver
A flat head screwdriver
A pair of pliers
A clean cloth

Unlocking the Mechanism

The mechanism of a rearview mirror varies depending on the make and model of the vehicle. However, there are some general steps that can be followed to unlock the mechanism:

Locate the release button or lever: This is usually located at the base of the mirror, either on the left or right side. On some vehicles, there may be a small plastic tab that needs to be pressed or pulled.
Press or pull the release button: This will cause the mirror to pivot on its mounting point. Be careful not to pull too hard, as you could damage the mirror or its housing.
Gently lift the mirror away from the windshield: Once the mirror is unlocked, you should be able to lift it away from the windshield. Be careful not to drop the mirror, as it could break.
Disconnect any electrical connectors: If your rearview mirror has any electrical features, such as a compass or temperature gauge, you will need to disconnect the electrical connectors before completely removing the mirror.

Tips:

* If you are having difficulty unlocking the mechanism, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for specific instructions.
* If the mirror is stuck or difficult to remove, you may need to use a trim removal tool or a flathead screwdriver to gently pry it loose.
* Be careful not to damage the windshield or the mirror when removing it.

Adjusting the Tension

The tension screw on most rear-view mirrors can be adjusted to provide the necessary friction to hold the mirror in place. Here’s how to do it:

Locate the tension screw. It’s usually a small screw or knob located on the underside of the mirror mount.
Use a screwdriver or coin to turn the screw clockwise to increase tension or counterclockwise to loosen it.
Test the tension by gently moving the mirror. It should move smoothly but not too easily.

Tension Setting	Effect
Too Tight	Makes it difficult to adjust the mirror smoothly.
Too Loose	Causes the mirror to wobble or move on its own.
Just Right	Allows for easy adjustment while keeping the mirror securely in place.

Once you’ve adjusted the tension, tighten the screw to lock it in place.

Removing the Base Cover

To remove the base cover, follow these detailed steps:

1. Locate the Pressure Clips: Identify the small plastic clips that hold the base cover in place. They are usually located on the sides or bottom of the cover.

2. Gently Pry the Clips: Using a flat-head screwdriver or plastic pry tool, carefully insert it into the gap between the cover and the mirror housing. Gently pry the clips outward to release them from the housing.

3. Remove the Cover: Once all the clips are released, carefully lift the base cover straight up to detach it from the mirror housing. It may require some wiggling or gentle force to fully remove it.

Pressure Clip Location	Prying Technique
Sides or bottom of base cover	Gently insert a pry tool into the gap between the cover and housing, and pry outward.

Caution: Avoid using excessive force or sharp tools that could damage the base cover or mirror housing.

4. Disconnect Wires (if applicable): If there are any wires connected to the base cover, carefully disconnect them before fully removing the cover.

Disconnecting the Electrical Connectors

Once the mirror is loose, it’s time to disconnect the electrical connectors. Most rearview mirrors have two or three connectors, depending on the features of the mirror. The connectors are usually located on the back of the mirror, and they are held in place by small tabs. To disconnect the connectors, simply use a small screwdriver or your fingernail to pry open the tabs and pull the connectors apart.

If you are having trouble disconnecting the connectors, you can try using a pair of pliers. However, be careful not to damage the connectors or the wires.

Here is a table summarizing the steps for disconnecting the electrical connectors:

Step	Action
1	Locate the electrical connectors on the back of the mirror.
2	Use a small screwdriver or your fingernail to pry open the tabs holding the connectors in place.
3	Pull the connectors apart.
4	If you are having trouble disconnecting the connectors, you can try using a pair of pliers.

Lifting the Mirror Assembly

Once the screws are loosened, carefully lift the mirror assembly straight up to detach it from the baseplate. Do not pull too hard or jerk the assembly, as this could damage the wiring or connectors.

Use a thin, flat-bladed tool or a plastic pry tool to gently pry the assembly up from the baseplate, starting from the bottom edge and working your way around.

Be careful not to touch the mirror surface with the prying tool or your fingers, as this could leave smudges or scratches.

Once the assembly is lifted, support it with one hand while you proceed with the next steps.

Disconnecting the Wiring Harness

Once the mirror assembly is lifted, you will need to disconnect the electrical wiring harness. Locate the wiring harness connector at the back of the mirror assembly, usually behind the mirror glass.

Press the release button or tab on the connector to detach it from the mirror assembly.

If the connector is stuck, gently wiggle it back and forth while pressing the release button until it comes loose.

Take note of the location and orientation of the wiring harness connector for when you reassemble the mirror.

Here is a table summarizing the steps for lifting the mirror assembly:

Step	Description
1	Loosen the screws securing the mirror assembly to the baseplate.
2	Carefully lift the mirror assembly straight up to detach it from the baseplate.
3	Use a thin, flat-bladed tool to gently pry the assembly up from the baseplate, starting from the bottom edge.
4	Support the mirror assembly with one hand while you proceed with the next steps.
5	Locate the wiring harness connector at the back of the mirror assembly and press the release button to detach it.

Sliding Out the Mirror Glass

To remove the mirror glass from its housing, follow these steps:

Locate the release tabs: On the back of the housing, you will find two small tabs that hold the mirror glass in place.
Push the tabs inward: Using your fingers or a small tool, gently push both tabs inward simultaneously.
Slide the glass out: With the tabs depressed, the mirror glass will slide out of the housing. This may require some force, so apply steady pressure.
Disconnect the electrical connectors: If your mirror has any electrical features, such as heating or dimming, disconnect the wire harnesses that are connected to the glass.
Remove the trim cover (if applicable): Some vehicles have a trim cover that surrounds the mirror glass. If present, gently pry it off using a trim removal tool or a flathead screwdriver.
Inspect and clean: Once the mirror glass is removed, inspect it for any damage or debris. If necessary, clean the glass surface and the housing using a soft cloth and a mild cleaning solution. Be sure to thoroughly dry both components before reassembly.

Tip	Description
If the tabs are difficult to push in, try using a plastic trim removal tool to gently pry them open.	Avoid using excessive force or metal tools, as this may damage the housing or the mirror glass.
When sliding the glass out, be cautious of any sharp edges or broken glass.	If the electrical connectors are difficult to disconnect, use a small tool to gently release them.
Take care not to lose the trim cover, if present.	Always handle the mirror glass with care to prevent damage or scratching.

Removing the Mirror from the Arm

Once the base of the mirror is exposed, you can proceed to remove the mirror from the arm. There are two main types of mirror mounting mechanisms:

Friction-based: These mirrors are held in place by friction alone. To remove them, simply pull the mirror straight up and off the arm.
Screw-based: These mirrors are secured with screws. To remove them, use a screwdriver to loosen the screws and then pull the mirror off the arm.

Reversing the Process for Installation

1. Position the Mirror Arm

Align the mirror arm with the mounting bracket on the windshield. Make sure the arm is securely inserted into the bracket.

2. Install the Mirror Base

Place the mirror base over the mirror arm and push down firmly until it snaps into place. The base should fit snugly against the windshield.

3. Adjust the Mirror Angle

Move the mirror to the desired angle by adjusting the pivot point. You can use the mirror adjustment lever or manually adjust the mirror by hand.

4. Tighten the Mounting Screw

If the mirror arm is screw-based, tighten the mounting screw to secure the mirror in place. Make sure the mirror is properly aligned and stable.

5. Reconnect the Wires

If the rearview mirror has any wires for power or heated functionality, reconnect them to their respective connectors.

6. Conceal the Wires

If the wires are visible, use a cable concealer or wire clips to hide them for a cleaner look.

7. Double-Check the Installation

Before driving, ensure that the rearview mirror is securely installed, properly adjusted, and not obstructing your view. Test the mirror’s functionality, including any automated features like dimming or auto-folding.

Aligning and Tightening

Once the rear-view mirror is attached, it’s crucial to align it properly and tighten it securely. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure the mirror is correctly adjusted:

Step 8a: Position and Align

Hold the mirror at the desired height and angle, ensuring it provides a clear and unobstructed view of the rear. Shift it slightly until the best position is found.
Step 8b: Checking and Fine Tuning

Step back and sit in the driver’s seat to check the visibility. Make fine adjustments to the mirror’s tilt, height, and distance from the windshield until it aligns seamlessly with your line of sight.
Step 8c: Tightening the Assembly

Once satisfied with the alignment, firmly tighten the mounting screws to secure the mirror in place. Ensure they are adequately tightened but avoid overdoing it to prevent damage.

Tool	Required
Small screwdriver or Allen key	Yes

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter any issues while removing the rear view mirror, try the following troubleshooting tips:

Stuck Screws: If the screws are rusted or stuck, apply a penetrating lubricant and let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to loosen them.
Broken Base: If the mirror base is cracked or broken, it may need to be replaced before you can remove the mirror.
Stuck Wires: Check if any wires are pinched or stuck behind the mirror. Carefully disconnect any electrical connectors before pulling the mirror off.
Obstructed View: Ensure there are no obstructions (such as stickers or decals) that may hinder your ability to remove the mirror.
Incorrect Tools: Use the correct type and size of screwdriver to remove the screws. Using the wrong tools could damage the screws or the base.
Loose Mirror: If the mirror is loose but not coming off, apply a small amount of adhesive to the base to secure it before attempting to remove it.
Damaged Mount: If the mirror mount is damaged or not aligned, it may need to be repaired or replaced.
Different Mirror Types: Some vehicles have different rear view mirror designs that require specific removal techniques. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for instructions.
Safety Precautions: Always wear gloves and eye protection when removing the rear view mirror, as there may be broken glass or sharp edges.

Safety Precautions

Before beginning any maintenance task, it is important to take the necessary safety precautions to protect yourself and your vehicle. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when removing your rear view mirror:

1. Inspect the Area

Before attempting to remove the mirror, inspect the area around the mounting point. Ensure that there are no electrical wires or other obstructions that could be damaged during the removal process.

2. Use Gloves

Wear gloves to protect your hands from any sharp edges or splinters that may be present on the mirror or its mounting hardware.

3. Disconnect the Negative Battery Terminal

In some vehicles, the rear view mirror may be electrically powered. As a safety precaution, disconnect the negative battery terminal before removing the mirror to prevent any electrical hazards.

4. Secure the Mirror

Before removing the mounting bolts or screws, use a piece of tape or masking to secure the mirror in place. This will prevent it from falling and causing damage.

5. Keep Small Parts Organized

When removing the mirror, keep track of any small parts, such as screws, washers, or clips. These parts may be necessary for reinstallation and can easily be lost if not kept organized.

6. Use Proper Tools

Use the correct tools for the job. A Phillips or flathead screwdriver is typically sufficient for removing the mounting bolts or screws.

7. Apply Gentle Pressure

When removing the mirror, apply gentle pressure to avoid damaging the mounting surface or the mirror itself.

8. Check for Loose Wires

After removing the mirror, inspect the mounting area for any loose wires. If any wires are present, they may need to be reconnected before reinstalling the mirror.

9. Clean the Mounting Surface

Use a clean cloth to wipe down the mounting surface to remove any dirt or debris before reinstalling the mirror.

10. Reinstall the Mirror

Tool	Use
Phillips or flathead screwdriver	Tighten the mounting bolts or screws
Trim panel removal tool (optional)	Carefully release any trim panels that may be blocking access to the mounting bolts
Adhesive (optional)	Apply a small amount of adhesive to the mounting surface to secure the mirror (if necessary)

Follow these safety precautions to ensure a safe and successful mirror removal process. Remember to always refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific instructions regarding your vehicle.

How To Take Off Rear View Mirror

Getting a fresh rear view mirror for your car can be exciting but to fix one you need to remove your old rear view mirror. Follow these steps to remove the rear view mirror

Step 1: Wear gloves. The mirror is made of glass, and you don’t want to cut yourself if it breaks.
Step 2: Pull the mirror toward you. The mirror should come off easily. If it doesn’t, you may need to use a pry bar or a screwdriver to gently pry it off.
Step 3: Disconnect the wires. The mirror is connected to the car’s electrical system by a few wires. Disconnect the wires by pulling them straight out of the mirror.
Step 4: Remove the mounting bracket. The mirror is mounted to the car’s windshield by a metal bracket. Remove the bracket by unscrewing the bolts that hold it in place.
Step 5: Clean the windshield. Once the mirror and bracket are removed, clean the windshield where the mirror was mounted. This will help to ensure that the new mirror will adhere properly.