How to Fold the Rearview Mirrors on an Older BMW 5 Series?

[StKevin]

BMW's automatic rearview mirror folding can be set by repeatedly pressing the left arrow button on the multifunction steering wheel. Release the button when the setup tab appears on the dashboard menu interface. After entering the setup interface by pressing the right steering wheel button, click on the setup option. Select the automatic folding option to complete the process.

[Reed]

I've been driving an older BMW 5 Series for several years, and manually folding the mirrors is the simplest method. Just stand outside the car door, grip the mirror housing (be careful not to press on the mirror glass), and gently push it toward the door until you hear a click, indicating it's folded in. If your car is equipped with electric folding mirrors (common in many 2005-2010 luxury models), locate the mirror adjustment knob on the driver's side door panel, turn the knob to the center position, and wait a few seconds for the mirrors to automatically retract. On rainy or icy days, never force them to fold, as this can damage the gears. By the way, holding down the lock button on the key fob can also trigger automatic folding, provided the system isn't malfunctioning. Older cars are prone to wiring issues, so if the electric function isn't responsive, manual folding is more reliable.

[VonPaislee]

As a frequent visitor to auto repair shops, I've noticed that the folding mechanism for older BMW 5 Series side mirrors depends on the configuration. Manual folding relies on physical operation—simply push the mirror housing inward by hand. The electric version requires more finesse: first, confirm the knob position—turn the mirror adjustment knob on the driver's door panel to the middle position, then hold it for about three seconds to activate the folding sequence. Models around 2007 may also feature automatic folding upon locking, which can be enabled through the vehicle settings on the center console. Important reminder: avoid forcing the mirrors to fold in sub-zero winter temperatures, as the gearbox can freeze and teeth may break. If you hear a creaking sound during folding, stop immediately—it's likely due to debris stuck in the gears. Owners of older BMWs should lubricate the pivot points monthly with a spray like WD-40 to prevent rust and seizing.

[StCharlie]

Just helped my neighbor with his 2007 525's side mirrors the other day. Manual folding is straightforward: use one hand to push the mirror housing toward the door until it sits flush with the car body. For power folding, the key is locating the correct knob—the circular one marked with L/R on the left door armrest. Rotate it to the vertical upward position to activate the folding function. His car has a slight delay in the power folding, taking about five to six seconds to respond. Also shared a handy tip: holding down the lock button on the key fob for three seconds while locking the car will simultaneously fold the mirrors and close the windows. However, with older vehicles, aging components may cause the mechanism to stop if it encounters resistance. In such cases, check the pivot for any tree sap or debris causing obstruction.

[MacDelilah]

Attention to old BMW owners about folding mirrors to avoid pitfalls! Manual operation involves pushing the mirror housing directly inward—it requires some force. For electric operation, turn the adjustment knob on the driver's door to the 12 o'clock position, being careful not to switch to the heating mode. Key reminders: Do not fold the mirrors during car washes, as high-pressure water jets can enter the pivot gaps and cause rust; if your car is bumped while parked, check for broken mirror glass before folding. Models after 2006 can enable an auto-folding feature via hidden settings. Older cars are prone to loose wiring connections—if electric folding fails, first check the 5A mirror fuse in the fuse box.

[HZoe]

Last week, I repaired a 2009 530's mirror folding malfunction. There are two standard methods: manually pushing the shell directly or electrically triggering it by adjusting the knob to the middle position. Older cars often suffer from insufficient gear lubrication, so it's recommended to apply grease to the pivot every six months. Pay attention to the details—when pushing the shell, press the edge with your thumb and avoid touching the mirror; after operating the electric knob, listen for the motor sound—if there's no response for over ten seconds, the motor might be burnt. The worst case I encountered was a owner forcing the frozen mirror to fold, resulting in shattered gears. After folding in the rain, remember to wipe off water stains to prevent rust. If the auto-folding feature upon locking fails, it's likely that the door module needs a reset.