How to Remove a Volkswagen Rearview Mirror?
4 Answers
Volkswagen rearview mirror removal method: 1. Use a flathead screwdriver to pry open a gap between the mirror housing and the base of the rearview mirror; 2. Press the lower part of the mirror by hand to its limit; 3. Insert the flathead screwdriver into the gap between the mirror and the housing to pry open the left and right slots; 4. Unplug the wiring harness connector behind the mirror to remove the mirror; 5. Hold the cylindrical part of the rearview mirror and rotate it counterclockwise by 45 degrees to remove the housing. Volkswagen is an automobile manufacturing company headquartered in Wolfsburg, Germany. The VW in its logo stands for the first letters of its full name, resembling three 'V's made with the middle and index fingers, symbolizing the company and its products' inevitable success.
I think removing the rearview mirror of a Volkswagen should be done step by step to be reliable. From my experience, the rearview mirror structure of Volkswagen models like the Golf or Passat is similar. Before removal, it's essential to disconnect the battery to prevent short circuits. Choose plastic pry tools or small screwdrivers as tools, avoiding metal ones to prevent scratching the door paint. Start by prying open the housing. If it has electric heating, carefully disconnect the electrical connector and mark its position for easier reassembly. The mirror base usually has hidden screws under the door's inner panel; after unscrewing them, gently pull to remove the mirror, being careful not to yank too hard and damage the wiring. The whole process takes about 10 minutes, but if you're not experienced, it's best to prepare a repair manual or video for reference. After removal, clean the mirror base and wiring harness to avoid dust buildup affecting installation, making it smoother when installing a new mirror next time. Remember, safety first—wear gloves to protect your hands.
As an ordinary car owner, I recommend not attempting the removal haphazardly—VW side mirrors aren't that simple. First, consult the manual for model-specific steps; some vehicles hide mounting screws inside the door panel. Gently pry open the housing with tools to disconnect electrical connectors, avoiding wire damage. Ideally, have two people collaborate during disassembly to prevent sudden mirror drops that could shatter glass. If unsure, visit a repair shop—professionals can handle it in minutes, saving time and hassle. DIY carries risks like electrical shorts that may fry control modules, leading to costlier repairs. Park carefully to avoid pillar scrapes and minimize damage risks.
The key to the removal process lies in the tools and sequence. I gently pry open the edges of the housing with a plastic pry bar to create a gap, then loosen the internal securing screws—Volkswagen models typically require a Torx wrench. Disconnect the electrical connectors slowly, as power mirrors often have waterproof gaskets for protection. After removal, clean the mounting slot and inspect the wiring for any signs of wear, using a multimeter to test continuity. Reassembly follows the reverse order, ensuring all connectors are securely fastened. This method is generally applicable across Volkswagen models, with the removal process taking approximately 15 minutes.
