What Causes the Noise When Folding the Rearview Mirror?
4 Answers
Reasons for noise when folding the rearview mirror are as follows: Insufficient lubrication of the spring: The noise when folding the rearview mirror is generally caused by insufficient lubrication of the internal torsion spring. You can remove the rearview mirror cover, apply lubricant to both ends of the spring, and then manually fold and unfold the mirror to see if the noise disappears. Repeat the process of spraying, folding, and unfolding multiple times until the noise is eliminated. Poor sealing at the mirror transition area: If the noise is a rubbing, buzzing, hissing, or squeaking sound, it is likely due to issues with the sealing components at the mirror transition area. There are two common patterns for these noises: one occurs during hot summer weather, likely due to the expansion of the sealing components from heat combined with insufficient lubrication; the other occurs after rain or car washing, usually because the car is dirty, and rain or washing dislodges small debris that adheres to the mirror base and sealing components.
A squeaking sound when folding the side mirrors is quite common. With over a decade of driving experience, I often help friends troubleshoot such minor issues. The main causes may include insufficient lubrication: dust or dirt buildup on the pivot point causing friction noises, especially after rain or when parked under trees. Component aging could also be a factor, like brittle plastic or worn bearings producing squeaks; debris blockage such as small stones stuck in gaps is also frequent; for power-folding mirrors, motor malfunctions or wiring issues require extra attention. Try cleaning the pivot with a soft brush first, then spray some WD-40 lubricant. Choosing clean parking spots can prevent this. Though minor, these noises shouldn't be ignored – if folding fails, it could affect reversing safety. In severe cases, having a repair shop inspect it is more reliable.
As someone who frequently repairs cars, I've found that the causes of abnormal noise in folding mirrors often boil down to several factors. Lack of lubrication: Dry pivot points causing friction sounds; Component wear: Deformation or aging of plastic or metal parts; Contaminant interference: Accumulation of dust or sand particles; Electric component failure: Damage to the motor or control module. During inspection, manually fold the mirror to check for smooth operation—sometimes spraying lubricant or a simple cleaning does the trick. If that doesn't work, disassemble to check for cracks or foreign objects. For prevention, regular car washing to maintain cleanliness is key. Don't take safety lightly, as abnormal noises can escalate into complete failure—address the issue early to avoid risks.
I just started driving not long ago, and I was also worried when I heard noises from the folding rearview mirrors. After checking some information, common causes are excessive dust or insufficient lubrication leading to friction. Try cleaning the pivot with a cloth and adding some lubricant to see if it improves. If the noise is sharp or frequent, it might be due to component damage or issues with the electric motor. It's recommended to visit a professional shop for inspection rather than waiting for it to break. Regularly cleaning your car can help reduce faults. Safety comes first—don't ignore small issues.
