Side Mirror Assembly

Remove and replace the exterior side mirror assembly on a 2005 Dodge Viper, including disconnecting the electrical harness and removing mounting fasteners from inside the door.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Side mirror assembly (specify driver or passenger) × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Door trim panel clips (if damaged during removal) × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
2. Disconnect the negative battery terminal and wait 2 minutes to allow airbag system capacitors to discharge.
3. Lower the driver or passenger window fully to provide access and prevent interference during door panel removal.

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove Door Panel Fasteners
   Locate and remove all visible fasteners securing the door panel. On the 2005 Viper, check for screws in the door pull/armrest area and along the lower edge of the panel. The Viper typically uses a combination of Phillips screws and possibly one Torx fastener. Remove these fasteners and set aside.
2. 2

   Release Door Panel Clips
   Starting at the bottom rear corner of the door panel, insert a trim panel removal tool between the panel and door frame. Gently pry outward to release the retaining clips. Work your way around the perimeter of the panel, releasing each clip. Refer to the factory service manual for the exact clip count and locations on the 2005 Viper door panel. Avoid forcing the panel as this will break clips.
3. 3

   Disconnect Door Handle Cable and Harness
   Once the clips are released, lift the door panel upward slightly to disengage it from the window sill channel. Reach behind the panel and disconnect the door handle release cable by unhooking it from the latch mechanism. Disconnect any electrical connectors for power windows, locks, or speakers. Remove the door panel completely and set aside on a protected surface.
4. 4

   Remove Mirror Trim Cover
   Inside the door cavity, locate the triangular mirror trim cover at the forward upper corner of the door (visible with panel removed). This cover conceals the mirror mounting bolts. Carefully pry or unclip this trim piece to expose the mirror mounting hardware. On the Viper, this is typically a snap-fit cover.
5. 5

   Disconnect Mirror Electrical Connector
   If equipped with power mirrors, locate the electrical harness connector behind the mirror mounting area. Press the release tab and disconnect the connector from the mirror base. For manual mirrors, skip this step.
6. 6

   Remove Mirror Mounting Fasteners
   Locate the mirror base mounting fasteners securing the mirror base to the door frame (verify exact count and size against the factory service manual for the 2005 Viper). While supporting the mirror from the outside to prevent it from falling, remove all mounting fasteners. Carefully remove the mirror assembly from the door, guiding the electrical pigtail (if equipped) through the door opening.
7. 7

   Prepare New Mirror Assembly
   Unpack the new mirror assembly and inspect for any shipping damage. If equipped with power adjustment, verify the connector orientation and pins are intact. Compare the new mirror to the old unit to confirm correct match.
8. 8

   Install New Mirror Assembly
   Guide the new mirror's electrical pigtail (if equipped) through the door opening. Align the mirror base mounting holes with the door frame studs or holes. Support the mirror from the outside while starting all 3 mounting bolts by hand. Once all bolts are started, tighten them evenly to the manufacturer's specified torque (verify in the factory service manual; typical mirror mounting bolts are in the 7-10 lb-ft / 10-14 Nm range).
   Torque spec

   Module Mounting Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)
9. 9

   Reconnect Electrical Connector
   If equipped with power mirrors, connect the electrical harness to the mirror base connector. Ensure the connector locks fully with an audible click. Before proceeding, reconnect the battery negative terminal temporarily and test mirror operation in all directions. Disconnect battery again before continuing.
10. 10

    Reinstall Mirror Trim Cover
    Snap or clip the triangular mirror trim cover back into position over the mounting bolts. Ensure it is fully seated and flush with the surrounding door surface.
11. 11

    Reinstall Door Panel
    Reconnect all electrical connectors for power windows, locks, and speakers. Reattach the door handle release cable to the latch mechanism. Position the door panel at the window sill and engage the top edge into the sill channel. Press firmly around the perimeter to engage all retaining clips. Reinstall all door panel screws and fasteners, ensuring they are snug but not overtightened to avoid cracking the panel.

Reassembly

1. Reconnect the negative battery terminal and tighten to specification.
2. Test power mirror operation (if equipped) in all directions to verify proper electrical connection.
3. Adjust mirror position for proper rearward visibility.
4. Test door panel security by pressing around edges to ensure all clips are engaged.

Verification

• Verify the mirror is firmly mounted with no play or vibration when touched.
• If power-adjustable, test all mirror adjustment directions (up, down, left, right) to confirm full operation.
• Inspect the door panel fitment to ensure all clips are engaged and panel is flush with door frame.
• Check that all door panel functions (window, lock switches) operate correctly.

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