The rearview mirror mount, which is attached to the windshield of your car, serves as a crucial component in ensuring clear visibility while driving. However, there may come a time when you need to remove this mount, whether it’s for repairs, replacement, or a simple cleaning. Embarking on this task requires a careful and systematic approach to avoid any damage to your vehicle or the mirror itself. In this article, we will guide you through the process of removing the rearview mirror mount effectively and safely. So, prepare your tools, gather the necessary materials, and let’s get started on this automotive maintenance endeavor.
Before we dive into the removal process, it’s crucial to locate the type of mount your rearview mirror employs. The most common types are the adhesive mount and the bracket mount. Adhesive mounts, as the name suggests, are secured to the windshield using a strong adhesive, while bracket mounts utilize screws or bolts to attach the mirror to the vehicle’s frame or roof. Identifying the type of mount you have will determine the specific steps involved in the removal process.
Once you have identified the type of mount, you can proceed with the removal. For adhesive mounts, the key is to dissolve the adhesive’s bond without damaging the windshield. You can achieve this by applying a specialized adhesive remover to the base of the mount and allowing it to penetrate for the recommended time. Using a plastic pry tool, gently pry the mount away from the windshield, being careful not to scratch the glass. For bracket mounts, simply unscrew the bolts or screws that secure the mount to the vehicle. If the screws are rusted or seized, you may need to apply a penetrating lubricant to loosen them. Once the screws are removed, the mirror and mount can be lifted off the vehicle.
Detaching the Mount Base
To detach the mount base, follow these steps:
1. Locate the mounting screws that secure the mount base to the windshield. These screws are typically located on the bottom or sides of the mount base.
2. Using a Phillips-head screwdriver, carefully loosen the mounting screws. Do not remove the screws completely at this point.
3. Gently pry the mount base away from the windshield, using your fingers or a thin plastic pry tool.
4. If the mount base is difficult to remove, apply downward pressure on the base while prying it away from the windshield.
5. Once the mount base is loose, remove the mounting screws completely and carefully lift the base off the windshield.
Tips:
- If the mount base has adhesive residue on it, use a damp cloth or alcohol wipes to remove it before reattaching the base to a new location.
- If you have difficulty loosening the mounting screws, try using a penetrating lubricant or a small amount of heat from a hair dryer to help loosen them.
- Be careful not to damage the windshield or the mount base while detaching it.
Cleaning the Surface
Before you attempt to remove the mount, it is crucial to carefully clean the surface to remove any dirt or debris. This will help prevent the mount from slipping or becoming damaged during the removal process.
Use a clean microfiber cloth dampened with a mild household cleaner or rubbing alcohol. Gently wipe down the area around the mount, removing any visible residue or grime.
Once the surface is clean, allow it to dry completely before proceeding with the mount removal.
It is recommended to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these could damage the surface of the rearview mirror or the adhesive holding the mount in place.
Here is a table summarizing the steps for cleaning the surface:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Gather your materials: microfiber cloth, mild household cleaner or rubbing alcohol |
| 2 | Dampen the cloth with the cleaning solution |
| 3 | Gently wipe down the area around the mount |
| 4 | Allow the surface to dry completely before proceeding |
How To Remove Rear View Mirror Mount
Removing a rear view mirror mount can be a simple task that can be completed in a few minutes with the right tools. Here are the steps on how to remove a rear view mirror mount:
- Gather your tools. You will need a Phillips head screwdriver, a flat head screwdriver, and a putty knife.
- Locate the screws that hold the mount in place. There are usually two screws located on the bottom of the mount.
- Remove the screws. Use the Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws.
- Pry the mount off the windshield. Use the flat head screwdriver to pry the mount off the windshield. Be careful not to damage the windshield.
- Clean the windshield. Use the putty knife to clean the windshield where the mount was attached.
People Also Ask
How do I remove a rear view mirror mount without screws?
If the rear view mirror mount is not held in place by screws, it is likely held in place by adhesive. To remove the mount, you can use a heat gun or a hair dryer to heat up the adhesive and then pry the mount off the windshield.
Can I remove the rear view mirror mount myself?
Yes, you can remove the rear view mirror mount yourself. However, if you are not comfortable doing so, you can take your vehicle to a mechanic and have them remove the mount for you.
How much does it cost to remove a rear view mirror mount?
The cost to remove a rear view mirror mount will vary depending on the type of mount and the location of the vehicle. However, most mechanics will charge between $20 and $50 to remove a rear view mirror mount.
