I've come across a few posts on this topic on here. Some tell you that you must remove the mirror glass first DO NOT do this. Not only is it not necessary but you risk damaging the mirror glass or the plastic retainer clip that holds it onto the motor or even the motor itself!

Back in the day before I knew the correct technique for removing a mirror I broke the retaining clip and one of the lugs on the motor. Now I know how to do it it's much easier but still not without potential issues.

Anyway, to remove just the cover (I have repainted mine) all you need to do is this:

1. Fold back the mirrors towards the door (not essential but easier)

2. Run your finger nails or a plastic card/trim remover tool along the bottom of the cover and gently pull out and up to release the 2 plastic clips shown by the green arrows in the photo.

3. When the bottom edge is free you can then grasp the cover from the inside and gently pull straight back away from the mirror housing. This will release the 3 round locating lugs shown by the red arrows in the photo. The lugs have split metal collars on them to give a tight fit into the mirror housing - don't loose them.

When you know how to do it it takes about a minute - Simples!

Replacing then after painting etc is a cinch. Just line up the round lugs and gently push home and engage the 2 lower clips.

Steve

 

I love hints like this where you can reduce not only the time but the potential of breaking other things. Of course you still need to be extra careful not to break the plastic clips.

Thanks.

Doug

 

Thanks for the EXCELLENT tip... cover came off VERY easily!

 

Wrapping Carbon Fiber 3M 2080 film on my 2000 XKR 100 convertible. Mirrors are really difficult. This solved the problem. The covers come off easy and the wrap is way, way better. Good post...thank you!
Jon

 

'Do not remove the mirror glass’. I agree. However, I would point out that by gently pressing the mirror glass edge adjacent to the car, the two outer tab ends needing to be released become visible through the gap thus created, and can easily be moved using a screw driver of 125 mm or more length. Light pressure in the joint casing/mirror-motor support needs to be applied to prevent the tab re-engaging.

Similarly for the upper inner tab (S-Type MY 2000), by gently pressing the bottom of the mirror glass as far as it will go, the inner upper tab becomes visible.