Rearview Mirror

Removal and replacement of the interior rearview mirror on a 2005 Dodge Viper, including detachment from the windshield mounting button and electrical connector for auto-dimming mirrors if equipped.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Rearview mirror assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Windshield mounting button adhesive kit × 1 — Use if button requires reattachment

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. If mirror is auto-dimming, disconnect battery negative terminal and wait 2 minutes for airbag system capacitor discharge
3. Adjust steering wheel to lowest position for better access to mirror

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove mirror cover (if equipped)
   If the mirror has a decorative cover or housing trim piece concealing the mounting hardware, gently pry it downward or rearward using a trim tool. Some Viper mirrors have an exposed mount; if no cover is present, proceed to next step.
2. 2

   Disconnect electrical connector (auto-dimming mirrors)
   If equipped with auto-dimming mirror, locate the electrical connector at the base of the mirror arm. Press the connector release tab and pull connector straight down to disconnect. Standard manual mirrors have no electrical connection.
3. 3

   Release mirror from mounting button
   The mirror attaches to a circular mounting button adhered to the windshield. Locate the set screw or locking tab mechanism at the base of the mirror arm where it meets the button. If a set screw is present (typically Torx T20), loosen it counterclockwise approximately 3 turns until the mirror arm releases. If a spring-loaded tab design, insert a flathead screwdriver into the release slot at the base and push upward while pulling the mirror assembly away from the windshield.
   ⚠Do not attempt to pry mirror directly off button without releasing the retention mechanism or you may damage the button or windshield.
4. 4

   Remove mirror assembly
   Once released from the locking mechanism, slide the mirror assembly upward off the windshield mounting button. The button itself should remain adhered to the windshield glass.
5. 5

   Inspect windshield mounting button
   Examine the mounting button on the windshield for damage, loose adhesive, or misalignment. If the button is secure and undamaged, it can be reused. If loose or damaged, the button must be removed and a new one installed using windshield adhesive kit per adhesive manufacturer instructions (typically requires cleaning with isopropyl alcohol, allowing 24 hours cure time).
6. 6

   Install new mirror assembly
   Align the new mirror arm mounting bracket with the windshield button. Slide the mirror assembly onto the button from below, ensuring the locking mechanism groove engages properly. Push firmly until the mirror is fully seated on the button.
7. 7

   Secure mirror to button
   If equipped with set screw, tighten the Torx screw clockwise until snug but do not overtighten (finger-tight plus 1/4 turn). If spring-loaded tab design, push upward on mirror until you hear or feel the tab click into locked position. Verify mirror does not rotate or move on the button.
8. 8

   Reconnect electrical connector (auto-dimming mirrors)
   If equipped with auto-dimming mirror, align the electrical connector and push together until the locking tab clicks into place. Tug gently to confirm connection is secure.
9. 9

   Reinstall mirror cover
   If a cover was removed in Step 1, align the cover with the mirror base and press firmly until clips engage. Ensure cover is flush and secure.
10. 10

    Reconnect battery and test
    If battery was disconnected, reconnect negative terminal. For auto-dimming mirrors (if equipped), start vehicle and verify the dimming function operates correctly when a light source is directed at the rear-facing sensor. Adjust mirror to desired viewing position.

Reassembly

1. Reassembly is covered in the procedural steps above as mirror installation is straightforward with no additional components requiring sequential assembly
2. Ensure all electrical connections are secure before reconnecting battery to avoid fault codes

Verification

• Verify mirror is firmly attached to windshield button with no play or rotation
• Confirm mirror adjusts smoothly to all viewing angles without binding
• For auto-dimming mirrors, test dimming function activates when light source is directed at rear-facing sensor
• Check that no warning lights are illuminated on instrument cluster after battery reconnection

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