Tools You'll Likely Need:
* New Passenger Side Mirror: Ensure you purchase the correct replacement mirror for your vehicle's year, make, and model, specifying power or manual.
* Phillips head screwdriver (possibly Torx): The type depends on the screw type holding the mirror housing.
* Panel removal tools (optional but recommended): These plastic tools help prevent scratching the plastic trim.
* Towel or rag: To protect the door panel and mirror.
Steps (General):
1. Disconnect the Battery (Recommended): This step is crucial for safety, especially if your mirror is power-adjustable or heated. It prevents accidental short circuits.
2. Remove the Door Panel: This is the most challenging step.
* Locate the screws: There are usually screws hidden under the door handle, armrest, and possibly elsewhere around the door panel edge.
* Remove the screws: Carefully remove all screws.
* Unclip the panel: The panel is usually held in place by plastic clips. Gently pry the panel away from the door using your panel removal tools or a flat, blunt instrument (a plastic putty knife works well). Work your way around the perimeter, carefully releasing the clips. Be gentle to avoid breaking the clips.
3. Disconnect the Mirror Wiring Harness:
* Power Mirror: Locate the electrical connector for the mirror. Carefully unplug it.
* Manual Mirror: No wiring to disconnect.
4. Remove the Mirror Housing:
* Locate mounting screws: There will be screws holding the mirror housing to the door. Remove these screws.
* Remove the mirror housing: Carefully pull the housing away from the door.
5. Install the New Mirror Housing: Follow the steps in reverse order, connecting the wiring harness and securing the housing with the screws.
6. Reinstall the Door Panel: Carefully snap the clips back into place and reinstall the screws.
7. Reconnect the Battery: Once everything is reassembled, reconnect the battery.
8. Test the Mirror: If it's a power mirror, test its functionality (adjustment, heating if applicable).
Differences between Power and Manual Mirrors:
* Power Mirror: Will have a wiring harness you need to disconnect and reconnect carefully. The mirror itself might be more complex to remove.
* Manual Mirror: Simpler; there's no wiring harness to worry about.
Important Notes:
* Take pictures: Before you start disassembling anything, take pictures of the process. This will help you remember how everything goes back together.
* Be gentle: Use plastic tools to avoid scratching or breaking parts.
* If you're unsure: If you're not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. It's better to pay for professional service than to risk damaging your vehicle.
This guide provides a general overview. Variations might exist depending on your specific Mountaineer's trim level and options. Remember to consult your owner's manual for the most accurate instructions and diagrams. Good luck!
