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

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 BMW X5, 2002 BMW X5, and 2001 BMW X5. 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. Refer to 51 16 ... CALIBRATING 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 on end caps (1) and at same time press them apart; this releases clip connection of both caps (1).

Fig 1: Pressing On End Caps

G03168660

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 (Right)

G03168661

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 (Left)

G03168662

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: Locating Clips And Retaining Hooks Of End Caps

G03168665

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Disconnect plug connection (1).

NOTE:

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

Fig 5: Disconnecting Plug Connection

G03168663

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.

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

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

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

Fig 6: Identifying Damage Control Unit For Rain Sensor

G00410088

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

G03168659

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.