How to replace BMW X5 E70 side view mirror

I have imported a 2009 E70 X5 from the states, and was annoyed by the US side view mirrors, that unlike our EU versions don't have blind angle reduction (the ones with the dotted black line partitioning off the outer fourth of the mirror).

I have scored a pair of blind angle reduced heated auto-dimming mirrors on eBay for less than 70 Euros.

Next, the puzzle was: how to replace the mirror without damaging the motor assembly inside. I had bad experiences with replacing mirrors on an E39 that have led to a whole new mirror assembly at the time. The problem being that there is no way to access the snap-on latches to pull them back.

The mirrors are connected with double sided adhesive to the plastic frame.

The solution for me was to pry the mirror off the plastic frame, first with a plastic card, then brute force with a flat head screwdriver. Upon even partial removal of the glass the frame becomes very flexible and the snap on latches come off easily. Only drawback: the old mirror will definitely not survive the operation.

Lastly disconnect cable (there is a latch to hold them together, use screwdriver again) and we have everything ready to put the new mirror in. After connecting the cable it snaps in real easily.

If there is a less destructive way, please let me know.