colnick

Just a final note. Thanks Tom and Denks. Everything went pretty much as you predicted although I found the re-installation a bit fiddly on the slopey M3 windscreen. Mirror's as tight as a drum in the mount though. Total cost

$A 210 versus BMW quote of $A 1380 !!!

Thanks for the prompt response. The twist certainly seems logical and I am reassured by your repeated success. I'm too far away to take up your kind offer of help but I'll have a go myself with confidence

Use the twist method - you won't damage anything (that's how you put them back on).

Perplexing why the instructions provides the jolt method as you are more likely to damage other stuff doing it that method.

If you are in Auckland more than happy to help you take this off and remount - it's very easy to do and I've done this numerous times.

The auto dimming mirror in my 2003 M3 has given up the ghost. I understand this is a common problem. I am in the process of purchasing a replacement through Sybesmas in the USA. I recall that back in May there were a couple of very useful posts relating to removing the old mirror. If memory serves me right one post suggested removing the mirror by twisting counter clockwise in the mount but the instructions on the web link say " on no account twist the mirror in the mount as this may result in permanent damage to the mount." They advise a sort of forearm jolt with the ball of the thumb to release the mirror. Any comments/suggestions?( The mirror is oval, auto dimming with rain sensor.)

The auto dimming mirror in my 2003 M3 has given up the ghost. I understand this is a common problem. I am in the process of purchasing a replacement through Sybesmas in the USA. I recall that back in May there were a couple of very useful posts relating to removing the old mirror. If memory serves me right one post suggested removing the mirror by twisting counter clockwise in the mount but the instructions on the web link say " on no account twist the mirror in the mount as this may result in permanent damage to the mount." They advise a sort of forearm jolt with the ball of the thumb to release the mirror. Any comments/suggestions?( The mirror is oval, auto dimming with rain sensor.)