Rearview Mirror

This procedure covers removal and installation of the interior rearview mirror on a 1994-2007 Dodge Ram 2500 with 5.9L Cummins diesel engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Interior rearview mirror assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification or equivalent
• Mirror mounting button (if adhesive mount) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. If mirror has electrical connections (auto-dimming, compass, HomeLink), disconnect battery negative terminal and wait 2 minutes
3. Clean windshield work area with isopropyl alcohol and microfiber cloth
4. Identify mirror mounting type: screw-mounted bracket or adhesive button

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect electrical connections (if equipped)
   For mirrors with auto-dimming or other electrical features, gently squeeze the wiring harness connector tabs and pull straight down to disconnect from the mirror base. Allow the wire to hang freely without tension.
2. 2

   Remove mirror from mounting bracket (screw-mount type)
   For screw-mounted mirrors, locate the small set screw or Torx screw at the base of the mirror arm where it attaches to the windshield bracket. Use the appropriate small hex (Allen) or Torx driver to loosen the set screw (typically 2-3 turns); confirm the correct bit size against your fastener. Slide the mirror assembly upward off the bracket while supporting the mirror head with your other hand.
3. 3

   Remove windshield mounting bracket (screw-mount type)
   If replacing the entire assembly including windshield bracket, remove the Torx screws securing the bracket to the windshield button. On most Ram 2500 models the mirror bracket is retained to the windshield button by a single set screw that is snugged by hand; verify the exact configuration on your vehicle. Keep screws organized for reinstallation.
4. 4

   Remove adhesive-mounted mirror (alternate method)
   For adhesive-mounted mirrors, twist the mirror base counterclockwise approximately 90 degrees while pulling firmly away from the windshield. If mirror does not release, use a small flat-blade screwdriver to gently pry between the mounting button and mirror base. The adhesive button may remain on the windshield or come off with the mirror.
5. 5

   Remove old adhesive button from windshield (if needed)
   If the adhesive button remains stuck to the windshield, carefully scrape it off using a plastic scraper or razor blade held at a shallow angle. Remove all old adhesive residue with isopropyl alcohol. The windshield surface must be completely clean and dry for proper new button adhesion.
6. 6

   Install new mounting bracket or adhesive button
   For screw-mount: Position the bracket on the windshield button and tighten the set screw until snug — secure but not over-tightened to avoid cracking the bracket. For adhesive-mount: Apply new adhesive button to windshield per manufacturer instructions, typically pressing firmly for 30-60 seconds. Allow adhesive to cure per product instructions (usually 15-30 minutes minimum).
7. 7

   Install mirror to mounting bracket
   For screw-mount: Slide the mirror arm onto the windshield bracket from below, aligning the grooves. Push upward until fully seated, then tighten the set screw or Torx screw securely but do not overtighten. For adhesive-mount: Align the mirror base with the button and twist clockwise 90 degrees until it locks into place with an audible click.
8. 8

   Reconnect electrical connections and test
   If mirror has electrical features, push the wiring harness connector straight up into the mirror base until it clicks. Reconnect battery negative terminal. Start vehicle and verify auto-dimming function, compass, or other features operate correctly. Adjust mirror position to driver preference.

Reassembly

1. Ensure mirror mounting set screw is snug but not over-tightened to avoid cracking the bracket
2. For adhesive mounts, avoid adjusting mirror aggressively for 24 hours to allow full adhesive cure
3. Verify all electrical functions operate properly before returning vehicle to service

Verification

• Confirm mirror is solidly mounted with no movement or vibration when tapped gently
• Verify mirror adjusts smoothly to desired viewing angle and holds position
• For electrical mirrors, test auto-dimming by shining a light at the mirror from behind the vehicle
• Check that no airbag warning lights or fault codes are present on instrument cluster
• Ensure no cracks or damage occurred to windshield during installation

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

Codes that commonly send this job to the bay — tap one for symptoms, causes, and diagnostic steps.

Chasing one of these codes and not sure which part is guilty? Ask a master mechanic about YOUR car →

More procedures for this vehicle