51 16 060 Removing And Installing/Replacing Interior Rearview Mirror (With Mirror Arm End Caps)

WARNING: This page does not describe the selected car, but rather 6 other vehicles, including the 2006 BMW M3, 2005 BMW M3, 2004 BMW M3, 2003 BMW M3, and 2002 BMW M3. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Version With Remote Control For Central Locking:

If necessary, disconnect negative lead from battery. Refer to 12 00 ... INSTRUCTIONS FOR DISCONNECTING AND CONNECTING 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.

IMPORTANT: Do not snap out the interior rearview mirror (1) towards the rear (windscreen breakage). Do not under any circumstances twist the interior rearview mirror 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).

Fig 1: Pressing End Caps Towards Mirror Housing

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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

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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

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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: Checking Clips And Retaining Hooks Of End Caps

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Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Version with cable (X):

Disconnect plug connection (1).

Fig 5: Disconnecting Plug Connection

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Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

IMPORTANT: Do not remove interior mirror (1) towards rear or by twisting (risk of damage).

Snap out interior mirror (1) from mirror mount (2) towards front by striking with ball of thumb and remove.

Fig 6: Snapping Out Interior Mirror From Mirror Mount

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Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Installation:

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

Fig 7: Turning Mirror Foot

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Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Only Replace With Version With Remote Control For Central Locking:

Initialize all transmitters (ignition keys), refer to Owner's Handbook.