Side Mirror Assembly

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of the side mirror assembly on a 2012-2018 Jeep Wrangler, including disconnecting electrical connectors for power mirrors.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Side mirror assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification
• Mirror mounting gasket × 1 — Use OEM specification

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and ensure ignition is off
2. For power mirrors, disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 2 minutes for airbag system to discharge
3. Roll down the window on the side being serviced for easier access
4. Gather all tools and new parts for inspection

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove interior door panel trim piece
   Carefully pry off the small triangular trim piece at the front upper corner of the door panel where it meets the mirror base. This piece covers the mirror mounting bolts. Use a trim removal tool to avoid breaking clips. On some models this may be held by one screw behind a small cover.
2. 2

   Disconnect mirror electrical connector
   Locate the electrical connector for the power mirror (if equipped) behind the trim panel. Press the release tab and carefully pull the connector apart. For heated mirrors, there may be two connectors. Label or photograph connector orientation for reassembly. Clean connector terminals with electrical contact cleaner if corrosion is present.
3. 3

   Remove mirror mounting bolts
   Locate the three T30 Torx mounting bolts that secure the mirror base to the door frame. These are accessible from inside the door once the trim is removed. Support the mirror assembly from outside the vehicle while removing the bolts to prevent it from falling. Remove all three bolts completely.
   ⚠Have a helper support the mirror from outside or use tape to temporarily secure it while removing final bolt
4. 4

   Remove mirror assembly
   Carefully pull the mirror assembly away from the door. The wiring harness should pull through the door opening. Check for and remove the rubber gasket/seal between the mirror base and door if it's stuck to the door surface. Inspect the mounting surface on the door for damage or corrosion.
5. 5

   Prepare new mirror assembly
   Inspect the new mirror assembly to ensure it matches the old unit. Install the new mounting gasket on the mirror base if not pre-installed. Route the electrical connector through the base if the harness is separate. Apply dielectric grease to electrical connector terminals to prevent corrosion.
6. 6

   Install new mirror assembly
   Feed the electrical connector through the door opening first. Position the mirror base against the door, aligning the three mounting holes with the door frame. Ensure the gasket is properly seated. Start all three T30 mounting bolts by hand to ensure proper thread engagement before tightening.
7. 7

   Torque mirror mounting bolts
   Using a torque wrench, tighten the three mirror mounting bolts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure on the gasket. Torque to specification to prevent over-tightening which can crack the mirror base or strip threads in the door frame.
   Torque spec

   Mounting Bolts39 Nm (29 lb-ft)
8. 8

   Reconnect electrical connector
   Connect the mirror electrical connector(s) firmly until the locking tab clicks into place. Gently tug on the connection to verify it's secure. For heated mirrors, ensure both connectors are properly seated. Route wiring to avoid pinch points from the trim panel.
9. 9

   Reinstall interior trim panel
   Position the triangular trim piece over the mirror mounting area. Press firmly to engage all clips or reinstall any retaining screws. Ensure the trim sits flush with no gaps. Check that trim does not interfere with window operation.
10. 10

    Reconnect battery and test
    Reconnect the negative battery terminal if it was disconnected. Torque the battery terminal bolt to specification. Turn ignition to ON position (engine off) and test all mirror functions including power adjustment in all directions and heating element if equipped.
    Torque spec

    Battery Terminal Bolts8 Nm (6 lb-ft)

Reassembly

1. Ensure mirror gasket is properly sealed to prevent water intrusion and wind noise
2. Verify all electrical connectors are fully seated and locked
3. Check that mirror adjustment range matches original operation
4. Confirm interior trim panels are secure with no rattles

Verification

• Test power mirror adjustment in all directions (up, down, left, right)
• For heated mirrors, verify heating function operates after 2-3 minutes of operation
• Check mirror for secure mounting with no movement or vibration while driving
• Inspect gasket seal around mirror base for proper sealing
• Verify no warning lights are illuminated on instrument cluster
• Perform visual inspection to ensure mirror is properly aligned with vehicle body lines

Related trouble codes on this vehicle

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