Fiat 500 Side Mirror (Spring Tension Sleeve)

A known problem with the Fiat 500: The side mirror wobbles or folds in uncontrollably. The cause is often the factory-installed die-cast sleeve in the joint mechanism. This oxidizes over time, develops cracks, and eventually breaks (see pictures of the original part).

Instead of replacing the complete, expensive side mirror, you can repair it with this part! This model replaces the broken metal sleeve that tensions the thick spring in the joint.

Important Print Settings: Since this part is permanently under the high tension of the mirror spring and exposed to high temperature fluctuations in the car, the correct print settings are essential:

• Material: It is mandatory to use ABS, ASA, or PC (No PLA or standard PETG, as these will soften in the car in summer or yield/creep under continuous load).
• walls (Wall Loops): At least 6 walls for maximum stability.
• Infill: 15%-25% (Gyroid or Cubic).

🔧 Assembly Instructions (Please note!):

1. The old mirror must be disassembled and the remnants of the old cast sleeve removed.
2. IMPORTANT: The electrical connector for mirror adjustment must be unpinned before assembly!
3. Only route the loose cables (without the plastic housing of the connector) cleanly through the new printed sleeve. If you try to force the entire connector through, you will destroy the printed part or the cables.
4. Insert the spring, slide on the printed sleeve, lock it under pressure (ideally by pressing down and rotating with an appropriate tool).
5. Pin the cables back into the connector housing and reassemble the mirror.

Good luck with the repair!