How to Install the Interior Rearview Mirror?
3 Answers
Rotate counterclockwise by 45 degrees to remove it. After removal, the base of the interior rearview mirror remains attached to the front windshield. For installation, simply align it and rotate clockwise by 90 degrees. Angle it to hook the two lower clips onto the mounting plate fixed to the glass, then lift it upward until the two upper fixed clips are also hooked on, then release. When you can just see the rear wheels of the following car in the rearview mirror, the distance between the two cars is approximately 13 meters; when you can see the grille, it's about 6 meters; and when you see the upper edge of the rear bumper of the car in front, it's about 1 meter.
When I replaced my rearview mirror before, I was particularly afraid of cracking the windshield. Later, I discovered the trick lies in aligning the base properly. First, use an alcohol wipe to clean the metal base on the windshield—dust on the adhesive surface will prevent a strong bond. The new mirror's base has a slot, and you'll hear a click when it's securely fastened. My car is a Volkswagen Lavida, and during installation, I noticed the mirror angle was off. It turned out the base could rotate 360 degrees for adjustment. Remember to avoid working at high noon when it's extremely hot, as high temperatures can soften the adhesive, making detachment dangerous. It's advisable to wear gloves to avoid leaving fingerprints on the mirror. After installation, wait 24 hours for the adhesive to fully cure before adjusting the angle—this detail might not even be clearly stated in the manual.
Installing a rearview mirror isn't something you can brute force. I've found there are significant differences between car models. Japanese cars mostly use clip-on types - you need to hear that crisp click sound to know it's properly installed. German cars often have adhesive metal bases, where cleanliness is paramount. Last time when helping my dad replace the mirror on his old Crown, I discovered rust on the base affecting conductivity - had to remove the rust before installation. Pay attention to the installation height; it should align with the edge of the black sunshade area on the windshield for natural visibility. DIY installation actually saves a lot - dealerships charge 300-400 yuan just for labor to replace a mirror, while online parts cost only tens of yuan. But be extra careful with manual anti-glare mirrors to avoid damaging the adjustment knob.
