Mirror Removal and Installation – Exterior – 2.5L NA

Overview

This procedure outlines how to remove and install the exterior side mirrors on a Porsche 944 with an 8-valve engine configuration, covering both pre-1985.5 and 1985.5 onwards models. Properly removing and installing the mirrors is essential for maintenance, repair, or replacement, ensuring functionality and appearance. Always handle the mirror glass carefully to avoid breakage, and note that the passenger-side mirror uses magnifying glass for safety.

Pink and blue text represent links to additional resources, tools, parts, and partner websites.

Tools Required

• Small flat-tip screwdriver
• Electrical connector pin removal tool
• Metric socket set (including 10mm (3/8 inch) socket) and ratchet
• Allen wrench (4mm) (Pre-85.5)

Parts Required

• Replacement mirror glass (if needed): 944 731 035 00 (driver side) or 944 731 036 00 (passenger side, magnifying)
• Replacement mirror housing (if needed): 944 731 021 00 (left) or 944 731 022 00 (right)

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Remove the Mirror Glass (Pre-85.5)

1. Carefully insert a small flat-tip screwdriver between the mirror glass and the drive mechanism. Gently pry the glass away from the three push-pin connectors. Work slowly to avoid breaking the glass.

2. Disconnect the heater wires from the back of the mirror glass and set the glass aside in a safe place to prevent accidental damage.

Step 2: Remove the Mirror Glass (85.5 Onwards)

3. Locate the small hole on the bottom side of the mirror near the center. Insert a small flat-tip screwdriver into the hole.
4. Rotate the screwdriver handle to the left (counter-clockwise) to disengage the bayonet-style locking ring. This releases the mirror glass from the housing.
5. Remove the mirror glass, disconnect the heater wires from the back, and set the glass aside safely.

Step 3: Remove the Mirror Drive Mechanism or Motor

6. Use a 10mm (3/8 inch) socket and ratchet to remove the three bolts securing the mirror drive mechanism (Pre-85.5) or motor assembly (85.5 Onwards) to the mirror housing.

7. Disconnect the electrical connector from the drive mechanism or motor and set the assembly aside.

Step 4: Remove the Electrical Connector Pins

8. Use an electrical connector pin removal tool to push the pins out of the electrical connector plug, one at a time. This allows the wiring harness to pass through the mirror housing during removal.
9. (85.5 Onwards) Before removing the pins, mark the orientation of the wires relative to the indent on the motor plug to simplify reassembly.

Step 5: Remove the Mirror Housing (Pre-85.5)

10. Rotate the mirror housing toward the front of the car to access the Allen head bolt underneath.
11. Use a 4mm Allen wrench to remove the bolt, then slide the mirror housing off the wiring harness and remove it from the car.

Step 6: Remove the Mirror Housing (85.5 Onwards)

12. Rotate the mirror housing on its base to expose the mounting screws.
13. Remove the mounting screws using a 10mm (3/8 inch) socket or appropriate tool.
14. Lift the mirror housing off the door, feeding the motor wires down through the base as you remove it.

Step 7: Install the New or Reassembled Mirror

15. Perform the removal steps in reverse order to install the mirror. Ensure the correct mirror glass is used: the passenger-side mirror must have the magnifying glass (944 731 036 00).
16. (85.5 Onwards) If the wire orientation was not marked, consult the wire orientation diagram in the Porsche 944 Workshop Manual to correctly reinsert the pins into the electrical connector.
17. Secure all bolts and screws to the manufacturer’s torque specifications: tighten mirror housing bolts to 10 Nm (7.4 ft-lbs) and motor assembly bolts to 8 Nm (5.9 ft-lbs).

Post Procedure Checklist

• Verify that the mirror glass is securely attached and does not wobble.
• Test the mirror’s heating function by turning on the rear defroster (if equipped).
• Check the mirror’s motorized adjustment (if applicable) to ensure smooth operation.
• Confirm the passenger-side mirror uses the magnifying glass for safety.
• Inspect the mirror housing for proper alignment and secure mounting.

Sources

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