Safety Glasses
Gloves
Rearview Mirror Adhesive
Rearview Mirror (If Needed)
Razor Blade
Dashboard Duster
Glass Cleaner
Microfiber Towel
If you don’t feel completely comfortable doing this yourself, we can refer you to a professional detailer in your area.
Step 1: Mark the outside of the windshield
Mark the outside of the windshield with a crayon to indicate exactly where the button was attached.
Step 2: Clean the glass and mounting button
Detach the mounting button from the mirror bracket.
Scrape the inside windshield glass and the mounting button thoroughly with a new razor blade in order to remove all the old glue. Always scrape in a direction away from you.
Scrape the inside windshield glass and the mounting button thoroughly with a new razor blade in order to remove all the old glue. Always scrape in a direction away from you.
|
Do It Right: Glass can be easily scratched, so keep the razor as close to parallel with the glass as possible. If the mirror is mounted in the dark strip at the top of the windshield, be especially careful. |
Step 3: Open the cleaner/activator towelette
Open the cleaner/activator towelette and clean the marked area on the inside of the windshield. Allow two minutes or wait until the area is completely dry. Do NOT touch the windshield after priming it with the towelette.
Step 4: Apply glue
Look at the mounting button and be absolutely certain about how it should be oriented when you attach it to the windshield. The round end will be at the top, and the flat side should be against the glass. You'll have only one chance to attach it the right way. Open the glue and apply just one drop to the center of the button. Too much glue can run and cause problems.
|
Do It Right: It’s a good idea to use scissors to cut off a corner of the glue packet. This will allow you to control the amount and direction of the glue. |
Step 5: Apply the button
IMMEDIATELY apply the button to the windshield, making sure the correct side is up, and hold it firmly in place for sixty seconds. Most products, including the glue we used for this demonstration, will recommend waiting 15-30 minutes for the glue to set, but some professionals recommend 24 hours just to be certain the glue is completely dry before mounting the mirror to the button.
|
Do It Right: If the button is mounted incorrectly, it’s best to bond another button onto the original one rather than trying to remove it from the glass. |
Step 6: Clean the outside of the windshield
While the button is drying, clean off the crayon from the outside of the windshield. Refer to our DIY How to Clean Your Vehicle’s Windshield Inside and Out
Step 7: Attach mirror bracket
Attach the mirror bracket to the mounting button.
The automotive repair work depicted in this series is performed under the direction of the manufacturer of the product featured. Prior to undertaking any of the demonstrated repairs on your vehicle, we suggest you consult with a certified mechanic or another professional who can adequately advise you of the proper repair or remedy required. O’Reilly Automotive Stores, Inc. and its affiliates (“O’Reilly”) disclaims any responsibility for injury or damage resulting from a viewer’s attempt to recreate the repairs shown in this series.