Don't know how many of you have had an issue with the auto dim rear view mirror leaking but mine did and just an FYI, got it repaired at Sybesma's Electronics. They did a great job, $79.00 for a refurb swap or $95.00 to repair yours. A whole lot cheaper than the $480.00 the dealer wanted.
Yes sir, they leak and it's toxic! Mercury and other assorted acids. When it leaked it ate away a bit of my center console around the SMG shifter, will need replacing when we get back from our trip.
OMG! Glad the console was the only casualty and not you. Definitely sounds like a defect in workmanship. Wonder if the dealer would give you a goodwill replacement on your console. Mercury and acid are serious stuff.
Tried both the dealer and mfg who is Magna Donnelly out of Holland, MI, no luck. If it was a newer ride maybe so, even though the 02 has only 34k on the clock still no go.