How to Install a Driver Side-View Mirror
- 1). Determine how the mirror is affixed to the door. Some trucks (like older Fords) are bolted on the exterior of the door, making the removal and replacement of these swing-mount mirrors pretty simple. If the mirror is located on the front edge of the door just past the window, open the door to see the area behind the mirror. Chances are there will be a plastic triangular piece of molding.
- 2). Roll the window all the way down to protect it.
- 3). Use the small angled pry bar or the straight-edged screwdriver to gently pry off the triangular molding from the backside or inside of the mirror. This is simply a snap-on piece of molding and will release with an equal balance of determination and finesse.
- 4). Peel back (if any) plastic-insulated wrap from the door frame and remove (if any) foam plugs. If the mirror is powered, locate the wiring on the inside of the door and unplug it from the harness. You may need the straight-edged screwdriver to press in the tab lock and then pull the outlet apart.
- 5). Locate the screws on the inside of the door panel under the triangular molding. There will most likely be three of them. Remove the nuts from the fixed mirror bolts using the ratchet and appropriate socket with a 3-inch extension. It might be wise to place a telescopic magnet alongside the nuts so when they're free, you don't accidentally drop them inside the hollow door.
- 6). Remove old mirror. You may have to force it a little since the weatherstripping beneath it and the fixed bolts may be somewhat adhered to the door.
- 7). Install new mirror and tighten nuts onto the bolts, again using the magnet and being careful not to drop them into the hollow door cavity. If it's a powered mirror, plug it back into the harness. Test the power mirror at this time. Replace foam plugs and reaffix plastic insulation if applicable.
- 8). Replace the triangular molding by inserting the bottom tab into the window cavity and then snapping into place.
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