Sideview Mirror Issue

[Theo113]

The insert mirror in the mirror frame has retracted into the frame.  The entire mirror/frame is in good condition with the exception of the reflective mirror itself.  Is there any way to correct this problem without buying an entirely new mirror frame?

[Pawel66]

I am not sure if I understand correctly...

The glass part of the mirror is held in essence by the plastic frame. It is also a bit spring loaded from the inside. Not sure how it could retract, but if it is held retracted by the plastic frame - those frames are available in many places, including MB dealers and are not very expensive. Just break the plastic if it is in the way and you cannot pry it gently out. There is also a water drain hole in the frame - you may try to insert a needle and try to push the glass out. Glass pieces are also easily available in many shops and at MB dealers. There are many posts about it here.

[Theo113]

Thank you Pawel,  I will look for other information here.  As I tried to explain this I was not sure I could do that well enough for it to be fully understood.  If this atttachment works perhaps that will help.

[Theo113]

Quite right there are circa. 100 posts on side-view mirrors. Thanks I will see what i can find there.

[Pawel66]

I see now...

Unfortunately there is no clear support in the middle behind the glass to create a pivot, so that if you push in on the other side, the stuck end would be pushed out...

Have you tried to squeeze gently the housing to free the glass by deforming the housing momentarily?

Try to do the above but inject some lubricant between the glass and the housing?

Or try to open it up a bit or spread it with your fingers?

[Theo113]

Thank you, I will give it a try.  I suppose the worst scenario is I will have to replace the entire side view mirror.

[GM]

How about something like this?
https://www.amazon.com/Aionep-pullers-Removal-Suction-Objects/dp/B08QM8Q2M4/ref=asc_df_B08QM8Q2M4/

[Pawel66]

Thank you, I will give it a try.  I suppose the worst scenario is I will have to replace the entire side view mirror.

Why? You probably need to replace the plastic retainers (would have to do it anyway) and if things go bad - the glass, why full mirror?

[Pawel66]

How about something like this?
https://www.amazon.com/Aionep-pullers-Removal-Suction-Objects/dp/B08QM8Q2M4/ref=asc_df_B08QM8Q2M4/

I think this is a brilliant idea! i would first try with a suction cap from a simple phone holder or dashcam holder. Or even you may have one in the kitchen or bathroom. Make it very wet so that you do not have to apply much force to make it stick to glass.

[Theo113]

Gary, Interesting option and certainly requiring a modest investment.  Good idea thank I will give it a try.

[Theo113]

Pawel,  I will try the suction method, thanks.  Quite right,  I would rather not replace the whole assembly. Nothing wrong with the appearance of the mirror other than it does not function for the drive as a side view.

[TJMart]

Theo113,

My 1970 280SL needed a replacement glass for the driver's side mirror because the prior owner had used sillicone to hold a piece of cut glass to the frame. I purchased a replacement mirror from Mercedes and it contained a large spring and a plastic frame around the tinted blue glass. The plastic frame will hold the glass that is pushed by the spring from "inside" the chromed mirror housing. Just push it in from one side until all the glass is within the housing and then release it until the plastic frame seats against the housing. The spring pushes the glass from behind to hold it in place.

See link: https://www.sls-hh-shop.de/main/en/mercedes-230-280sl-w113-81-mirrors-sunvisors-int-ext-eqmt-c-3_2869