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Chrysler 300M: auto-dimming side view mirrors

17 messages,  Last post on Sep 14, 2012 at 6:21 PM

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What is this discussion about? Chrysler 300M, Exterior, Sedan

Messages Page 2 of 2

#8 of 17 Re: side view mirrors [telloman] by bruhnska

Mar 25, 2010 (6:52 am)

Replying to: telloman (Jan 14, 2008 10:29 am)
I have the '02 300 M Special. My driver side mirror (with glare reducing or whatever--it looks yellow) seems to be coming off or somehting. I do not feel a seam where some would have ripped off and if i push on my mirror, it looks like its liquid that may be leaking out because it can move, but does not re-adhere like cling wrap. Any ideas?

#9 of 17 Re: side view mirrors [bruhnska] by jim314

Oct 27, 2010 (2:01 pm)

Replying to: bruhnska (Mar 25, 2010 6:52 am)
A replacement self dimming mirror is outrageously expensive. Based on my experience with a 2001 Jeep the auto dimming side mirror is constructed by having an electro chromic substance between a regular heated mirror and a separate outer transparent pane. The electro chromic substance can discolor (probably due to water infilration) and obscure the mirror.
 
This is an old thread. If anyone wants to know, then I will explain my procedure for remedying this.

#10 of 17 Re: side view mirrors [jim314] by mr_b2

Mar 16, 2011 (7:36 pm)

Replying to: jim314 (Oct 27, 2010 2:01 pm)
yes, I am very interested to know what you did. One day I came outside to get in my car and the mirror was discolored. The glass is not broken but the mirror is discolored and hard to see out of.
 
Thanks,
 
Brad

#11 of 17 Re: side view mirrors [mr_b2] by jim314

Mar 16, 2011 (8:48 pm)

Replying to: mr_b2 (Mar 16, 2011 7:36 pm)

#12 of 17 Re: side view mirrors [jim314] by jim314

Mar 16, 2011 (8:59 pm)

Replying to: jim314 (Mar 16, 2011 8:48 pm)
I tried to edit my lengthy reply and wiped it out! Here it goes again.
 
My procedure is based on my experience with a relative's 2001 Jeep.
 
The photochromic layer is between a outer clear pane and and an inner regular heated mirror bonded to the plastic backing. The simplest solution is to remove the outer pane and carefully remove any residual photochromic material. You end up with a heated mirror which is not autodimming.
 
To do this turn the mirror all the way out and unplug the photochromic connection which will be seen to enter the bezel. Do not mix up this with the wire which powers the heating element to the back of the mirror.
 
Then separate and remove the bezel with a razor scraper, perhaps starting at the seam at the bottom, center. Then separate the outer pane by using a gentle stream of water and a razor scraper as a wedge between the two panes of glass. Carefully scape away any residual brown photochromic material from the front surface of the mirror. Do not use an abrasive pad, some contain embeded alumina particles which will scrape the front surface of the heated mirror and ruin it.

#13 of 17 Re: side view mirrors [jim314] by mr_b2

Mar 18, 2011 (4:16 pm)

Replying to: jim314 (Mar 16, 2011 8:59 pm)
Thanks Jim! I will try that this weekend. I am with you on the crazy price they have on a mirror replacement. Especially when the glass is not broken.
 
I will let you know how it turns out.
 
Brad

#15 of 17 fixing auto dimming mirror by ashok5

Sep 12, 2012 (5:35 pm)

Thanks for the tip, I followed these instructions and fixed my mirror. Just to add few points here:
 
1. The connector for dimming function is connected to the bezel and can be disconnected by titlting the mirror outwards.
2. To drain the photochromatic liquid, I used paper towel to wick it out, thereby reducing the chance to get it on the panels.
3. I fixed the bezel back using 100% silicon cauck, which will preven any water getting into the heating element area.
 
I really did not believe it would be so easy to fix the auto dimming mirror. Now I have all the features, i.e. heating, memory etc. and I don't care for the auto dimming any more.

#16 of 17 Re: fixing auto dimming mirror [ashok5] by jim314

Sep 12, 2012 (8:10 pm)

Replying to: ashok5 (Sep 12, 2012 5:35 pm)
I don't think it is necessary to reattach the bezel. The bezel was there to hold the outer clear pane to the inner heated mirror and keep water from getting into the photochromic layer between the panes. The electric heating element is sealed and cemented to the back of the heated mirror. Ordinary heated mirrors do not have a bezel.

#17 of 17 fixing auto dimming mirror by ashok5

Sep 14, 2012 (6:21 pm)

You are correct. However, I also re-attached the bezel as without it the mirror was looking odd. Atleast, now, the mirror looks like original.

Messages Page 2 of 2

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