51 16 060 Removing and installing/replacing interior rearview mirror (with rain sensor)

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2010 BMW 550i, 2009 BMW 550i, and 2008 BMW 550i. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

IMPORTANT: Work may only be carried out at a room/object temperature of 18... 28°C.
If this cannot be guaranteed (cold/hot countries), it is necessary to equalize the temperature of the windscreen, mirror foot and rearview mirror (e.g. car left to stand indoors or in the shade for at least 30 minutes).

Version with remote key for central locking system:

If necessary, disconnect negative lead from BATTERY .

Version with compass:

Check compass function if replacing or after disconnecting interior mirror plug connection or battery.

If necessary, calibrate compass in interior rearview mirror.

E60 Security version:

Rain sensor is not installed, cable connection is tied back in roofliner.

IMPORTANT: To avoid windscreen breakage:
Snap out (press) rearview mirror only in direction of travel towards windscreen.
Do not under any circumstances twist the mirror foot when removing.
Twisting the mirror off the mirror mount will damage the rear catch.
If the rear catch is damaged, the mirror will be loose when installed and must be replaced.

Press end caps (1) towards mirror housing (2); this releases clip connection of both caps (1).

In order not to create any tension at the mirror foot, simultaneously apply counter-pressure to the mirror housing when removing the end caps.

Fig 1: Pressing End Caps Towards Mirror Housing

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Twist mirror (1) at an angle towards front and right/top.

Swivel left end cap (2) off ball neck in direction of arrow; this detaches the engagement clip (3) from the metal foot.

Fig 2: Twisting Mirror At An Angle Towards Front And Right/Top

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Twist mirror (1) at an angle towards front and left/top.

Swivel right end cap (2) off ball neck in direction of arrow; this detaches the engagement clip from the metal foot.

Fig 3: Twisting Mirror At An Angle Towards Front And Left/Top

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

Clips (1) and retaining hooks (2) of end caps (3) must not be damaged, replace if necessary.

Fig 4: Identifying Clips And Retaining Hooks Of End Caps

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Version with cable (X):

Disconnect plug connection (1).

NOTE:

Pay attention to cable guide (2) for rain sensor.

Fig 5: Disconnecting Plug Connection

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IMPORTANT:

Risk of damage!

Do not pull off rearview mirror (1) from windscreen against direction of travel and or snap out by turning.

When snapping out, do not damage control unit (3) for rain sensor.

E60 Security version:

Rain sensor is not installed, cable connection is tied back in headlining.

IMPORTANT: Do not pull or press inside mirror off towards front or rear.

Twist mirror base approx. 45° to right until mirror base is released from mirror mount.

Fig 6: Twisting Mirror Foot

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation note:

Twist mirror foot by approx. 45° and fit to mirror base.
Turn mirror base until it engages on mirror mount.

Fig 7: Identifying Mirror Twist Angle

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Only in case of replacement with version with remote key for central locking system:

If necessary, initialize all transmitters (ignition keys), refer to Owner's Handbook.