Expert: William Forster - 5/16/2006

Question
I am planning on installing a new passenger side mirror on my 2002 Ford Explorer.  I have recieved the entire unit.  I am looking for tips and installation instructions.  Is this something I can do on my own?

Answer
Hello, and thank you for your question! Yes, putting on a new mirror is something you can do yourself. First, be sure you have the correct mirror. Ford has at least a half dozen different mirrors for explorer,  ranging from manual to heated to having a turn signal lamp inside of it. You will need to remove the door trim panel. Look carefully for attaching screws, there may be a couple hidden under small bezels attached to the panel. Look around the door release handle, and the power window switch bezel. CAREFULLY use a good, stiff putty knife to pry on bezels and panels. They cause less damage than a screwdriver. Again, handle the interior panel with kid gloves, bezels and panels are easily damaged if forced. If I remember correctly, once all of the screws and bezels are removed, the door panel lifts UP and off, with medium pressure. If it won't release, you still have a hidden screw somewhere. If you cant find what is holding the panel, don't force it. Let a professional do the job, it's cheaper than a new 300.00 panel. If you get the panel off, it should be pretty easy to figure out how to remove the old mirror, and unplug the wires. Installation is the reverse of removal. test the new mirror for proper function before re-installing the interior panel. Hey, Hope this helps! Bill