Loose and rattling side mirrors are a pretty common problem on E46 M3’s. Fortunately, it is very simple to fix and only requires a few tools.
| Tools Needed |
|---|
| 10mm socket |
| T20 torx socket |
| Microfiber towel |
Step 1:
Remove plastic trim that covers mirror bolts. This piece of plastic is held on by 2 clips. One can be undone by gently pulling on the top corner. Once that clip has popped out, pull the trim piece up gently. This will release the bottom clip and it can then be popped out towards the inside of the car.
Step 2:
Push the rubber grommet for the wiring harness through the door. It should slide through with minimal effort. Next, remove the 2 10mm bolts holding the mirror in.
Step 3:
The mirror will now move freely. Grab a microfiber towel and place it in between the base of the mirror and the paint on the door to avoid scratches. Remove the foam insulation from the mirror base and take care not to tear it. It just pulls straight out.
Step 4:
Tighten the two T20 torx bolts circled in the picture below. These back out over time and are what causes the mirror to get loose.
Step 5:
Reinstall the foam insulation to the mirror base.
Next, reinstall the rubber grommet into the circular opening in the door. Use a combination of pushing from the outside and pulling from the inside, it will eventually fall back into place.
Step 6:
Reinstall the 2 10mm bolts that hold the mirror on. Thread them in by hand first before tightening. It is fairly easy to strip the threads so don’t overtighten them.
Make sure you adjust the mirror so that the base fits perfectly parallel with the black window trim.
Step 7:
Reinstall the plastic cover. Line up the bottom clip with the opening in the door. Push the cover straight down and you will be able to pop the top clip back into place.
The process is the exact same for the passenger and drivers side mirrors.
Congrats! You’ve fixed your loose mirrors.
