Rain and light sensor retrofit question

[Bmwe5320023.0]

Thanks Overboost, I was actually reading your DIY just a couple of minutes ago!
I guess the first step is to replace the windshield.
I believe you said to use Saint Gobain Sekurit glass or Pilkington glass (whatever those mean).
I can ask for those (if the windshield guy will know what I mean).
I'm not sure if the windshields are vehicle specific? I.e. how do I make sure I get the right cutout for the rain light sensor on the new windshield?

Now my next step would be to get the following for the scrap yard:

- RLS module (which I now know what it looks like, so I can just remove it from any compatible bmw that has it, if I understand correctly)
- Connector for the RLS module
- Mirror cover

I'm.not sure if my mirror cover would accommodate the sensor?


Can I keep my mirror (I believe it has a compassion function based on the letters here)


Kept looking at found a wire that was taped to another wire, I got excited that maybe it was for the sensor!!


Ahhh, only 3 pins, not sure what it's for.

Almost gave up but decided to look all over again and I think I found the right one this time!


Now if this is the stock connector I'm golden I guess!

Just need to get a rain sensor now?

I was reading they're really complicated to remove, I.e. one guy was in another post he brought a torch to heat it up. In Canada torches are not allowed at scrap yards.

Should I just order one from ebay instead?
https://www.ebay.com/itm/293977025912
Then glue it with silicone to the new windshield and be done!

[Overboost]

That looks like the correct connector. I have found most everything on the E53 is prewired, even if the car left the factory without certain options.

I don't think you will have the results you are looking for using your current windshield. You need the diffuser prism plate that already comes on the St. Gobains RLS glass as @Clavurion posted. If you get the glass without it and try to glue one on, it rarely works properly if at all. The correct windshield is right at $300 installed so that should be the first thing to start with.

You can use your current mirror, you just need the outer housing to cover the RLS on the windshield.