Mirror Removal and Installation – Exterior

Overview

This guide explains how to remove and install the exterior side mirror on a Porsche 944 S / S2 with a 16v engine. This procedure is important for replacing a damaged mirror, upgrading to a new one, or accessing the internal wiring or motor assembly. It focuses on the passenger or driver side mirror for late-model 944s like the S / S2.

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Tools Required

• Small flat tip screwdriver
• Electrical connector pin removal tool (available at electronics stores)
• Metric socket set and ratchet (includes 10mm (3/8 inch) socket for bolts)

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Remove the Mirror Glass

1. 1. Locate a small hole on the bottom side of the mirror near the center.
   2. Insert a small flat tip screwdriver into the hole.
   3. Push the screwdriver handle to the left (counter-clockwise as you face the mirror) to rotate the sliding locking ring. This unlocks the bayonet-style mount holding the glass.
2. 
   4. Gently pull the mirror glass out of the housing.
   5. Disconnect the heating wire from the back of the mirror glass and set the glass aside in a safe place to avoid breaking it.

Step 2: Remove the Motor Assembly

6. 6. Using a 10mm (3/8 inch) socket and ratchet, remove the three bolts securing the motor assembly to the mirror housing.
   7. Carefully lift the motor assembly out of the housing.
   8. Mark the position of the wires relative to the indent on the motor plug (e.g., with a marker or tape) to make reassembly easier.
   9. Use an electrical connector pin removal tool to press the female pins out of the motor electrical connector, one at a time.

Step 3: Remove the Mirror Housing

10. 10. Rotate the mirror housing on its base to expose the mounting screws underneath.
    11. Remove the mounting screws with a 10mm (3/8 inch) socket and ratchet.
    12. Lift the mirror housing off the door while feeding the motor wires down through the base.

Step 4: Install the New or Reassembled Mirror

13. 13. Feed the motor wires back up through the base of the mirror housing.
    14. Position the mirror housing on the door and secure it with the mounting screws, tightening them to 10 Nm (7 ft-lbs) using a 10mm (3/8 inch) socket.
    15. Reconnect the motor electrical connector by inserting the pins into their original positions (use your earlier markings or refer to the Porsche 944 S / S2 wiring diagram if needed).

    

    16. Place the motor assembly into the housing and secure it with the three bolts, tightening to 10 Nm (7 ft-lbs).
    17. Reattach the heating wire to the back of the mirror glass.
    18. Align the mirror glass with the housing and press it in until the locking ring clicks into place (rotate clockwise if needed to lock it).

    Post Procedure Checklist

    • Check that the mirror glass is securely locked in place and doesn’t wobble.
    • Test the mirror adjustment motor to ensure it moves smoothly in all directions.
    • Verify the mirror heater works by turning it on and feeling for warmth after a minute.
    • Inspect the housing for proper alignment and tightness on the door.

    Sources

    • Clark’s Garage
    • Pelican Parts
    • Porsche 944 Workshop Manual, Volume 1
    • Youtube