Owners are often surprised when they price a new R107 sun visor. A plastic-covered visor that looks simple can cost far more than expected. Here is why, and what you can do about it.
Visor types by year
R107 sun visors changed over the long production run. Visors differ by year, market and options in shape, color, mounting and whether they have a mirror or a light. Colors were matched to the interior, so there are many versions. Check the part number for your car before buying.
The 560SL lighted visors
Later cars, including many 560SLs, have visors with a vanity mirror and a light. These visors include wiring through the mount and a small switch for the light. They are the most expensive versions, and the most complex to repair.
Why they are expensive
- Low volume: each color and type is made in small numbers.
- Many variations: color, side, mirror and light options multiply the part numbers.
- Age-related failures: the vinyl covering cracks and shrinks in sunlight, so demand is steady.
- Original-quality construction: padded covers and internal frames are labor-intensive.
Common problems
- Cracked or split vinyl covering
- Visors that will not stay up because of worn pivots
- Broken mirror covers or lights that do not work
- Faded colors
Repair options
- Recovering: an upholstery shop can recover a visor in matching vinyl. This keeps the original frame and mount.
- Pivot repair: a worn pivot can sometimes be tightened or repaired.
- Light repair: check the bulb, the switch and the wiring at the mount; see interior lights.
- Color restoration: vinyl dye can restore faded color.
Used parts
Used visors from R107 breakers can be a good source, but check condition carefully; many have the same cracks. Match the color and part number. See breaking R107s for spares and where to buy parts.
Prevention
Use a windshield sunshade and park in shade. Sunlight is the main enemy of the visor vinyl and the dashboard.
Quick answers
- Can I buy aftermarket visors? Some reproduction visors exist; quality and color match vary.
- Is recovering cheaper than new? Usually.
- Do visors fit all R107s? No; check by year and part number.
- Why does my visor light not work? Bulb, switch or wiring at the mount.
- Can a visor be recovered at home? It is possible with vinyl and adhesive, but an upholsterer gives a better result.
