Upgrading Highlander rear view mirror

montfam · #1 (**permalink**) 03-01-2007, 11:24 AM

Has anyone upgraded the rear view mirror in a Highlander with side airbags?

We purchased a 2007 Highlander a couple of days ago. I want to upgrade to an auto dimming rear view mirror, with compass and temp display.

When I called to order it, the guy said that the manufacturer cautions about the possibility of the side airbag deploying during the installation of the mirror, because of how they have to route the wiring.

I am planning to have it professionally installed.

Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Carol Montgomery

drmonkey1313 · #2 (**permalink**) 03-02-2007, 04:36 PM

I do not have the HL with the side airbags, but I did upgrade my mirror to an auto dim with compas, temp, and LED maplights underneath.

If you have not ordered your mirror yet, let me know and I can pass along a very good contact where you can get a great Gentex mirror, new, for a good price. In addition, I have purcased 3 mirrors from this guy and he has given me great customer service every time. I highly recommend him.

Anyway, You may want to check on this, but I think if you disconnect the battery before installing it, then the bags should not deploy. I am not certain on that, so please check first. The install is very simple and if you tap into the power wire in your overhead map lights (there is constant power to them) then the only wire you have to run down the corner post is the temp gauge wire.

I hope that helped a little at least.

Good luck and enjoy your new mirror!

Qack · #3 (**permalink**) 03-08-2007, 02:59 PM

Dr. Monkey. I purchased an autodimming mirror off ebay and was wondering if you could give me some directions for wiring the unit.

How do you gain access above the headliner to get to the wires. I purchase a mirror that only has teh compass, so would think I only need to access the headliner for power to the mirror, and not anything in the side column.

What color wires do I need to attach to?

How do you take the mirror off? I found some directions on the interent but they didn't work.

Thanks in advance,

Qack

LifeTech · #4 (**permalink**) 03-08-2007, 09:30 PM

yu need a Torx head driver of proper size, then take out the set screw for the mirror.

I have the side air bags, O/E auto dimming mirror and the RSE pkg. The wiring does go down next to the right hand side pillar. Whenever yu work near or disconnect any air bag unit...ignition is OFF and battery IS always disconnected. It is standard service procedure. Only use a DVOM not a "test light" near air bags. According to the schematics of the overhead courtesy lamp console, there is a JB( Junction power Block to tap into).

LT

Qack · #5 (**permalink**) 03-14-2007, 10:45 AM

Thanks. Any idea how to gain access above the headliner without destroying it!

Thanks

Quote:

Originally Posted by LifeTech

yu need a Torx head driver of proper size, then take out the set screw for the mirror.

I have the side air bags, O/E auto dimming mirror and the RSE pkg. The wiring does go down next to the right hand side pillar. Whenever yu work near or disconnect any air bag unit...ignition is OFF and battery IS always disconnected. It is standard service procedure. Only use a DVOM not a "test light" near air bags. According to the schematics of the overhead courtesy lamp console, there is a JB( Junction power Block to tap into).

LT