DIY: Folding side mirrors. My favorite mod.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,825
Likes: 17
From: Southern California
E55 w/ goods, Z32 Project underway
DIY: Folding side mirrors. My favorite mod.
Even with all of my go fast stuff, this is one of my favorite mods on the car. It's just cool, at least to me.
Anyhow, as a DIY did not exist, just wanted to post up a quick one as this is a fairly straight forward and easy mod.
Tools needed:
T20
T30
Panel removal tool
Large sockets-see below
Summary:
1) Remove electrical from the inside
2) Remove mirror held on with 3qty T-20 screws
3) Install new mirror
4) Remove and swap out mirror switch
5) Code new mirror if you would like it to automatically open/close via the ignition switch.
Now on to the details
(1)Electrical
First off, if all you need to do is to remove the standard side mirror, there is no need to remove the interior door panel, just the corner plastic cover to gain access to the two connectors.
OK, so remove the interior plastic cover located near the hing which will allow access to the electrical. It just pops off, don't make it more difficult than it is. Look at the wire loom coming from the mirror, do not confuse with the wire for the tweater wire. There are two connections that are removed by pressing in the little tab. You can also see the picture further down with the panel off for a better look of the electrical.
(2) Remove mirror
Once you have disconnected the electrical it is time to remove the OEM mirror which is held on via 3qty T-20 screws. The problem here is that in order to gain access to these screws you need to push the mirror back to gain access to two screws and the other way to gain access to one.
The mirror is spring loaded and this is why you cannot just hold it back with your hand and remove the screws as once you remove the last screw the mirror will fly out of your hand-the spring load is pretty stout.
I used a large socket to prop up on the inside of the housing to keep it open. This is much safer vs using your hand.
At this time you will need to remove the housing. Shine a flashlight into the back(open) side of the housing and you will see a silver clip approx 3" back that pries up with a flathead screwdriver. Once this is done the mirror just slides right off provide the mirror glass is level. The pics below show where this little tab is. This is the only thing that locks the housing onto the mirror frame. Almost scary.
Once you remove the housing you will have access to the torx screws. Just remove them and remember to use sockets to hold the spring loaded housing open. Be very careful as you do not want the socket to slip out and go flying into the glass or body. Best to lower the window and cover the paint with a towel or other means for protection. Being the rebel I am I just took my time.
Notice the long socket on this one.
Now just feed the mirror and electrical out of the hole.
Remove one connector at a time as both will not feed through at the same time. Duh!
(3) Install new mirror
To install the new folding mirror there is no need for sockets as this mirror just pushes back and forth with a little effort. Feed the connectors and install the new mirror with the 3qty T-20 screws. No socket treatment needed to install the folding mirrors.
(4) Swap mirror switch/remove interior panel
OK, it is now time to remove the interior door panel.
Pop out the plastic cover behind the armrest. You will see a few T-30 screws. Remove them.
Remove the strike lock cover held on with a single T-20 screw.
Take a look at the picture up top where the electrical connections are. There is a single T-30 screw there that needs to be removed also.
OK, with all of the screws removed, use a panel removal tool or similar and pop the panel off the door shell. Oh, don't forget to unscrew the 60s style GM lock located up top.
In order to swap the switch you must remove the other switches on the door first as the tabs overlap-of course!
It is very straight forward and removal of the entire panel is not required provided you are careful not to pull on any of the electrical connections which could cause issues down the line.
Once it is swapped out, put it all back together in reverse order.
Place the housing back on the mirror frame and note there are two alignment 'ears' that slide into provisions in the housing. Just 'bump' it back and you may have to push the silver locking clip back into position. Pull on the housing to ensure it is secure-hate to see your housing fly off while in Famosa
(5) Coding.
The mirror now can be manually folded in and out via the mirror switch. You can have them coded to do this automatically via the ignition switch if you choose.
This is also a cool feature to have when stuck in traffic and those motors get close to your car as they whiz in-between cars.
That's it.
Anyhow, as a DIY did not exist, just wanted to post up a quick one as this is a fairly straight forward and easy mod.
Tools needed:
T20
T30
Panel removal tool
Large sockets-see below
Summary:
1) Remove electrical from the inside
2) Remove mirror held on with 3qty T-20 screws
3) Install new mirror
4) Remove and swap out mirror switch
5) Code new mirror if you would like it to automatically open/close via the ignition switch.
Now on to the details
(1)Electrical
First off, if all you need to do is to remove the standard side mirror, there is no need to remove the interior door panel, just the corner plastic cover to gain access to the two connectors.
OK, so remove the interior plastic cover located near the hing which will allow access to the electrical. It just pops off, don't make it more difficult than it is. Look at the wire loom coming from the mirror, do not confuse with the wire for the tweater wire. There are two connections that are removed by pressing in the little tab. You can also see the picture further down with the panel off for a better look of the electrical.
(2) Remove mirror
Once you have disconnected the electrical it is time to remove the OEM mirror which is held on via 3qty T-20 screws. The problem here is that in order to gain access to these screws you need to push the mirror back to gain access to two screws and the other way to gain access to one.
The mirror is spring loaded and this is why you cannot just hold it back with your hand and remove the screws as once you remove the last screw the mirror will fly out of your hand-the spring load is pretty stout.
I used a large socket to prop up on the inside of the housing to keep it open. This is much safer vs using your hand.
At this time you will need to remove the housing. Shine a flashlight into the back(open) side of the housing and you will see a silver clip approx 3" back that pries up with a flathead screwdriver. Once this is done the mirror just slides right off provide the mirror glass is level. The pics below show where this little tab is. This is the only thing that locks the housing onto the mirror frame. Almost scary.
Once you remove the housing you will have access to the torx screws. Just remove them and remember to use sockets to hold the spring loaded housing open. Be very careful as you do not want the socket to slip out and go flying into the glass or body. Best to lower the window and cover the paint with a towel or other means for protection. Being the rebel I am I just took my time.
Notice the long socket on this one.
Now just feed the mirror and electrical out of the hole.
Remove one connector at a time as both will not feed through at the same time. Duh!
(3) Install new mirror
To install the new folding mirror there is no need for sockets as this mirror just pushes back and forth with a little effort. Feed the connectors and install the new mirror with the 3qty T-20 screws. No socket treatment needed to install the folding mirrors.
(4) Swap mirror switch/remove interior panel
OK, it is now time to remove the interior door panel.
Pop out the plastic cover behind the armrest. You will see a few T-30 screws. Remove them.
Remove the strike lock cover held on with a single T-20 screw.
Take a look at the picture up top where the electrical connections are. There is a single T-30 screw there that needs to be removed also.
OK, with all of the screws removed, use a panel removal tool or similar and pop the panel off the door shell. Oh, don't forget to unscrew the 60s style GM lock located up top.
In order to swap the switch you must remove the other switches on the door first as the tabs overlap-of course!
It is very straight forward and removal of the entire panel is not required provided you are careful not to pull on any of the electrical connections which could cause issues down the line.
Once it is swapped out, put it all back together in reverse order.
Place the housing back on the mirror frame and note there are two alignment 'ears' that slide into provisions in the housing. Just 'bump' it back and you may have to push the silver locking clip back into position. Pull on the housing to ensure it is secure-hate to see your housing fly off while in Famosa
(5) Coding.
The mirror now can be manually folded in and out via the mirror switch. You can have them coded to do this automatically via the ignition switch if you choose.
This is also a cool feature to have when stuck in traffic and those motors get close to your car as they whiz in-between cars.
That's it.
Last edited by pearlpower; Jan 30, 2010 at 02:57 AM.
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,825
Likes: 17
From: Southern California
E55 w/ goods, Z32 Project underway
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 19
Likes: 0
From: California
04 E55 AMG
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Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,825
Likes: 17
From: Southern California
E55 w/ goods, Z32 Project underway
Junior Member
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 19
Likes: 0
From: California
04 E55 AMG
Thread Starter
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,825
Likes: 17
From: Southern California
E55 w/ goods, Z32 Project underway
I bought these with European glass for $600 or so from another member here.
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 353
Likes: 1
From: SOCAL
E500 & ML500
Regarding the power folding mirrors, I don't believe it is possible to swap parts from other MB models . Since when you are upgrading to the power folding mirrors for the w211. The only existing part you keep I believe is the painted mirror covers. The rest has to be changed out. I believe I saw a pair for sale recently, but they were in the $600 - $750 range.
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
E Class
[QUOTE=pearlpower;3917001]Even with all of my go fast stuff, this is one of my favorite mods on the car. It's just cool, at least to me.
Anyhow, as a DIY did not exist, just wanted to post up a quick one as this is a fairly straight forward and easy mod.
Tools needed:
T20
T30
Panel removal tool
Large sockets-see below
Summary:
1) Remove electrical from the inside
2) Remove mirror held on with 3qty T-20 screws
3) Install new mirror
4) Remove and swap out mirror switch
5) Code new mirror if you would like it to automatically open/close via the ignition switch.
Now on to the details
(1)Electrical
First off, if all you need to do is to remove the standard side mirror, there is no need to remove the interior door panel, just the corner plastic cover to gain access to the two connectors.
OK, so remove the interior plastic cover located near the hing which will allow access to the electrical. It just pops off, don't make it more difficult than it is. Look at the wire loom coming from the mirror, do not confuse with the wire for the tweater wire. There are two connections that are removed by pressing in the little tab. You can also see the picture further down with the panel off for a better look of the electrical.
(2) Remove mirror
Once you have disconnected the electrical it is time to remove the OEM mirror which is held on via 3qty T-20 screws. The problem here is that in order to gain access to these screws you need to push the mirror back to gain access to two screws and the other way to gain access to one.
The mirror is spring loaded and this is why you cannot just hold it back with your hand and remove the screws as once you remove the last screw the mirror will fly out of your hand-the spring load is pretty stout.
I used a large socket to prop up on the inside of the housing to keep it open. This is much safer vs using your hand.
At this time you will need to remove the housing. Shine a flashlight into the back(open) side of the housing and you will see a silver clip approx 3" back that pries up with a flathead screwdriver. Once this is done the mirror just slides right off provide the mirror glass is level. The pics below show where this little tab is. This is the only thing that locks the housing onto the mirror frame. Almost scary.
Once you remove the housing you will have access to the torx screws. Just remove them and remember to use sockets to hold the spring loaded housing open. Be very careful as you do not want the socket to slip out and go flying into the glass or body. Best to lower the window and cover the paint with a towel or other means for protection. Being the rebel I am I just took my time.
Notice the long socket on this one.
Now just feed the mirror and electrical out of the hole.
Remove one connector at a time as both will not feed through at the same time. Duh!
(3) Install new mirror
To install the new folding mirror there is no need for sockets as this mirror just pushes back and forth with a little effort. Feed the connectors and install the new mirror with the 3qty T-20 screws. No socket treatment needed to install the folding mirrors.
(4) Swap mirror switch/remove interior panel
OK, it is now time to remove the interior door panel.
Pop out the plastic cover behind the armrest. You will see a few T-30 screws. Remove them.
Remove the strike lock cover held on with a single T-20 screw.
Take a look at the picture up top where the electrical connections are. There is a single T-30 screw there that needs to be removed also.
OK, with all of the screws removed, use a panel removal tool or similar and pop the panel off the door shell. Oh, don't forget to unscrew the 60s style GM lock located up top.
In order to swap the switch you must remove the other switches on the door first as the tabs overlap-of course!
It is very straight forward and removal of the entire panel is not required provided you are careful not to pull on any of the electrical connections which could cause issues down the line.
Once it is swapped out, put it all back together in reverse order.
Place the housing back on the mirror frame and note there are two alignment 'ears' that slide into provisions in the housing. Just 'bump' it back and you may have to push the silver locking clip back into position. Pull on the housing to ensure it is secure-hate to see your housing fly off while in Famosa
(5) Coding.
The mirror now can be manually folded in and out via the mirror switch. You can have them coded to do this automatically via the ignition switch if you choose.
This is also a cool feature to have when stuck in traffic and those motors get close to your car as they whiz in-between cars.
That's it.
Anyhow, as a DIY did not exist, just wanted to post up a quick one as this is a fairly straight forward and easy mod.
Tools needed:
T20
T30
Panel removal tool
Large sockets-see below
Summary:
1) Remove electrical from the inside
2) Remove mirror held on with 3qty T-20 screws
3) Install new mirror
4) Remove and swap out mirror switch
5) Code new mirror if you would like it to automatically open/close via the ignition switch.
Now on to the details
(1)Electrical
First off, if all you need to do is to remove the standard side mirror, there is no need to remove the interior door panel, just the corner plastic cover to gain access to the two connectors.
OK, so remove the interior plastic cover located near the hing which will allow access to the electrical. It just pops off, don't make it more difficult than it is. Look at the wire loom coming from the mirror, do not confuse with the wire for the tweater wire. There are two connections that are removed by pressing in the little tab. You can also see the picture further down with the panel off for a better look of the electrical.
(2) Remove mirror
Once you have disconnected the electrical it is time to remove the OEM mirror which is held on via 3qty T-20 screws. The problem here is that in order to gain access to these screws you need to push the mirror back to gain access to two screws and the other way to gain access to one.
The mirror is spring loaded and this is why you cannot just hold it back with your hand and remove the screws as once you remove the last screw the mirror will fly out of your hand-the spring load is pretty stout.
I used a large socket to prop up on the inside of the housing to keep it open. This is much safer vs using your hand.
At this time you will need to remove the housing. Shine a flashlight into the back(open) side of the housing and you will see a silver clip approx 3" back that pries up with a flathead screwdriver. Once this is done the mirror just slides right off provide the mirror glass is level. The pics below show where this little tab is. This is the only thing that locks the housing onto the mirror frame. Almost scary.
Once you remove the housing you will have access to the torx screws. Just remove them and remember to use sockets to hold the spring loaded housing open. Be very careful as you do not want the socket to slip out and go flying into the glass or body. Best to lower the window and cover the paint with a towel or other means for protection. Being the rebel I am I just took my time.
Notice the long socket on this one.
Now just feed the mirror and electrical out of the hole.
Remove one connector at a time as both will not feed through at the same time. Duh!
(3) Install new mirror
To install the new folding mirror there is no need for sockets as this mirror just pushes back and forth with a little effort. Feed the connectors and install the new mirror with the 3qty T-20 screws. No socket treatment needed to install the folding mirrors.
(4) Swap mirror switch/remove interior panel
OK, it is now time to remove the interior door panel.
Pop out the plastic cover behind the armrest. You will see a few T-30 screws. Remove them.
Remove the strike lock cover held on with a single T-20 screw.
Take a look at the picture up top where the electrical connections are. There is a single T-30 screw there that needs to be removed also.
OK, with all of the screws removed, use a panel removal tool or similar and pop the panel off the door shell. Oh, don't forget to unscrew the 60s style GM lock located up top.
In order to swap the switch you must remove the other switches on the door first as the tabs overlap-of course!
It is very straight forward and removal of the entire panel is not required provided you are careful not to pull on any of the electrical connections which could cause issues down the line.
Once it is swapped out, put it all back together in reverse order.
Place the housing back on the mirror frame and note there are two alignment 'ears' that slide into provisions in the housing. Just 'bump' it back and you may have to push the silver locking clip back into position. Pull on the housing to ensure it is secure-hate to see your housing fly off while in Famosa
(5) Coding.
The mirror now can be manually folded in and out via the mirror switch. You can have them coded to do this automatically via the ignition switch if you choose.
This is also a cool feature to have when stuck in traffic and those motors get close to your car as they whiz in-between cars.
That's it.
Last edited by Mercedes3201965; Feb 12, 2015 at 09:35 AM.
Newbie
Joined: Nov 2013
Posts: 5
Likes: 0
E Class
W211 05, Avantgarde door signal light.
Hi there,
Thank you for the instructions on getting my cover off the mirror. It was a success, can anybody tell me what size in mm's, 0.5 0r 1.0mm are the cable's for the led signal light. As i need to go out and purchase a length cable before i remove the unit for the door for repair.
Thank you.
Thank you for the instructions on getting my cover off the mirror. It was a success, can anybody tell me what size in mm's, 0.5 0r 1.0mm are the cable's for the led signal light. As i need to go out and purchase a length cable before i remove the unit for the door for repair.
Thank you.
Last edited by Mercedes3201965; Feb 12, 2015 at 10:08 AM.
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Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 22,062
Likes: 974
From: MBworld
bone stock E55 AMG
Member
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 94
Likes: 7
From: Houston, TX
2006 E320CDI, 2012 E350 Bluetec, 2013 E350 Bluetec
This is a great mod. Expensive for what it is but I'd like to add the folding capability. I have a question though. Maybe someone can answer it.
To take the mirror cover off, you must fold the mirror. With a non power folding mirror, you simply fold the mirror by hand and unlatch the cover. How do you take off the cover on a folding mirror when the mirror (or motor) is non functional? You need to get the cover off to repair the mirror but you can no longer fold the mirror to get the cover off. My understanding is that if you manually fold a power folding mirror, you break the mechanism so now you HAVE to buy a new mirror frame even if the original problem might only have been wiring?
Can anyone address this?
To take the mirror cover off, you must fold the mirror. With a non power folding mirror, you simply fold the mirror by hand and unlatch the cover. How do you take off the cover on a folding mirror when the mirror (or motor) is non functional? You need to get the cover off to repair the mirror but you can no longer fold the mirror to get the cover off. My understanding is that if you manually fold a power folding mirror, you break the mechanism so now you HAVE to buy a new mirror frame even if the original problem might only have been wiring?
Can anyone address this?
Member
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 94
Likes: 7
From: Houston, TX
2006 E320CDI, 2012 E350 Bluetec, 2013 E350 Bluetec
I just got done with this modification. It is very nice. I ended up going with a right side dimming mirror. I originally bought a non dimming mirror and did not use it. It is a brand new original Mercedes heated, aspherically curved mirror. They are no longer available from Mercedes.
I am asking $100 shipped for it.
PM me if interested.
I am asking $100 shipped for it.
PM me if interested.
Member
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 94
Likes: 7
From: Houston, TX
2006 E320CDI, 2012 E350 Bluetec, 2013 E350 Bluetec
I am going through all of my extra parts I bought for this and I have an extra left hand auto dimming aspherically curved mirror. I bought it and then decided I wanted to go all new parts. This mirror is in perfect shape and I tested the auto dimming and heating. All works perfect. This is an original Mercedes mirror. I can tell you new ones are crazy expensive. I am selling for $100 shipped. Part number is A2118100321
Member
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 94
Likes: 7
From: Houston, TX
2006 E320CDI, 2012 E350 Bluetec, 2013 E350 Bluetec
I purchased a new Mercedes left hand mirror with auto dimming and heated glass. It is aspherically curved. It is for a C class and not an E class. The heating element connections are different so I need to sell it. Brand new Original Mercedes mirror. Part number is 2038100321. I am selling for $150 shipped. I have some mirror frames I will also put on here
