Hello everyone,
I recently bought a 2004 Acura TL and I have encountered what seems to be a known problem with the inside rear-view mirror. There is a oval liquid bubble inside the mirror. I am looking to replace it but I can't for the love of me figure out how to take the mirror off. I have searched the forums and have only run into instructions for removing a 2nd gen rear-view mirror. Can anyone explain to me how to remove it or link me to something that can show me? Thank you for your time.

Hawaii808

 

That bubble is the dimming chemical.

I'd get that fixed as soon as possible before it could even explode all over your car interior.

Did you talk to the dealer about it?

The removal of the mirror is very similar to the 2G TL.

 

Thank you Guitar. I'll change it out ASAP. I heard the chemical eats plastic, yikes!

 

Hey man, no problem =)

The chemicals are also a health hazard supposedly too!

 

Thanks, the diagram was a big help...I found the instructions to remove the trim etc to get to the mirror in a video for a 3rd gen TL . Similar to 2gen but some differences. I suggest anyone trying this look at the diagram above and review the video below. Its a quick job once you figure it out. I am cautious/slow because I dont want to break anything the first time I do something like this.


This video talks you through it. He doesn't actually show the removal. Basically pop off the dome light covers by prying at the back(toward rear bumper) of the cover. I had to mess up the reflector a bit to get the reflector out. Only need to remove one of the dome covers. I popped off the right(passenger side) dome cover. I then removed the reflector part, then pulled the entire black portion of the plastic down(the two lights etc) as per the video guidance. Then remove the 4 x8mm bolts, pull the outer ring of plastic down and unplug the mirror plug. I left the rest of the plugs attached and let the plastic trim hang down. I had good access to the bolts etc. gently rock the mirror left and right and push the mirror forward parallel to the floor. I didnt need to use a rubber mallet. I think it would be safer to use a rubber mallet so you dont break anything in the base. Reinstall was reversal of disassembly. Good luck