Driver's side mirror replacement

[Tesla1]

Hello to all. I have a 2001 X5 that leaked the oil out of the driver's side mirror and is now concave. I talked to the dealer and was told that I had to replace the whole housing. I found a replacement mirror housing on ebay for half the price but the cost to switch out at the dealer is outrageous. I saw one thread that stated that the housing is able to be disassembled but am I able to replace the mirror itself or do I need to replace the whole housing? If so, how do I go about getting the door panel off? I searched and tried to look at the folding mirror retrofit but the link directs me to a blank page. Thank you for any ideas.

[IFlyX5]

You can take the mirror apart and replace most parts (cover, mirror glass, puddle lamps -- don't think your MY01 has them, etc.) , but if you are replacing the mirror motor, you will have to remove the door panel in order to access the wiring harness.

It's pretty easy and straightforward.

[Tesla1]

Thanks for the reply, I am pretty hesitant about breaking everything. Is there a way to avoid breaking everything?

[IFlyX5]

Then let the dealer do it. They'll be responsible for any breaking

[Tesla1]

For $1000 I will pass. I just need to figure out how to get the mirror itself off.