Why Can't the Car Rearview Mirror Open?
2 Answers
It may be due to the temperature being too low or dust entering the extension mechanism, increasing resistance and preventing the rearview mirror from opening. You can try manually assisting to see if it resolves the issue. Here are the specific reasons: Rearview Mirror Switch Damage: First, check the fuse of the rearview mirror folding circuit. If the fuse is intact, it is highly likely that the rearview mirror switch is damaged. Gear Mechanism Damage: You can ask someone to assist by operating the rearview mirror switch from inside the car while you place your hand on the rearview mirror to feel if the motor inside is working. If you feel the motor's vibration but the rearview mirror doesn't move, it indicates that the opening and closing gear mechanism is damaged.
I've encountered this issue several times. The sudden failure of the side mirrors to unfold is really frustrating. Starting with the simplest possibilities, it could be a blown fuse—just locate the corresponding number in the car's fuse box and replace it with a new one. Alternatively, the button switch might have poor contact due to accumulated dust or water seepage causing a short circuit, requiring cleaning. Another possibility is a burnt-out motor, especially in winter when repeated folding can cause problems. Wiring issues such as aged wires, exposed insulation, or loose connectors can also interrupt the current. For manual mirrors, common causes include stuck gears or insufficient lubrication. For safety reasons, it's best to drive to a repair shop promptly for a thorough check, using a multimeter for testing, to avoid compromising driving safety.
