What are the reasons for the failure of the power-folding function of the rearview mirror?
3 Answers
Common reasons for the failure of the power-folding function of the exterior rearview mirror are as follows: 1. The battery is disconnected or dead: The exterior rearview mirror must be reset to function properly. The specific reset method is to manually operate the folding button. 2. Manual folding: The next time the vehicle is unlocked, the exterior rearview mirror will not automatically unfold. You need to enter the vehicle and press the button on the door to manually unfold the exterior rearview mirror. 3. Other reasons: Focus should be placed on checking mechanical and electronic control issues. Additional information: The purpose of the power-folding rearview mirror is that, as the widest component installed on the vehicle, it is most susceptible to impact in the event of a collision. To minimize scratches, the rearview mirror needs to have a folding function.
I've also encountered the sudden failure of the power-folding side mirror function several times. At first, I thought the button was broken—pressing it several times with no response made me quite anxious. Later, I found that the most common issue is a blown fuse, especially in older cars or those with frequent folding, as excessive current can easily cause it to melt. The fuse is located in the fuse box under the driver's seat, and replacing it with a new one costing just a few dollars solves the problem. If that's not the cause, it might be worn switch contacts or loose wiring, such as dust or moisture entering the connector near the door, leading to poor contact. In extreme cases, the motor may be burnt out, which is more expensive to repair. I recommend folding the mirrors less often when parking, especially on rainy days, to reduce the risk of failure. If you can troubleshoot it yourself, start by checking the fuse to avoid the hassle of visiting a repair shop.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I believe that power-folding mirror failures are mainly caused by a few common issues. A blown fuse is the most straightforward problem—just replace it and it's fixed. A faulty switch means the button won't respond when pressed. Aging wiring harnesses or loose connectors can also interrupt signals. Once, my mirrors failed while reversing at night, nearly scraping the curb, which was a safety hazard. My advice: if you notice a malfunction, pull over immediately and manually adjust the mirrors as a temporary fix. Don't delay repairs, as rainwater can corrode components faster. Professional shops can use diagnostic tools to read fault codes and identify control module issues. During maintenance, regularly clean dirt around the mirror base to prevent jamming. Always check before driving—small issues can escalate quickly if ignored.
