Jeep Cherokee Forum

Jeep Cherokee 1984-2001: How to Replace Side Mirror

Here are a few tactics for getting your mirror mounted back in place and making sure it’s adjustable.

By Jon LeSage - August 26, 2015

This article applies to the Jeep Cherokee (1984-2001).

Losing a side mirror on your Jeep Cherokee can easily happen, such as backing out of a driveway and swiping a post. It could also have lost its ability to be adjusted. You’ll certainly need both mirrors in working order before you can safely drive. Start by identifying where the problem is located.

Materials Needed

  • Door panel removal tool
  • Allen head screwdriver
  • Torx wrench

Step 1 – Inspect the door panel

Begin by taking the door panel off and inspecting it from the inside. If it looks normal, take the outside screws out. You’ll need to pull the door panel apart to get to the mounting screws, and you’ll also find a set of screws holding the mirror adjuster in place. There will be several plastic push pins holding it on that you’ll need to remove to get to the mirror adjuster.

Pro Tip

There may be confusion about the panel. The Factory Service Manual (FSM) may not show that the interior trim panel and the interior mirror cover panel are both sections of one piece.

Figure 1. Take a look at the area around your broken mirror.

Step 2 – Adjust the cables

If you’re trying to reposition the mirror’s face but can’t get it to work, you might need to adjust the cables. You’ll find a tiny set of screws that can be adjusted with an Allen head screwdriver. You’ll need to loosen the screws to adjust the cables.

Figure 2. Allen head screwdrivers will need to be used to adjust the tiny set of screws controlling the cables.

Step 3 – Transfer mirror(s) over

You may be removing mirrors from another Cherokee and putting them on yours. To remove it, pull the interior panel off and unscrew three Torx head bolts with your wrench. Disconnect the cable and then pull the mirror off the Jeep. As for the cable, there’s usually a set of screws on the inside trim that keeps the adjuster in. Loosen the set and the adjustor should slide out; then you can remove the mirror and transfer all of it over to your Cherokee.

Pro Tip

There is normally a set screw on the inside trim that keeps the adjuster in. Loosen that screw; it'll slide out and you can go for the mirror.

Figure 3. You may want to bring in a mirror from another Jeep, or a new one such as this silver aftermarket mirror.

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