rear view mirror recommendation

[wing-nut]

My automotive know how is so limited that I literally cant even clean my winshield without a bad result. I was windexing the inside of my windshild the other day and snapped off my rear view mirror by accident.

I was planning to upgrade it anyway though. Anyone have any recommendations? (for mirrors, not improving my mechanical ability, that's a hopeless cause).

Cheers,

[SteveJ]

Replacing the rear view mirror inside the car is fairly simple.

The early 02s had a very small mirror, I believe the later 02s had a slightly larger mirror(better visability). Another option is a 320i mirror (larger yet, but may interfere with the sunvisors). One popular option is to install an E30 rear view mirror(larger still) that also has integrated map lights. For the best visability, a Wink mirror is hard to beat. Just be VERY careful drilling the installation holes!

For you, just get a later 02 or a 320 mirror and install.

The base is held on with a spring/bearing on the left and right side. It can take quite a bit of pressure to get them to come off or go on.

[esty]

My automotive know how is so limited that I literally cant even clean my winshield without a bad result. I was windexing the inside of my windshild the other day and snapped off my rear view mirror by accident.

I was planning to upgrade it anyway though. Anyone have any recommendations? (for mirrors, not improving my mechanical ability, that's a hopeless cause).

Cheers,

if you'll browse the for sale forum, i have 2 mirrors listed for sale...an original 02 mirror and the larger one from a 320....either is a [snap] to install

[Ian]

Also, a mirror from a Bavaria is larger and snaps right in.

Ian

'76 M2

[Simon]

What do you mean you snapped it off? Was it actually broken? Mine snaps on and off as part of the way it is installed. Perhaps you can just snap it back on again.

If it really is broken, what part broke...the mirror or the stem. I ask, as the 320 mirror needs to be popped onto the 2002 stem inorder to fit around the window surround. Otherwise, some mild modification of the 320 stem will be required...do you have a metal file?

Simon

[esty]

What do you mean you snapped it off? Was it actually broken? Mine snaps on and off as part of the way it is installed. Perhaps you can just snap it back on again.

If it really is broken, what part broke...the mirror or the stem. I ask, as the 320 mirror needs to be popped onto the 2002 stem inorder to fit around the window surround. Otherwise, some mild modification of the 320 stem will be required...do you have a metal file?

Simon

i've simply replaced 2002 mirrors with 320 mirrors by snappy out the old and snapping in the new...i've never had to make any mods...they are identical except for the mirror size

[Napes]

Another option, though not nearly as readily available, is the larger mirror from 3.0 coupes. That's what Ive got in both my ' 75 and my wife's ' 76. As with the others, the mount is the same (but as stated above, getting them in is a bit of a bitch [as they'd say across the pond]).

Bob Napier

[jerry]

it's been my experience that the 320i mirrors need slight filing near the base to provide alittle clearance next to the windshield gasket. the sweep of the arm is slightly different than 02's.

and yes, the bavaria rear view mirror is a nice, no hassle replacement. same as a 530i (if you can find one). 530i uses same calipers, master cylinder and fuel pump as tii, fyi

[DukeRimmer]

Here's my e3 mirror with e21 visors.

[Simon]

Esty,

When I changed mirrors, original 2002 to 320, I switched the actual mirror parts but used the original 2002 support post. I found that the window gasket protruded in just a bit preventing the 320 stem/post from snapping into place. Using the original stem/post eliminated the problem. Was your window gasket not in the way?

Simon

[Brandon]

You can fit in a mirror from an e30 M3 which is slightly bigger and has map lights..which you need to wire....The Bavaria mirror is the best one though...snaps right in and is considerably bigger.

[Mike Self]

(nt)

[Paul7002]

(nt)

[Mike Self]

(nt)

[wing-nut]

I think i might go with a Wink, does anybody know if you can fit a 4 panel in an 02, or just a 3. The 4 panel is 29 inches long, i dont have my car with me right now, does it sound like that will fit? I'll just have my mechanic mount it for me.

Thanks-