Mirror switch and rearview mirror for '94 SL500

[Boudreaux]

Hi Everyone,

I've reviewed the boards and can't find an answer of how to remove and replace the mirror switch on my car. I can only operate the rearview mirror but when the switch is turned left or right to move the respective mirrors it does nothing. I have found a salvaged switch and would like to replace it myself. Also the rearview mirror is shaky and the boards give two methods of removing the mirror. One is for pulling the mirror straight down, and another is to remove the lenses and then unscrewing some screws. Is the center console easy to remove and do I need any specials tools?

This car was really abused by the PO and I'm left with bringing it back to life.

Thanks in advance.

[tecqboy]

I believe that on a '94, the center wood console is one large piece. That's how it is on my '91, but they did change it at some point to 2 pieces. If it's the one piece style, getting it out without damage is a bit of a challenge. It is held down by 2 hidden clips on each side near the back, the shifter surround trim piece, the eye glass compartment, the radio, and finally, 2 hidden hooks at about the height of the climate controller. BTW, a new switch should be less than $25 and I'd recommend that route. Check with Fastlane; the guys who run this forum. So, remove the shifter trim by carefully prying it upward. As I recall, there are 3 screws holding in the eye glass compartment, remove the screws and then fold the compartment down and remove it. It's made to fold. Remove the radio, you'll need the special radio tools. They are cheap and available on ebay or Fastlane. The radio can be unplugged. Now very carefully lift from boths sides near the rear about 2 inches forward of the ashtray. It should pop loose. Then you need to lift / rotate forward while the top is still attached until the upper hooks rotate out of their slots. The switches all snap in and are easilly replaced. This is a very expensive piece of wood. Work slowly and carefully. Don't use sharp tools. Once you've done it one time, you'll see it isn't as bad as it sounds. Actually, you might be able to change out the switch without completely removing the console. It depends on how much extra wire they left on the switches. The switches plug in too. Good Luck.

[Boudreaux]

Thanks tecqboy,

I found the tools on eBay ($8.95 + shipping). This will be a weekend job for me. Also another item I found were the X-Pel headlamp/foglamp covers. I have them on my Volvo ($695 to replace lens) and don't want to experience the same sort of unwanted expense again.

Thanks again.