1. Visual Inspection:
* Carefully examine the button: Look for any small crevices or seams around the button. There might be a tiny clip visible.
* Try gentle manipulation: Use your fingernail or a small, flat, non-marring tool (like a plastic pry tool or a guitar pick) to gently probe around the edges of the button. See if you can feel any clips or if the button seems to be slightly loose. Apply minimal pressure to avoid breaking the button or the mirror housing.
2. Removal Techniques (in order of least to most destructive):
* Gentle prying: If you locate a small gap, try gently prying the button away from the mirror housing. Work your way around the perimeter slowly and evenly. A small amount of adhesive may be present. If it doesn't budge easily, stop and try another approach.
* Heat application (use with extreme caution): A hair dryer on a low setting *might* soften any adhesive holding the button in place. Apply heat for a very short time (10-15 seconds), then try prying again. Be extremely careful not to overheat the plastic, which could warp or melt.
* Investigating the back of the mirror: If the above fails, gently remove the mirror itself from the windshield mount. There might be screws or a clip holding it in. This gives you better access to the button and reveals the attachment mechanism more clearly. This is usually the best approach.
3. Re-attaching:
Once the button is removed, clean both the button and the mirror housing thoroughly with isopropyl alcohol to remove any adhesive residue. Use a strong, appropriate adhesive (like automotive-grade epoxy or strong double-sided tape designed for plastics) to reattach the button securely. Make sure to properly align it before the adhesive sets.
Important Considerations:
* Take photos: Before you begin, take detailed photos of the button's position and how it's attached. This will be invaluable when reassembling.
* Patience is key: Rushing this process will likely result in damage. Proceed slowly and deliberately.
* If in doubt, seek professional help: If you're uncomfortable attempting this yourself, take the car to an auto glass repair shop or an experienced mechanic. They will have the tools and expertise to remove and reattach the button safely.
Remember, the goal is to remove the button without breaking it or damaging the mirror housing. If you encounter significant resistance, stop and reassess. It's always better to err on the side of caution.
