CF Mirror Replacement on M3 with Pics and Details

Snow M3 · 02-20-2011, 10:29 PM

I searched and searched for a detailed DIY with pics on how to switch mirror caps on the M3. It was very frustrating. Some said just pop it off while others had more complex approaches. Here's how I did it.

The dealer charged $906US ($200US of it for the installation) to get the OEM CF ones.

Things I learned:

1. It takes less than 10 minutes for both sides once you know how to do it. Probably less than 5 for an expert.
2. There are 4 clips/tabs that hold it to the mirror body and they are located toward the center of the cap
3. They do just literally "pop" off so make sure you hold them or they will fall
4. Apply even pressure away from the mirror body once you loosen it up. Grab the top and bottom and pull straight back. I would not recommend lifting one end off then prying open. That's likely to break a clip/tab.
5. Apply new ones much the same way they came off. Align the CF cap and press straight back with even pressure throughout. You'll feel the tabs/clips engage then press in around the perimeter to finish it off.

I started off by inserting nail cleaners all around the edges, which loosened the OEM cap. I gently went around and pried around the periphery. Once I got it loosened enough to get a firm grip with my fingertips, I held the top and bottom and pulled straight back in an even fashoin. "Pop" it goes and it's free. You can surely use trim removal plastic tools and achieve the same by gently prying around the periphery to loosen things up. I happen to have a bunch of these nail cleaners and they have a flat tapered soft end that was easy to insert without any damage to the parts. These cleaners also came in handy when prying off the hood vent from above. No need to come from under the hood and remove all those other rubber/plastic parts.

I hope this helps those out there and I sure wish someone had detailed instructions. Why the mystery around these caps? Mine are from Eurosport Design and they fit well.

GOLFFRR · 02-20-2011, 10:32 PM

thanks for posting the DIY. I think the mirror caps really set the car off nicely esp on white. looks great

Raptor251 · 02-21-2011, 12:10 AM

welcome to the club!

py0413 · 02-21-2011, 06:50 AM

my concern about that is those 2 pieces can be stolen within less than 30 sec if you know how to get them off. I thought about getting that real cf mirror but ended with the cheaper way just wrap it for cf looking

Maseroche · 02-21-2011, 07:27 AM

I'm on the fence with this mod but you're making me reconsider! It does look good.

nick3753 · 02-21-2011, 10:16 AM

How does the color match up with the roof? Is it the same shade or lighter?

Snow M3 · 02-21-2011, 10:29 AM

The color match seems good but it's been cloudy and I've kept it in the garage where the lighting is worse.
nick3753: They might be just a bit lighter but I don't know yet. I'll keep you updated.
py0413: As far as someone stealing them, you're right. If you know what you're doing, they can certainly swipe them fast. At least I have the MW OEMs still saved. I'm super careful about where I take my car and where I park it. I don't drive it much now but I valet whenever that's available and it's kept up front. I watch them park it. I can't glue them.

ki__ · 02-21-2011, 02:55 PM

looks good! take some further away shots!

Mahmood07 · 02-21-2011, 03:24 PM

Do you think that one would be able to remove them using a suction cup and just pulling back?

Snow M3 · 02-22-2011, 12:51 AM

The suction cup may work if you have one on top and one on the bottom. I must say that even pressure pulling back is the key. Also, loosening things up a bit with a trim tool of some sort will certainly ease the force needed to pop them off.

I got busy today but I will get better pics from all angles when I'm all done with my current mods and the weather allows. Front lip spoiler next. Will need help on that if any one knows how to put one on. Thanks!!

Stormtroooper · 03-19-2011, 06:43 AM

hmm, interesting... didn't think about this. The only way i've seen it done is removing the mirror then popping the tabs off form the inside. This seems easier.

mgifford6 · 03-20-2011, 11:09 AM

Go to 2:07 in the vid for the mirror replacement.

These are great install vids that I found for all the OEM Carbon Fiber Performance parts. Enjoy.

http://www.eurotuner.com/techarticle...ver/index.html

Here is the article that goes along with the install vids. You'll notice they used tape instead of glue on some parts which is due to the fact they had to return the car back to BMW after the article.

isugoo · 05-11-2011, 03:40 PM

I have a question.
BMW Performance mirror caps came with self adhesive black color form strips.
Where do I need to install that strips?

USCTrojanMan29 · 05-13-2011, 01:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Snow M3

I searched and searched for a detailed DIY with pics on how to switch mirror caps on the M3. It was very frustrating. Some said just pop it off while others had more complex approaches. Here's how I did it.

The dealer charged $906US ($200US of it for the installation) to get the OEM CF ones.

Things I learned:

1. It takes less than 10 minutes for both sides once you know how to do it. Probably less than 5 for an expert.
2. There are 4 clips/tabs that hold it to the mirror body and they are located toward the center of the cap
3. They do just literally "pop" off so make sure you hold them or they will fall
4. Apply even pressure away from the mirror body once you loosen it up. Grab the top and bottom and pull straight back. I would not recommend lifting one end off then prying open. That's likely to break a clip/tab.
5. Apply new ones much the same way they came off. Align the CF cap and press straight back with even pressure throughout. You'll feel the tabs/clips engage then press in around the perimeter to finish it off.

I started off by inserting nail cleaners all around the edges, which loosened the OEM cap. I gently went around and pried around the periphery. Once I got it loosened enough to get a firm grip with my fingertips, I held the top and bottom and pulled straight back in an even fashoin. "Pop" it goes and it's free. You can surely use trim removal plastic tools and achieve the same by gently prying around the periphery to loosen things up. I happen to have a bunch of these nail cleaners and they have a flat tapered soft end that was easy to insert without any damage to the parts. These cleaners also came in handy when prying off the hood vent from above. No need to come from under the hood and remove all those other rubber/plastic parts.

I hope this helps those out there and I sure wish someone had detailed instructions. Why the mystery around these caps? Mine are from Eurosport Design and they fit well.

How much does Eurosport charge for them?

rye m3 · 05-15-2011, 08:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by isugoo

I have a question.
BMW Performance mirror caps came with self adhesive black color form strips.
Where do I need to install that strips?

Check the Eurotuner video. I think the Eurotuner technique looks better. You take the mirror off first and then gently pry the clips from the inside to get the cap off. I think the trick is to buy the interior trim tools. I found they are sold by Griots Garage, probably others as well.

USCTrojanMan29 · 05-23-2011, 02:56 AM

Those guys at ED have some nice stuff...might pick up some nice CF goodies.

atyps · 07-09-2011, 03:11 AM

on jet black

Straight Dave · 07-14-2011, 01:03 PM

Thanks for the DIY, I am doing the same thing with the mirror caps but I'm ordering it with the m5 color scheme were it is only black from the bottom.

Alan292 · 05-15-2013, 03:05 PM

thanks for the guide!

Montana_M3 · 03-19-2014, 10:18 AM

Hi guys!

Figured i'd break the first rule of forums with my 'newbie' post here, sorry for reviving an oldie!

I just purchased a 2008 Coupe and am going to make the 900 mile journey from Missoula to pick it up on Saturday. The BMW dealer I bought it from said the CF Mirror panel is off of the car on the passenger side, but they do have a brand new one ready to go on - but they're waiting for the 'ring' to hold it in place? But once they get it from Europe (2 weeks or so) they'd get it to me and be an easy install (which this looks like it would be from this thread)

From what i've seen in this discussion I haven't noticed anyone speaking of this 'ring' ... any thoughts on what it could be?

Thanks in advance! I'm super stoked on the M3 - have had a 2011 STI Sedan but have wanted to make the jump for some time!

M3-S65 · 03-19-2014, 10:26 AM

I did this...

Done just as quick as video...I will admit your way is safer!

grantmax · 03-19-2014, 06:09 PM

Interesting install. Definitely one of the more detailed.

FYI - You can simply grab a hold of the mirror cap and pull. It will pop right off. Which reminds me, I need to steal @Edward's one of these days.

02-20-2011, 10:29 PM	#1
Snow M3 Enlisted Member 3 Rep 31 Posts Drives: 2011 M3 Coupe ZCT MW Join Date: Feb 2011 Location: Utah, USA iTrader: (0)	CF Mirror Replacement on M3 with Pics and Details I searched and searched for a detailed DIY with pics on how to switch mirror caps on the M3. It was very frustrating. Some said just pop it off while others had more complex approaches. Here's how I did it. The dealer charged $906US ($200US of it for the installation) to get the OEM CF ones. Things I learned: 1. It takes less than 10 minutes for both sides once you know how to do it. Probably less than 5 for an expert. 2. There are 4 clips/tabs that hold it to the mirror body and they are located toward the center of the cap 3. They do just literally "pop" off so make sure you hold them or they will fall 4. Apply even pressure away from the mirror body once you loosen it up. Grab the top and bottom and pull straight back. I would not recommend lifting one end off then prying open. That's likely to break a clip/tab. 5. Apply new ones much the same way they came off. Align the CF cap and press straight back with even pressure throughout. You'll feel the tabs/clips engage then press in around the perimeter to finish it off. I started off by inserting nail cleaners all around the edges, which loosened the OEM cap. I gently went around and pried around the periphery. Once I got it loosened enough to get a firm grip with my fingertips, I held the top and bottom and pulled straight back in an even fashoin. "Pop" it goes and it's free. You can surely use trim removal plastic tools and achieve the same by gently prying around the periphery to loosen things up. I happen to have a bunch of these nail cleaners and they have a flat tapered soft end that was easy to insert without any damage to the parts. These cleaners also came in handy when prying off the hood vent from above. No need to come from under the hood and remove all those other rubber/plastic parts. I hope this helps those out there and I sure wish someone had detailed instructions. Why the mystery around these caps? Mine are from Eurosport Design and they fit well. Attached Images __________________ SNOW M3 2011 M3 ZCT DCT MW Bamboo Mods: CF Rear Spoiler, CF Hood Vents, CF Reflectors, CF Mirrors, CF Front Lip Spoiler, CF Kidney Grilles, CF Steering Wheel Faceplate, CF eBrake Handle
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02-20-2011, 10:32 PM	#2
GOLFFRR 10802 Rep 27,595 Posts Drives: GOLFFRR cart Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: we sell BMWs to "ALL" US states iTrader: (4)	thanks for posting the DIY. I think the mirror caps really set the car off nicely esp on white. looks great __________________ BEFORE YOU BUY YOUR NEXT BMW, EMAIL OUR GUY KOTE FIRST! Kote M Sales:Kotem@bmwofcamarillo.com Cell:805-368-9101 vipfinance@bmwofcamarillo.com for warranties!
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02-21-2011, 12:10 AM	#3
Raptor251 ESS Dreaming 27 Rep 870 Posts Drives: 2011.5 e92 m3/Ford Raptor 6.2 Join Date: Jan 2011 Location: San Diego iTrader: (1)	welcome to the club! Attached Images
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02-21-2011, 06:50 AM	#4
py0413 Major 110 Rep 1,291 Posts Drives: Slow Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: BC iTrader: (2)	my concern about that is those 2 pieces can be stolen within less than 30 sec if you know how to get them off. I thought about getting that real cf mirror but ended with the cheaper way just wrap it for cf looking __________________ Must stop eating..............
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02-21-2011, 07:27 AM	#5
Maseroche Major 55 Rep 1,447 Posts Drives: '12 BMW M3 Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Bahrain iTrader: (0) Garage List 2012 BMW M3 [0.00]	I'm on the fence with this mod but you're making me reconsider! It does look good. __________________ Khalid '12 BMW E92 M3 '03 BMW E46 M3 '14 Mercedes-Benz S400 '18 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio
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02-21-2011, 10:16 AM	#6
nick3753 Major 1020 Rep 1,487 Posts Drives: 2012 e92 M3 DCT ZCP Join Date: Oct 2010 Location: Michigan iTrader: (0) Garage List 2017 Audi S6 [0.00] 1997 BMW 328i Touring [0.00] 2012 BMW M3 [0.00]	How does the color match up with the roof? Is it the same shade or lighter?
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02-21-2011, 10:29 AM	#7
Snow M3 Enlisted Member 3 Rep 31 Posts Drives: 2011 M3 Coupe ZCT MW Join Date: Feb 2011 Location: Utah, USA iTrader: (0)	The color match seems good but it's been cloudy and I've kept it in the garage where the lighting is worse. nick3753: They might be just a bit lighter but I don't know yet. I'll keep you updated. py0413: As far as someone stealing them, you're right. If you know what you're doing, they can certainly swipe them fast. At least I have the MW OEMs still saved. I'm super careful about where I take my car and where I park it. I don't drive it much now but I valet whenever that's available and it's kept up front. I watch them park it. I can't glue them. __________________ SNOW M3 2011 M3 ZCT DCT MW Bamboo Mods: CF Rear Spoiler, CF Hood Vents, CF Reflectors, CF Mirrors, CF Front Lip Spoiler, CF Kidney Grilles, CF Steering Wheel Faceplate, CF eBrake Handle
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02-21-2011, 02:55 PM	#8
ki__ Brigadier General 409 Rep 3,479 Posts Drives: 19 M2C 6MT Join Date: May 2008 Location: Los Angeles, CA iTrader: (6) Garage List 2019 BMW F87 M2C [0.00]	looks good! take some further away shots!
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02-21-2011, 03:24 PM	#9
Mahmood07 Captain 86 Rep 856 Posts Drives: E92 M3 + F85 X5M Join Date: Sep 2009 Location: Boston->San Diego->Bahrain iTrader: (0)	Do you think that one would be able to remove them using a suction cup and just pulling back? __________________ ///M3 Mods: \| Eisenmann Race Exhaust \| Primary Cats Delete (TTP) \| ESS Tune \| 19" Advan RS \| Eibach Springs \| MS Air Filter \| BMW Perf. Spoiler \| BMW Perf. Splitters \| Euro LCI Tail lights \| Angel iBright v.3.0 \| 20% Tint \| Matte black Kidney Grills \| CF Side Gills \| Painted Reflectors \| Black M3 emblem
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02-22-2011, 12:51 AM	#10
Snow M3 Enlisted Member 3 Rep 31 Posts Drives: 2011 M3 Coupe ZCT MW Join Date: Feb 2011 Location: Utah, USA iTrader: (0)	The suction cup may work if you have one on top and one on the bottom. I must say that even pressure pulling back is the key. Also, loosening things up a bit with a trim tool of some sort will certainly ease the force needed to pop them off. I got busy today but I will get better pics from all angles when I'm all done with my current mods and the weather allows. Front lip spoiler next. Will need help on that if any one knows how to put one on. Thanks!! __________________ SNOW M3 2011 M3 ZCT DCT MW Bamboo Mods: CF Rear Spoiler, CF Hood Vents, CF Reflectors, CF Mirrors, CF Front Lip Spoiler, CF Kidney Grilles, CF Steering Wheel Faceplate, CF eBrake Handle
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03-19-2011, 06:43 AM	#11
Stormtroooper The General 34 Rep 496 Posts Drives: 2018 M3CS Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: NJ iTrader: (2) Garage List 2011.5 M3 [10.00]	hmm, interesting... didn't think about this. The only way i've seen it done is removing the mirror then popping the tabs off form the inside. This seems easier. __________________ E92 M3 2011.5 AW / DCT / ZCV / ZP2 / Heated Seats (SOLD) 2018 M3CS
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03-20-2011, 11:09 AM	#12
mgifford6 Private First Class 16 Rep 138 Posts Drives: 2008 BMW M3 Sedan Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Cheyenne WY iTrader: (1)	Go to 2:07 in the vid for the mirror replacement. These are great install vids that I found for all the OEM Carbon Fiber Performance parts. Enjoy. http://www.eurotuner.com/techarticle...ver/index.html Here is the article that goes along with the install vids. You'll notice they used tape instead of glue on some parts which is due to the fact they had to return the car back to BMW after the article. Last edited by mgifford6; 05-06-2011 at 09:29 AM.. Reason: Edit spelling error
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05-11-2011, 03:40 PM	#13
isugoo Major General 247 Rep 6,125 Posts Drives: 991.2 GTS Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Irvine, CA iTrader: (73)	I have a question. BMW Performance mirror caps came with self adhesive black color form strips. Where do I need to install that strips? __________________ PAST: F80 M3 ZCP \| 911.1 C2S \| F10 M5 ZCP \| E70 X5M \| E90 M3 \| E46 M3 \| E36 M3
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05-23-2011, 02:56 AM	#16
USCTrojanMan29 Captain 34 Rep 898 Posts Drives: Purple People Eater Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Around iTrader: (2)	Those guys at ED have some nice stuff...might pick up some nice CF goodies.
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07-09-2011, 03:11 AM	#17
atyps New Member 3 Rep 23 Posts Drives: 2011 E92 M3 Jet Black Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: sac iTrader: (0)	on jet black Attached Images
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07-14-2011, 01:03 PM	#18
Straight Dave Lieutenant 27 Rep 444 Posts Drives: 2011.5 e92 m3 Join Date: Jun 2010 Location: Houston iTrader: (0)	Thanks for the DIY, I am doing the same thing with the mirror caps but I'm ordering it with the m5 color scheme were it is only black from the bottom.
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05-15-2013, 03:05 PM	#19
Alan292 Enlisted Member 0 Rep 41 Posts Drives: E90 M3 Join Date: May 2013 Location: Bay Area iTrader: (0)	thanks for the guide!
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03-19-2014, 10:18 AM	#20
Montana_M3 Registered 0 Rep 1 Posts Drives: 2008 M3 Coupe Join Date: Mar 2014 Location: Missoula, Montana iTrader: (0)	Mirror assembly 'ring' Hi guys! Figured i'd break the first rule of forums with my 'newbie' post here, sorry for reviving an oldie! I just purchased a 2008 Coupe and am going to make the 900 mile journey from Missoula to pick it up on Saturday. The BMW dealer I bought it from said the CF Mirror panel is off of the car on the passenger side, but they do have a brand new one ready to go on - but they're waiting for the 'ring' to hold it in place? But once they get it from Europe (2 weeks or so) they'd get it to me and be an easy install (which this looks like it would be from this thread) From what i've seen in this discussion I haven't noticed anyone speaking of this 'ring' ... any thoughts on what it could be? Thanks in advance! I'm super stoked on the M3 - have had a 2011 STI Sedan but have wanted to make the jump for some time!
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03-19-2014, 10:26 AM	#21
M3-S65 Banned 43 Rep 881 Posts Drives: M3 Join Date: Dec 2013 Location: USA iTrader: (6)	I did this... Done just as quick as video...I will admit your way is safer!
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03-19-2014, 06:09 PM	#22
grantmax Lieutenant Colonel 142 Rep 1,637 Posts Drives: 2011 M3 ZCP Join Date: Mar 2011 Location: LA iTrader: (1)	Interesting install. Definitely one of the more detailed. FYI - You can simply grab a hold of the mirror cap and pull. It will pop right off. Which reminds me, I need to steal @Edward's one of these days.
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