How to Install a Driver Side View Mirror in a 2003 Ford Ranger

To replace the side view mirror on a 2003 Ford Ranger the door panel must be removed to expose the three bolts securing the mirror to the door. It is a simple money-saving repair to do yourself. Save money by buying side view mirrors at an auto parts store or an auto salvage yard, rather than the dealer. Always specify which side, since they are not interchangeable.

Instructions

1

Remove the two screws in the bottom of the door pull handle using the Phillips screwdriver for these and the remainder of the screws. Remove the window crank if the windows are manual. Use a Torx bit to remove the screw in the center of the handle and pull the handle off.

2

Pry off the large center panel that surrounds the inside door handle and arm rest using a common screwdriver. It just snaps off. Disconnect the electrical plugs connected to the window switch and door lock from behind the panel. Remove the screw toward the door handle, now exposed by the removal of the center panel.

3

Remove the screw in the lower rear part of the door panel. Lift the door panel straight up to release the inverted hooks from their recesses in the door. Remove the tape over the holes to the nuts securing the side view mirror. Unplug the mirror's electrical harness connector.

4

Use the 10 mm socket on a short extension to remove the three nuts located in the holes behind the mirror. Hold the mirror so it doesnt fall when you remove the last nut. Pull the mirror out of the door.

5

Install the new mirror by first feeding the electrical harness through the large center hole between the three stud holes. Align the studs on the new mirror with the holes in the door and push the mirror in. Install the three nuts on the mirror studs using the socket. Snug the nuts down without over-tightening. Plug in the electrical harness connector to the mirror.

6

Hold the door panel slightly higher than the door and lower it to place the hooks inside their recesses. Install the screw in the lower rear of the door panel and the one close to the door handle. Hold the center panel close to the door and plug in the window and door lock harnesses.

7

Align the snaps in the center panel with those in the door panel and push them in until they snap into place. Install the two screws in the bottom of the door pull handle in the armrest. Install the window crank (manual windows only) and insert and tighten the Torx bolt in the center of the handle.