How to Replace the Side Mirror on a 1997 Dodge Intrepid

The Dodge Intrepid was on the market from 1993 until 2004. The 1997 Dodge Intrepid had a 3.3-liter V-6 in the base model, and an available 3.5-liter V-6 in the upgraded ES model. The outside mirrors on the 1997 Intrepid were electronically controlled, via a switch panel located on the driver's side of the vehicle. Replacing the outside mirror on the 1997 Intrepid requires the removal of internal components from the vehicle, as well as some mechanical aptitude.

Instructions

1

Open the front door and sit in the seat nearest the mirror you wish to replace. Roll the window down on the door on which you are about to work. Remove the Phillips-head screw from the center of the small triangle, on the upper front portion of the door panel -- this will expose the inner workings and fasteners for the outside mirror.

2

Remove the three mounting nuts that hold the outside mirror in place, using the ratchet and socket. Keep one hand outside the window area and hold the mirror so that it does not simply fall out of place. Set the nuts on the floorboard, or place them in a place that you can easily access during installation of the new mirror. Unfasten the electrical connector from between the mirror and door frame by pulling the clip apart with your hand. Remove the outside mirror completely from the vehicle.

3

Insert the new outside mirror by aligning the mounting bolts with the three small mounting holes. Start all three mounting nuts onto the mounting bolts, once the bolts protrude through the door frame assembly. Use your fingers to spin each nut on, two or three threads deep. Connect the electrical connector to the new outside mirror by pushing the plug from the mirror into the connector on the door frame. Tighten the mounting nuts until they are snug, using the ratchet and socket. No torque is needed on these hold down nuts, and torque can damage the assembly.

4

Reinstall the triangular door panel cap that covers the inner side of the mirror. Tighten the Phillips-head screw until it is snug only, as no torque is necessary to hold this part in place.