M3 Autofold Mirror Retrofit & Installation

Finally decided to do the M3 Autofolding mirror retrofit on my E46. The autofold function will be installed in a car without memory/electric seats, no mirror tilting function on reverse and without the autofold option.

For this reason I had to either make, or find a module that would simulate the folding function of the OEM. With the help of a forum member I managed to find the module from www.innoparts.de. It's called SAM 1.0 and costs around 75 euros with delivery. It's a module that connects to the mirror switch, 2 mirrors, 12v constant and 12v switched. Comes with the wiring harness as well and an inline fuse. Nothing more nothing less. It can perform basic folding function with the touch of the mirror fold button and/or can fold mirrors on lock/unlock using the key. I have a garage so I don't need the mirrors to fold each time I park home so I decided to go the simple route; fold the mirrors only when I press the fold button on the mirror switch.

Parts List for the autofolding retrofit:

1. Genuine BMW Folding mirror switch. 50 Euros from dealership

2. SAM 1.0 Folding module from innoparts Germany. 75 Euros delivered

3. Folding M3 mirrors (can be done on standard mirrors as well). There are mirrors with 6 pins, 12 pins (electric/memory seats), and a ribbon style cable. Mine are a 6 pin version (simplest)

Here's the schematics:

SAM 1.0 wiring:

The actual module

Mirror box. Yes they are not OEM mirrors. I'm planning to install them, look how they look and then sell them. I have a pair of OEM M3 mirrors coming soon

Was a bit worried if they sent me a mirror with lamp and reflector, ala MB style.

Thank God no:

Metal plate with gasket: