How to Turn Off the Auto-Folding Function of Rearview Mirrors?
3 Answers
Method to disable the auto-folding rearview mirror function: Access the system settings via the menu button on the steering wheel, locate the rearview mirror settings, and then turn off the auto-folding feature. Rearview mirrors can be categorized by installation location as follows: Interior Rearview Mirror: The interior rearview mirror allows the driver to check the rear situation without significantly altering their forward line of sight while driving. Exterior Rearview Mirrors: Passenger vehicles typically mount exterior rearview mirrors on the doors. In Japan, they are often installed on the fenders. Underview Mirror: The underview mirror enables the driver to see areas beyond the front and rear wheels beneath the car body through a mirror positioned directly in front of the driver's seat. This helps the driver spot people or obstacles near the wheels or the vehicle's sides when reversing or starting forward, preventing injuries, damage to objects, or harm to the vehicle.
I helped a friend with this issue last time and found that the operation varies significantly between different car models. The most straightforward method is to flip through the vehicle manual and check the corresponding section, but most cars have a physical switch: locate the mirror adjustment area on the driver's door panel, usually a button with a folding icon—press and hold it for 3 seconds to disable auto-folding. Some high-end models require navigating to the vehicle settings menu on the central display, then unchecking the auto-fold option under comfort features or door lock settings. There's also a lesser-known method—disconnecting the negative battery terminal for 5 minutes to reset the ECU, but this will clear the trip computer data, so proceed with caution. After making changes, I recommend testing the function by locking the car to ensure it works, preventing potential motor damage from forced folding when mirrors freeze after rain.
As a seasoned driver who has driven over a dozen cars, manually turning off this feature is actually not difficult. First, sit in the driver's seat and power on without starting the engine. Focus on the left door armrest area—look carefully near the circular button group that adjusts the mirror angle for an independent button marked with a car and folding arrow symbol. If found, press it repeatedly until the dashboard indicator disappears. For example, in my Volkswagen, you also need to hold down both left and right mirror selection buttons for 10 seconds to completely deactivate it. After making changes, remember to unfold the mirrors; otherwise, they might default to the folded position upon next startup. If the mirrors fold automatically while driving, don’t panic—just pull over, turn off the engine, and they will reset.
