Power Mirror Motor

This procedure covers the removal and replacement of a power mirror motor assembly on a 2007 Ram 3500 with 5.9L Cummins diesel engine.

Warnings

Tools required

Parts

• Power mirror motor assembly × 1 — Use OEM specification for side being replaced
• Door panel retaining clips (if needed) × 5 — Generic replacement clips

Preparation

1. Park vehicle on level surface and engage parking brake
2. Disconnect negative battery terminal and wait 2 minutes for airbag system capacitors to discharge
3. Roll window completely down to prevent damage during door panel removal
4. Identify which mirror (driver or passenger) requires motor replacement

Procedure

1. 1

   Remove door panel trim pieces
   Remove the triangular mirror trim cover at the front corner of the door by gently prying from the rear edge with a trim tool. Remove any screws behind this cover using a Torx T20 bit. This vehicle is equipped with power windows; no manual window crank handle removal is required.
2. 2

   Remove door panel mounting fasteners
   Locate and remove all Torx screws securing the door panel (typically 2-3 in the door pull area and 1-2 along the bottom edge). Use a T20 or T15 Torx bit as needed. Remove the door lock bezel by rotating counterclockwise or prying gently depending on year-specific design.
3. 3

   Detach door panel from door
   Starting at the bottom rear corner, use a panel removal tool to release the plastic retaining clips securing the door panel to the door frame. Work around the perimeter, gently pulling outward to disengage each clip. Lift the panel upward to release it from the upper door frame lip.
4. 4

   Disconnect door panel electrical connectors
   Reach behind the door panel and disconnect all electrical connectors for power locks, power windows (if equipped), and any additional switches. Press the locking tabs while pulling connectors apart. Carefully set the door panel aside on a protected surface.
5. 5

   Remove mirror electrical connector
   Locate the main power mirror electrical connector inside the door cavity near the mirror mounting area. Press the locking tab and disconnect the harness from the mirror assembly. Note the wire routing through any retaining clips for reinstallation.
6. 6

   Access mirror mounting hardware
   Peel back the vapor barrier or plastic weather shield in the upper front corner of the door to access the mirror mounting nuts. Use care not to tear the vapor barrier if it is adhesive-backed, as it provides water protection.
7. 7

   Remove mirror assembly from door
   Locate the mounting nuts securing the mirror base to the door frame (typically 10mm; verify count against service manual — usually three). While supporting the mirror from the outside, remove all the nuts. Carefully pull the mirror assembly away from the door, feeding the wiring harness through the door opening.
8. 8

   Separate mirror motor from housing
   With the mirror assembly on a workbench, verify whether the actuator/motor is separately serviceable on this vehicle — on many 2007 Ram mirrors the actuator is integrated and only the complete mirror assembly is available. If serviceable, locate the screws or clips securing the mirror motor to the back of the mirror housing, remove the fasteners, and disconnect the internal wiring connector between the motor and mirror adjustment mechanism. Note the orientation of the motor for proper installation of the replacement.
9. 9

   Install new mirror motor
   Position the new mirror motor into the mirror housing in the same orientation as the original. Connect the internal wiring harness to the motor. Secure the motor with the original mounting screws or clips, ensuring all fasteners are tight and the motor is firmly seated.
10. 10

    Reinstall mirror assembly to door
    Feed the mirror wiring harness through the door opening from outside. Align the mirror base studs with the mounting holes in the door frame. From inside, thread the three mounting nuts onto the studs and tighten securely in a cross pattern to ensure even seating of the mirror base.
11. 11

    Reconnect electrical and test function
    Connect the mirror electrical harness inside the door. Temporarily reconnect the battery negative terminal. Turn ignition to ON position and test all mirror adjustments (up, down, left, right) and heated mirror function if equipped. Verify smooth operation in all directions before proceeding.
12. 12

    Reinstall door panel
    Reconnect all electrical connectors to switches in the door panel. Position the vapor barrier to seal properly against the door. Align the door panel with the upper door frame lip and press firmly around the perimeter to engage all retaining clips. Reinstall all Torx screws, door lock bezel, window crank (if equipped), and mirror trim cover.

Reassembly

1. Ensure all door panel clips are fully engaged and the panel sits flush against the door frame
2. Verify the vapor barrier is properly sealed to prevent water intrusion
3. Test window operation to ensure no interference with door panel installation
4. Check that all switches and controls in the door panel function correctly

Verification

• With ignition ON, test mirror adjustment in all directions (up, down, left, right) to confirm smooth operation
• If equipped, verify heated mirror function activates when rear defrost is turned on
• Inspect mirror for any unusual noise or grinding during operation
• Verify mirror glass remains stable and does not vibrate excessively while driving
• Check door panel for proper fit with no rattles or loose clips

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