What is this thing called, and how do I remove its cover?

[TimberExpy]

Does anyone here know the proper name for this “module” that sits atop the rearview mirror? Or better yet, how I can safely remove its cover?

This is on my ‘22 timberline, and I’m trying to install a dash cam. A clean install would have me route wires behind it. There’s definitely an area where wires could be run (there is already a wire there for the mirror), but when attempting to Google how it’s safely removed, I don’t even know what to call it.

I presume it is secured with clips, but there seems to be a speaker, maybe a microphone, and some other sensor or “button” on the left side. Don’t wanna damage anything.

TIA

 

[khanhhuynh]

I am here because I have the same questions

 

[Alwaysthinkin]

On my 2020 that "cap" just pops off. As I remember you can remove it by just using your hands to pull down.
Not sure if wiring has changed but this thread was the one I used to wire my radar detector and others have used the mirror mount for dash cams.

Radar Detector Mirror Wiring

Anyone tapped into the wiring above the mirror to power a radar detector on a 2018 yet? I’ve got a mirror tap Ive used on previous vehicles, but my tester can’t get into the small plugs to be able to test for power and ground and I don’t want to risk blowing a fuse just guessing.

www.expeditionforum.com

 

[TimberExpy]

Well, I’m going to be removing it this evening…. I’ll let you folks know how it goes.

This seems to be how to do it, on the Maverick:

How To Remove Housing Cover On Ford Maverick Rear View Mirror

#fordmaverick #maverickhybrid #fordmaverickxlt #fordhybrid #maverickhybrid #maverickmirrorHow to remove the housing cover of the rear view mirror on the ford...

youtu.be

 

[Andy B]

Well, I’m going to be removing it this evening…. I’ll let you folks know how it goes.

This seems to be how to do it, on the Maverick:

How To Remove Housing Cover On Ford Maverick Rear View Mirror

#fordmaverick #maverickhybrid #fordmaverickxlt #fordhybrid #maverickhybrid #maverickmirrorHow to remove the housing cover of the rear view mirror on the ford...

youtu.be

Please consider taking pictures & notes.
Thanks.

 

[TimberExpy]

Welp, all done.

There are four clips, which I hope the photos show well. I used a relatively wide trim tool.

It seems that the far left and far right clips are the ones you have to pop out first, then the two center-most ones will follow when you pull it off.

Turns out that what appears like a speaker grill in the center is actually venting for the Windshield camera (lane departure assist?) and there are several wiring connections, some pass-through, for the passenger airbag indicator, the overhead controls for lighting/moonroof/etc, what I presume is the windshield rain sensor, the camera, and of course the auto-dimming mirror.

 

[GT350driver]

Where did you end up mounting the dash camera?

 

[TimberExpy]

The front camera is mounted behind the mirror; it is actually in the first photo above, you just can’t see it.

The rear camera was mounted at the top of the rear glass on the lift gate/hatch.

 

[bcook17]

Which wires did you end up using to connect your DashCam?

It got the cover off but unsure which wires to use for my radar detector.

 

[LegalBrief]

The only dash cam to get is FitCamX, integrates, looks OEM, has splitter built in. Instructions are ok, be careful pressing anything against the glass, it will pop/crack.

 

[TimberExpy]

Which wires did you end up using to connect your DashCam?

It got the cover off but unsure which wires to use for my radar detector.

I did not use any of the OEM wires there. For supplying power, I routed the power cord that came with my camera brand's hardwire kit underneath the headliner to the passenger side A column, down the A column (on the outside of the airbag), down the forward front-passenger door jamb, and into the interior fuse box that it by the from passenger kickplate.

I wouldn't try to use the wires that are there behind the review mirror.

 

[TimberExpy]

The only dash cam to get is FitCamX, integrates, looks OEM, has splitter built in. Instructions are ok, be careful pressing anything against the glass, it will pop/crack.

I agree that those FitCams look pretty slick but 1) I didn't see one listed explicitly for a '22 Expy, and 2) the camera I purchased was at the top of most reviewers' lists.... the FitCams were not mentioned, IIRC.

 

[LegalBrief]

@TimberExpy always look at F150 parts and FitCamX fits just perfect. They have two Ford versions, and you can send them a picture and they will confirm it’s the right one. Also available on Amazon

 

[dwalla7]

Welp, all done.

There are four clips, which I hope the photos show well. I used a relatively wide trim tool.

It seems that the far left and far right clips are the ones you have to pop out first, then the two center-most ones will follow when you pull it off.

Turns out that what appears like a speaker grill in the center is actually venting for the Windshield camera (lane departure assist?) and there are several wiring connections, some pass-through, for the passenger airbag indicator, the overhead controls for lighting/moonroof/etc, what I presume is the windshield rain sensor, the camera, and of course the auto-dimming mirror.

View attachment 79403View attachment 79404View attachment 79405View attachment 79406

This picture helped so much. I’m always hesitant pulling on plastic. Was trying to install a wire tap for radar detector!