Why does one side of the rearview mirror fold while the other doesn't?
3 Answers
The reason why one side of the rearview mirror folds while the other doesn't may be due to a malfunction in the power folding function of the rearview mirror. Types of rearview mirrors: 1. Interior rearview mirror: The interior rearview mirror is designed to allow the driver to confirm the rear view without significantly changing their forward line of sight. 2. Exterior rearview mirror: Passenger cars generally mount the exterior rearview mirrors on the doors. 3. Under-mirror: The under-mirror enables the driver to see areas beyond the front and rear wheels under the car body through the mirror directly in front of the driver's seat. This helps the driver detect whether there are people or obstacles near the front and rear wheels or beside the car when reversing or starting forward, thereby avoiding injury to people or damage to objects and the vehicle, providing convenience and safety to the driver.
One side of the power-folding mirror works normally while the other doesn't move. I've encountered this issue myself—it's likely a problem with the folding motor. For example, the left one might be faulty while the right still functions properly. Check for loose wiring or a blown fuse, as these are common causes. Sometimes, if the car is parked outside, branches or accidental bumps can cause the mirror to get stuck. Try restarting the car or manually pressing the folding button a few times to see if it resolves the issue. If not, take it to a professional repair shop instead of attempting DIY fixes to avoid damaging other components. The power-folding feature is crucial, especially for parking in tight spaces or avoiding scrapes. If it malfunctions, the asymmetry can affect visibility and safety while driving. Regularly clean the base of the mirrors to prevent dust from jamming the mechanical parts—these small details help reduce failures. In short, address such problems promptly—don't delay.
I often repair cars, and customers frequently complain that one side mirror can retract while the other remains stuck. Most of the time, it's an issue with the folding motor or control module. For new cars, it might be a factory defect; for older vehicles, mechanical wear is more common, such as damaged gears or loose screws. Sometimes, cold weather or dust buildup can cause one side to jam, requiring lubrication. It's best to try turning the car off and restarting it first, and also check the fuses in the fuse box to see if any are blown. If that doesn't work, have someone like me take a look—it saves money and gives peace of mind. If the mirrors don't fold properly, the asymmetry while driving increases blind spots and the risk of being scraped by other vehicles. It's advisable to develop a habit of checking before driving; taking a few seconds to confirm the folding function is working can prevent major issues.
