BMW E46 Side Mirror Guide: Issues, Repair & More

The BMW E46 remains a beloved model, renowned for its sporty design and driving dynamics. However, like any car, the E46’s side mirrors are susceptible to wear and tear, damage, or defects that can impair their functionality.

In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about “E46 side mirrors,” from common problems and their solutions to useful tips for maintenance and care.

Common Problems with E46 Side Mirrors

Especially in older vehicles like the E46, side mirrors often encounter issues, including:

Defective Mirror Glass: Cracks, chips, or blind spots in the mirror glass significantly restrict visibility and pose a safety risk.
Wobbly or Loose Mirrors: Vibrations or loose mounts can cause the mirror to wobble while driving, providing a distorted view.
Faulty Mirror Adjustment: If the electric mirror adjustment no longer functions correctly, achieving the desired mirror position becomes impossible.
Damaged Mirror Housing: Scratches, dents, or even cracks in the housing not only detract from the aesthetics but can also limit the mirror’s functionality.

Repair or Replacement?

The decision to repair or replace the side mirror depends on the extent of the damage and individual requirements.

Minor damage to the mirror glass can be fixed with special repair kits. However, more significant damage or mechanical defects usually necessitate replacing the entire mirror.

DIY E46 Side Mirror Repair: How-To

With a bit of DIY skill, many repairs to the E46 side mirror can be carried out yourself.

Example: Replacing the Mirror Glass:

Removal of the Defective Glass: Carefully detach the defective mirror glass from the mirror housing.
Cleaning the Adhesive Surface: Thoroughly clean the adhesive surface on the mirror housing.
Installation of the New Mirror Glass: Attach the new mirror glass to the adhesive surface using special mirror adhesive.
Observe Drying Time: Adhere to the drying time specified by the adhesive manufacturer before using the mirror again.

Maintenance and Care of E46 Side Mirrors

Regular maintenance and care preserve the functionality and longevity of the side mirrors.

Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean mirror glass and housing from dirt, insects, and road salt.
Functionality Check: Periodically check the function of the mirror adjustment and mirror heating.
Lubrication of Joints: Regularly treat the joints of the mirror arms with a suitable lubricant.

Close-up on side mirror maintenance of a BMW E46

What to Consider When Buying New E46 Side Mirrors?

If you need new side mirrors for your E46, there are several points to consider:

Original Parts vs. Aftermarket: Original BMW parts guarantee optimal fit and quality but are usually more expensive than aftermarket parts.
Features: Pay attention to the desired features such as electric adjustment, heating, or indicator function.
Approval Marks: Look for approval marks such as the E-mark to ensure that the mirrors meet legal requirements.

New side mirror for a BMW E46

Conclusion

The side mirrors are an essential component of your BMW E46 and significantly contribute to road safety. Regular maintenance and care, as well as professional repair of damage, maintain the functionality and longevity of the mirrors.

If you have any questions or problems with your E46 side mirrors, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced car mechanic or a specialist workshop.

FAQ: E46 Side Mirrors

How much does a new side mirror for the BMW E46 cost? The cost of a new side mirror varies depending on the model, features, and manufacturer.
Can E46 side mirrors be retrofitted? Yes, it is possible to retrofit E46 side mirrors with additional functions such as electric adjustment or heating.
Where can I find the correct part number for my E46 side mirror? You can usually find the part number in your vehicle’s manual or online on BMW spare parts dealer websites.

Do you have further questions about “E46 side mirrors” or need support with the repair? Our experts at AutoRepairAid.com are here to help you with advice and assistance. Feel free to contact us through our website!