Can Electric Rearview Mirrors Be Damaged If Manually Folded?

[DeNaomi]

Electric rearview mirrors will not be damaged by manual folding. They are computer-controlled and automatically fold when the car is locked. Below are the functions of rearview mirrors: 1. Interior rearview mirror: Allows the driver to view the rear situation while driving forward; 2. Exterior rearview mirrors: Installed on the car doors, enabling clear visibility of vehicles behind; 3. Under-mirror: Helps the driver see areas beyond the front and rear wheels beneath the car body through the mirror directly in front of the driver's seat. Additional information: The adjustment method for rearview mirrors is to press the circular button near the door corresponding to the rearview mirror and adjust it up, down, left, or right as needed.

[PatrickAnn]

I'm a young person who drives frequently. Once, in a hurry at a parking lot, I tried to adjust the angle of the electric rearview mirror by hand. It made a clicking sound a few times and then stopped responding. Later, when I took it for repairs, I found out that the small motor and gears inside had been damaged. The mechanic explained that electric rearview mirrors operate with precision transmission mechanisms, and forcing them to move can cause plastic parts to break or the motor to overload and burn out. Since then, I've never manually adjusted them again and only use the buttons inside the car. I also remind car wash workers not to touch it, as replacing a rearview mirror unit can easily cost several hundred dollars. If you ever need to adjust the rearview mirror, it's best to turn off the power or let a professional handle it to avoid unnecessary trouble.

[DeSerenity]

I've been a seasoned professional in the auto repair business for many years, helping numerous car owners deal with broken power mirrors. These mirrors are intricately designed—never force them manually, or you risk damaging the internal motor and gear system. Common issues include misaligned gears or severed wiring, which can render the entire unit immobile. If you must adjust them by hand and encounter resistance, don't force it—immediately turn off the engine, cut the power, and check the fuse. But the best practice is to let the car automatically fold the mirrors when parking; don't cut corners. Regularly check if the mirrors move smoothly, and address any issues promptly to save big on repairs.