Can electric mirrors not be folded manually?
2 Answers
Electric mirrors can be folded manually. However, since they contain motors and reduction gears, manual folding is not recommended as it may damage the gears, cause electric failure, or result in abnormal noises. If manual folding is necessary, it should be done gently to avoid damaging the electric mechanism of the mirror, which could lead to significant inconvenience. Here is some related information: 1. Mirror folding function: This refers to the ability of the side mirrors on both sides of the car to fold inward when needed, and it can be either manual or electric. This feature is particularly useful for roadside parking in big cities, as folding the mirrors saves considerable space and prevents the car from suffering 'broken ears'. 2. In mid-range and high-end cars, the mirrors are generally foldable. The folding function comes in two types: one is manual, where the driver must reach out the window or get out of the car to fold the mirrors, which is both inconvenient and unsafe. This type of folding mirror is now rare. The other type is electric, which is more common. Its advantage is that the driver can fold the mirrors from inside the car, and the mirrors will automatically unfold when the vehicle is started.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I've encountered quite a few issues with power mirrors. Generally speaking, power mirrors can indeed be folded manually, as they're designed with emergency situations in mind. However, don't just force them abruptly, because there are small motors and gears inside, and excessive force can easily jam or damage the components. From my experience, if the button malfunctions or you need to temporarily adjust the parking position, a gentle push will fold them. For daily use, it's best to operate them via the control panel buttons in the car to prolong the system's lifespan. If you frequently fold them manually, the motor might wear out prematurely, and repairs can cost anywhere from a few hundred to over a thousand yuan, which isn't cost-effective. Also, a quick reminder: be careful not to let others tamper with them during car washes or windy conditions, just keep them smooth and unobstructed.