akinsm

After reviewing many postings, I would like to share my ‘fix’ for the over-rotation mirror issue common to my 2004 LS430. Both of my mirrors constantly opened all the way. Although my research took many hours, any mechanically inclined DIYer could make this repair in 15 minutes per mirror.

In summary, if you want fixed mirrors then remove the bottom mirror trim piece, cut the green wire and insert a screw. Just think “Snap, Snip, and Screw”.

The long version.

Givens based on everything I’ve read and discussed with the dealership:

• This is happening more frequently as described by this Service Bulletin EL0004-05
• I was well past my extended warranty which I assume applies to everyone reading this post
• Lexus doesn’t repair mirrors
• I did not want to disassemble the mirror assembly
• Both of my mirrors are dysfunctional, so I really didn’t want to spend $1500
• Used mirrors on Ebay, etc would eventually exhibit the same issue
• I don’t need the auto-folding feature and would be happy with ‘fixed’ mirrors
• Worst case, I buy two new mirrors
• Luckily I kept a previously broken LH mirror for practice and close-ups
• As a previous GM door Engineer, I was going to find a solution

1st, I tried the easiest solution (silicone lubricant), but didn’t work.

2nd, I tried unplugging the switch connector, but the mirrors still rotated when I started the car, as mikej65 explains. Now I couldn’t operate them.

3rd, I decided to follow mikej65’s instructions and cut the power. I removed the RH door trim panel, found the green wire and cut it per photo #1. I reattached the trim panel and confirmed that my mirror housing would not rotate after restarting the car. I also confirmed that all other power movements still worked properly, including reverse tilt down.

4th, I noticed that my suddenly flaccid mirror wouldn’t find a natural stop/detent to hold while driving, so I started playing with my old broken mirror. I decided to run a screw up into the mechanism to prevent any rotation. Good thing I didn’t have to worry about voiding a warranty.
Looking at the mirror from above (photo #2), I found the trim piece corner denoted with a circle. I forcefully pushed down/in to remove it. The longest barb (photo #3) broke off on both attempts. I tried gluing them back on but to no avail.

5th, much to my surprise, once I removed the trim piece, I could easily see the wire bundle. Practicing again on my scrap mirror, I sliced open the sleeve and fished for the green wire (photo #4). Since I had to open this area anyway to insert a screw, I decided that this method was much smarter to access/cut the green wire than removing the door trim panel.

6th, I decided to drill a 1/8” hole and insert a 1” galvanized screw near the light lens (photo #4). I had to apply more drilling force than expected due to a metal layer. Also, make sure that the screw head is small enough to fit past the trim flange. My reasons for this location were threefold, 1) the mirror had a nice cylindrical target, 2) it was furthest away from the door sheet metal to facilitate a drill, and 3) it was the furthest away from the pivot point to stop mirror rotation under wind force.

7th, I shaved off the nub (photo #5) that used my screw location and snapped it back into place without the broken barb.


I still love this ‘fix’ after a week of driving. I hope it helps someone because this took a while to document.

jstrummer

I don't have the issue you addressed, but I'm always grateful when people take the time to document their fixes and DIYs.

Thank you for your write-up. I appreciate it.

Gene01

Thanks, akinsm.
I suspect that there are two categories of LS430 owners:
1. Those that have this problem.
2. Those that will have this problem (if they keep their cars long enough).
Your great effort goes in my "keep" file. Good work!

freemurray

both of my mirrors wont work at all....they just flop around!! I wonder should I do this or repair....you cant just purchase like a motor or something? thank you for the write up its greAt

stemirra

Hi,

Here is a different fix for this over rotation of the outside side view rear view mirror issue. This one is easier, will make it look and work like new. It solves the same problem another way with much less butchery. I am" very" surprised that this fix has not gotten more attention on this form due to it's frequency of occurrence, outcome, ease or repair and cost.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls4...-05-cents.html

freemurray

Thank you..... Looks like a fix that works and the mirrors still function like they are suppose to .....thanks again

stemirra

Freemurray please advise how the 5 cent fix works when you complete it. Thanks


Posted from ClubLexus.com App for Android

karasdad

Dear Akinsm, thanks for the great job of describing the fix and the pics. I have the exact same problem with my 2004 LS430 driver mirror, drove me crazy to have to reach out the window and pull the mirror back into position each time I started, regardless of whether or not the folding switch was on or off. My mechanic messed with it for a long time but couldn't fix it so he disconnected the fold motor power. Mirror still adjusts but it slightly loosy goosey and gets knocked out of position when my kids hit it in the garage. The wind doesn't seem to bother it however. I did find some on eBay, incl one in my color so I think I am going to buy it and see how long it lasts. It amazes me that such a weak link can be in production so long.

karasdad

BTW, I had used a 8 inch plastic tie wrap and secured the mirror to the base and kept it from rotating out 180 degrees and it worked for several months until my mechanic fixed it. It wasn't as obvious as you might think and nobody ever noticed it and you can't see it from the driver's position.

amillion

Awesome! Now if i can get a fix for the mirror's memory position issue.

akinsm

karasdad, glad to hear this solved your problem too. The cut green wire stopped the rotation, and all my other functions still work after nearly a year. I chose the screw in step #6 to fixate mirror but sounds like a zip-tie worked for you. I didn't want to purchase another mirror because I assumed it would eventually fail.

drumscaleb

I have an 2001 LS430 that I realized last night I can rotate my passenger side mirror all the way around with an pressure. and that it flops up and down, as if there is a loose bolt... Will this fix the problem? Will this make the mirror locked in one position and never be able to rotate again...?

akinsm

drumscaleb, yes the screw in step #6 will stop rotation, but you should also cut the green power wire so the motor doesn't force it. I don't know about your flopping up/down issue.

Cosmiccool

I have an 01 LS430 on which both mirrors no longer fold and were doing the flop. My solution was to use double sided tape to hold them in place. It has worked for over a year and a half through car washes and all sorts of weather. An inexpensive fix that saves time and labor. When installed right, it is not noticeable. if knocked loose, I just press down on the mirror until the tape sticks again.

hlippy4

My mirror issue started yesterday.... took 5 minutes to loosen the door panel...cut the green wire... taped it and now is fine.... don't care about the folding... Perfect fix and thanks so much for posting!!