Mini Cooper 2001-2006: How to Replace Side Mirror

Accidents happen, and occasionally a wing mirror gets destroyed in a minor parking lot mishap. Even when all is perfect, sometimes you just want a new color mirror cap. This article will walk you through replacing all things wing mirror, from the glass to the whole unit.

By Brett Foote - June 29, 2016

This article applies to the Mini Cooper (2001-2006).

Unlike a lot of small, fuel efficient cars, the Mini Cooper is fun to drive and fun to look at. Part of the fun is in the customization options available. Even if your side view mirrors—or wing mirrors in the proper British terminology—don't need to be replaced because of damage or malfunction, you may just want to change out the caps. Mini makes it easy to install checkered flag, Union Jack, or other contrasting accent color mirror caps, just by popping off a few clips. Also, as small as the Mini is, that doesn't stop it from getting into parking lot scrapes that might break off a mirror. But don't fret, the whole thing can be changed with just an Allen wrench, just like a piece of IKEA flatpack.

Figure 1. Just a few of the available custom mirror caps for the Mini.

Mini Cooper 2001-2006: How to Replace Side Mirror

Materials Needed

Allen wrenches
Small flat head screwdriver (optional)

If you only need to replace the mirror glass or cap, skip the first two steps.

Step 1 – Remove the old side mirror

Rotate the entire mirror assembly at the base and you'll see the three Allen screws that hold the mirror to the door. Remove those three screws with your Allen wrench and pull the mirror off, retaining the old rubber gasket underneath it. If you have power or heated mirrors, carefully pull out the connectors from the door and disconnect them from the old mirror.

Figure 2. Twist the mirror and the three screws are easily accessible.

Step 2 – Install the new side mirror

Connect the wiring connectors to the new side mirror. Make sure the plastic tab that the connector butts up against in the door is positioned toward the outside of the door. Rotate the base of the mirror to expose the screw holes and set it on top of the rubber seal. Reinstall the three Allen screws and tighten them, then swing the mirror back into place.

Step 3 – Replacing the side glass only

If you only want to replace the side mirror caps or the glass, you won't need any tools other than your hands; though, a small flat head screwdriver can be helpful. Push in on the upper edge of the mirror as far as it will go, then place your fingers underneath the lower edge of the mirror (which is now sticking out) and pull outward until you feel the clips release. If replacing the glass only, disconnect the electrical connector for the heated mirror and snap the new glass in its place. If replacing the cap, just set the glass aside so it doesn't get broken.

Figure 3. Push in at the top of the mirror glass and then pry it out from the bottom.
Figure 4. Pull the glass out of the mirror housing.

Step 4 – Replace the mirror cap

If you want or need to replace the outside caps, there are five clips that hold them to the mirror assembly. Use two fingers to release the two bottom clips first, then the three on top. The mirror cap will now pop off. If you have a hard time releasing the clips with your fingers, you can use a small tool or knife to release them, but be very careful because they are very fragile and prone to breaking. Once the old cover is off, simply press the new cover into the frame until all five clips lock in place, then press the mirror glass back in until it clicks into place.