Rearview Mirror

This procedure covers removal and installation of the interior rearview mirror on a 1992 Dodge Viper, including detaching the mirror from its windshield-mounted base and replacing the assembly if needed.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rearview mirror assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Windshield mounting button (if adhesive mount) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Rearview mirror adhesive kit × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on level ground and engage the parking brake.
2. If the mirror is electrically powered (auto-dimming or compass), disconnect the battery negative terminal and wait 2 minutes.
3. Lower the driver's sun visor to provide clearance for mirror removal.
4. Identify the mirror mounting type: look for a visible set screw on the mirror arm near the windshield mount, or confirm it is an adhesive-bonded button mount.

Procedure

1. 1

   Disconnect electrical connector (if equipped)
   The 1992 Dodge Viper uses a basic manual (non-electric) rearview mirror with no auto-dimming or compass features, so no electrical connector is present. Skip this step for this vehicle. Gently press the connector tab and pull the connector apart. Route the connector away from the work area.
2. 2

   Remove mirror from mounting arm (set-screw type)
   If the mirror uses a mechanical mount, locate the small set screw on the underside or side of the mirror arm where it meets the windshield button. Use the appropriate driver (verify whether the set screw is slotted, hex/Allen, or Torx before starting) to loosen the set screw 2-3 full turns (do not remove completely). Slide the mirror assembly upward off the mounting button. If the screw is stubborn, apply light penetrating oil and wait 5 minutes.
3. 3

   Remove mirror from adhesive button (adhesive mount type)
   If the mirror uses an adhesive button mount with no visible set screw, firmly grasp the mirror base with one hand and the mirror housing with the other. Twist the mirror counterclockwise approximately 45 degrees while pulling away from the windshield. The mirror should release from the button. If it does not release, gently apply heat to the button area with a heat gun on low setting for 30 seconds to soften the adhesive, then twist and pull again.
4. 4

   Remove windshield mounting button (if replacing)
   If the adhesive button itself must be removed, apply heat to the button with a heat gun or hair dryer for 60-90 seconds to soften the adhesive. Use a flat-blade trim tool to carefully wedge between the button base and the windshield. Twist gently to break the adhesive bond. Work slowly to avoid cracking the windshield. Remove all old adhesive residue from the windshield using isopropyl alcohol and a plastic scraper.
5. 5

   Clean mounting surfaces
   Clean the windshield mounting area thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol and a lint-free cloth. If reusing the existing button, clean the button surface as well. Allow all surfaces to air dry completely for at least 5 minutes. The mounting area must be free of oils, dirt, and old adhesive for proper bonding.
6. 6

   Install windshield mounting button (if replaced or adhesive type)
   If installing a new adhesive button, follow the adhesive kit instructions precisely. Typically, apply a small amount of adhesive to the button base, position it on the windshield at the original location (mark the original button position before removal, as the exact factory location for the Viper should be referenced from the original mounting point), and press firmly for 30-60 seconds. Use the alignment marks on the windshield if present. Allow the adhesive to cure per manufacturer instructions (typically 10-15 minutes minimum, 24 hours for full strength).
7. 7

   Attach mirror to mounting button
   For set-screw type: Slide the mirror arm onto the mounting button, aligning the flat surfaces. Tighten the set screw with the T20 Torx driver until snug (finger-tight plus 1/4 turn). Do not overtighten. For adhesive type: Align the mirror base with the button and twist clockwise approximately 45 degrees until it locks into place. Ensure the mirror is seated fully against the button.
8. 8

   Reconnect electrical connector (if equipped)
   If the mirror has electrical features, reconnect the wiring harness connector by aligning the tabs and pressing firmly until it clicks. Ensure the wiring is not pinched or under tension.
9. 9

   Restore battery connection and test
   Adjust the mirror to the proper viewing angle and verify it holds position without drooping. No electrical functions require verification on this vehicle.

Reassembly

1. Installation is generally the reverse of removal, but adhesive-bonded buttons require proper curing time before the vehicle is driven.
2. If the mirror droops after installation, the set screw may need slight additional tightening or the adhesive may need more cure time.
3. Ensure all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked to prevent intermittent operation.

Verification

• Verify the mirror is securely mounted and does not move when adjusted.
• Check that the mirror provides a clear, unobstructed view of the rear window and adjusts smoothly through its full range of motion.
• If electrically equipped, confirm that auto-dimming engages when bright headlights are behind the vehicle and that compass or other features display correctly.
• Ensure no cracks or damage occurred to the windshield during removal or installation.

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