How to install a rear view mirror in an automobile

One of the many annoying realities of car ownership is the fact that a car's rearview mirror is, by necessity, attached to the inner windshield with adhesive. The adhesive is typically a strong one -- it's usually easier to break the glass than to detach the mirror -- but heat and humidity can work together to weaken its bond with the glass. And there are few places that concentrate heat and humidity more than an enclosed car. Even in mild weather, this can break loose the rearview mirror.

If it happens that you're presented with a dangling mirror one day when you unlock your car, don't despair. It's just one of many small automotive irritations, but it can be dealt with -- and you don't have to pay a mechanic to fix it.

Tools and Materials Required

1. Rubbing alcohol

2. Paper towels or a soft cloth

3. A wax crayon or marking pencil

4. A flat-bladed scraper

5. A flat-head screwdriver

6. A small pair of pliers

8. Scissors

8. A mirror reattachment kit (NAPA and 3-M make good ones)

The Procedure

NOTE: Humidity can sabotage your efforts to replace your rearview mirror. If possible, wait for a particularly dry day before attempting this procedure.

1. Use the scraper to scrape clean the area where the mirror was formerly attached. If the scraper blade is sharp enough, even the toughest adhesive will yield to it.

2. Pour some alcohol onto a paper towel or cloth and use it to wipe down the area you've just scraped clean in order to remove any grease, oils, or remaining adhesive. Allow the windshield to dry for at least five minutes.
3. Examine the attachment point of the mirror. You'll notice the presence of a small U-shaped button in the receptacle of the attachment point. It is imperative that you remove this button. In some cases, it is secured with a small screw, which it will be necessary for you to remove first. Usually, however, it's simply snapped into place. In this instance, use the pliers to press down the metal flange holding it in, and use the screwdriver to pry out the button.

4. Once you've removed the button (however you managed it), very carefully use the scraper to remove all traces of adhesive from its face. Then clean the button with alcohol. Allow it to dry for five minutes.

5. When the button is dry, place it against the spot on the windshield where you'd like the mirror to be attached. Make sure that it's in the appropriate spot, because once it's on, it's not something you can easily remove again.

6. Make sure that the curved end of the U-shaped button is facing UPWARD. Then use the crayon or marker to trace around the button. When you remove the button, the area where you want to install it will be marked. Set the button aside for now. read full guide...