What to Do When the Car Rearview Mirror Becomes Loose?
2 Answers
Loose interior rearview mirrors are generally caused by hanging a dashcam or heavy decorations on the mirror. Solutions: If the looseness occurs at the windshield mounting point, use adhesive glue; if the ball joint of the mirror is loose, tighten the screw. Rearview mirrors can be divided into the following three types based on installation location: 1. Interior rearview mirror: The interior rearview mirror allows the driver to confirm the rear situation without significantly altering the forward line of sight while driving. 2. Exterior rearview mirror: Passenger cars usually mount exterior rearview mirrors on the doors. In Japan, they are also mounted on the fenders. 3. Under-mirror: The under-mirror enables the driver to see areas beyond the front and rear wheels beneath the car body through the mirror directly in front of the driver's seat. This helps the driver check for people or obstacles near the wheels and the car body when reversing or starting forward, preventing injuries, damage to objects, or vehicle harm.
My car's rearview mirror came loose once, and it kept shaking while driving, making it hard to see the cars behind me—almost causing an accident. After parking, I checked if the screws were loose. If it's a regular mirror, you can just tighten it with a wrench or socket tool. But if it's power-adjustable, be careful of potential internal motor issues. Tools are usually available in the garage; if not, use tape for a temporary fix, but don’t rely on it—get it properly repaired long-term. The loosening might be due to daily bumps or aging. Checking the mounting points during regular car washes can help prevent it. Safety first—if you can’t handle it yourself, go to a professional repair shop immediately; they can test its stability. Always ensure all mirrors are secure while driving to avoid distractions. Ignoring this issue is very dangerous and increases accident risks. Pay more attention to your car’s condition to extend part longevity.