- Jeep Cherokee Push Button Start Not Working: Troubleshooting Tips To Get You Back on the Road Fast! - 11 November 2023
- Haval H2 Problems: The Complete Troubleshooting Guide - 11 November 2023
- Gwm P Series Problems: Troubleshooting Guide for Common Issues - 11 November 2023
To repair an electric side-view mirror of your car, you can replace the mirror glass yourself using precut glass mirrors that fit your vehicle’s make and model. This is a cost-effective and do-it-yourself project.
AutoZone offers high-quality replacement glass for your car’s windows and mirrors.
1. Understanding The Mirror Functions
When it comes to electric side-view mirrors, understanding how they function is essential for troubleshooting and repairing any issues. These mirrors are not just for vanity; they serve multiple purposes that provide convenience and safety on the road.
Overview Of The Different Functions Of An Electric Side-view Mirror
Electric side-view mirrors on cars come with various features that allow the driver to adjust the mirror position, fold them for parking or tight spaces, and even defrost them during cold weather. Here’s a breakdown of these functions:
- Mirror adjustment: The primary function of an electric side-view mirror is to provide adjustable angles for better visibility. By using the mirror control buttons inside the car, you can adjust the mirror horizontally, vertically, or both to suit your driving preference.
- Mirror folding: Electric side-view mirrors also come with a folding feature that allows you to tuck them inwards when parking or in tight spaces to avoid damage. Some newer car models have automatic folding mirrors that fold with a push of a button.
Explanation of mirror adjustment and folding features
Let’s take a closer look at these two essential functions of electric side-view mirrors:
Mirror adjustment:
The mirror adjustment feature enables you to modify the mirror’s horizontal and vertical positions to enhance your field of vision. Depending on your car’s make and model, the mirror control button can be located on the driver’s side door panel or the dashboard. By pressing these buttons, you can move the mirror in different directions until you achieve the desired angle.
It’s important to note that when adjusting the side-view mirror, you should be sitting in your usual driving position for accurate alignment. This ensures that you have a clear view of the surrounding traffic and eliminates blind spots.
Mirror folding:
The mirror folding feature is a useful addition that allows you to retract the side-view mirrors inward. This feature comes in handy when parking in narrow spaces or when passing through tight areas where there’s a risk of your mirrors getting hit.
On older car models, you may need to manually fold the mirrors by pushing them gently towards the car. However, on newer models, the car’s control system can operate the folding mechanism with a press of a button.
It’s important to take caution when manually folding the mirrors to avoid applying excessive force, which can damage the folding mechanism.
2. Troubleshooting The Mirror’s Movement
To troubleshoot the movement of your car’s electric side-view mirror, start by testing the mirror’s motor circuits. Remove the door panel to access the mirror connector location and test the vertical mirror movement. Check the power and ground connections and test the other circuit if necessary.
Fixing the mirror yourself can save you money compared to replacing the entire assembly.
Common Issues That Cause The Mirror Not To Move
If you’re experiencing problems with your electric side-view mirror, there are a few common issues that could be causing the mirror not to move. Understanding these issues will help you diagnose and fix the problem quickly. Here are a few possibilities to look out for:
- Motor failure: The motor is responsible for controlling the mirror’s movement. If the motor fails, it will prevent the mirror from moving.
- Electrical wiring issues: Faulty or damaged wiring can disrupt the power supply to the mirror, resulting in it not moving as intended.
- Faulty mirror switch: The switch that controls the mirror’s movement may be faulty or worn out, preventing the mirror from responding to your commands.
- Blown fuse: A blown fuse can cut off power to the mirror, causing it to stop functioning altogether.
Step-by-step Guide To Diagnose And Fix The Issue
Now that you have an idea of the potential problems causing your electric side-view mirror not to move, let’s walk through a step-by-step guide to diagnose and fix the issue:
Step 1: Remove the door panel
To access the mirror’s components, you’ll need to remove the door panel. Refer to your vehicle’s manual or online resources for specific instructions on how to remove the panel safely.
Step 2: Locate the mirror connector
Once the door panel is removed, locate the mirror connector. This is where the mirror connects to the electrical system of the car. It’s usually a small, rectangular plug. Inspect the connector for any visible signs of damage or corrosion.
Step 3: Test the mirror motor circuits
Using a multimeter, check the power and ground circuits of the mirror motor. Start by connecting the multimeter’s positive lead to the power wire of the mirror connector and the negative lead to a known good ground. Activate the mirror’s control switch to the desired direction (up, down, left, right) and check if voltage is present. This will help determine if there is a problem with the motor itself or if it’s receiving the necessary power.
Step 4: Test vertical mirror movement
If the motor circuits are functioning properly, test for vertical mirror movement. Connect the multimeter’s positive lead to the vertical motor wire of the mirror connector and the negative lead to a known good ground. Activate the mirror control switch to move the mirror up and down, checking for voltage. If there’s no voltage, there may be a problem with the switch or wiring.
Step 5: Test the other circuit
If the vertical mirror movement is working correctly, repeat the previous step for the horizontal movement. Connect the multimeter’s positive lead to the horizontal motor wire of the mirror connector and the negative lead to a known good ground. Activate the mirror control switch to move the mirror left and right, checking for voltage. If there’s no voltage, further investigation into the switch or wiring is required.
By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and identify the specific issue causing your electric side-view mirror not to move. Remember to consult your vehicle’s manual or seek professional assistance if needed. Once the problem is identified, you can take the necessary steps to fix it and restore full functionality to your mirror.
3. Removing The Door Panel
To repair an electric side-view mirror of your car, one of the steps is to carefully remove the door panel. This allows access to the mirror components for troubleshooting and repair.
Step-by-step Instructions To Remove The Door Panel Safely
Removing the door panel is an essential step in repairing an electric side-view mirror of your car. This process allows you to gain access to the internal components of the mirror, making it easier to diagnose and fix any issues. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to remove the door panel safely:- Prepare the necessary tools and materials:
Before starting, gather these tools to ensure a smooth and efficient process:
| Tools |
|---|
| – Screwdriver set – Trim removal tool – Torx bit set – Panel removal tool – Flashlight – Plastic bag or container for screws and fasteners |
- Disconnect the negative terminal of the car battery:
Ensuring your safety is paramount, so begin by disconnecting the negative terminal of the car battery to avoid any electrical mishaps.
- Locate and remove the screws and fasteners:
- Using a screwdriver or a torx bit, carefully remove any visible screws located around the door handle, armrest, and other areas where they may be present.
- Use a trim removal tool to gently pry off any plastic covers or caps that may be concealing additional screws.
- Place all screws and fasteners in a plastic bag or container to prevent losing them.
- Remove the door panel:
- Insert a panel removal tool between the door panel and the metal frame.
- Slowly and carefully work your way around the panel, gently prying it away from the frame.
- Be cautious of any hidden clips or connectors. If necessary, use the panel removal tool to release them.
- Once all clips and connectors have been disconnected, lift the door panel upward to remove it completely.
Congratulations! You have successfully removed the door panel, gaining access to the electric side-view mirror of your car. Now, you can proceed with repairing or replacing the mirror as needed.
Credit: www.amazon.com
4. Repairing The Mirror Motor
When it comes to repairing an electric side-view mirror, one of the key components you may need to address is the mirror motor. The mirror motor is responsible for controlling the movement of the mirror, allowing you to adjust it vertically and horizontally. If your mirror is not moving properly or gets stuck, it may be an issue with the motor. In this section, we will guide you through the process of repairing the mirror motor step by step.
Locating The Mirror Motor Connector
The first step in repairing the mirror motor is to locate the mirror motor connector. The connector is usually located inside the door panel, near the mirror assembly. To access the connector, you will need to remove the door panel. Refer to your car’s manual or search for specific instructions for your make and model to ensure you remove the door panel correctly.
Testing The Movement Of The Mirror Vertically
Once you have located the mirror motor connector, it’s time to test the movement of the mirror vertically. Connect a power source to the mirror motor and use a multimeter to check for power and ground connections. Apply power to the motor and observe if the mirror moves smoothly up and down. If the mirror does not move or moves erratically, there may be a circuit issue that needs to be fixed.
Fixing Any Circuit Issues
If you encounter circuit issues while testing the movement of the mirror vertically, it’s important to address them before proceeding. Inspect the wiring harness and connectors for any signs of damage, loose connections, or corrosion. Repair or replace any damaged components accordingly. Additionally, check the mirror switch to ensure it is functioning properly. If you find any circuit issues, fixing them should resolve the problem with the mirror motor.
In conclusion, repairing the mirror motor of your electric side-view mirror requires locating the mirror motor connector, testing the movement of the mirror vertically, and fixing any circuit issues that may be causing problems. By following these steps, you should be able to get your mirror motor working properly again.
5. Testing And Final Steps
After successfully repairing the electric side-view mirror of your car, it’s essential to thoroughly test its movement before reassembling the door panel. This will ensure that the repair was successful and that the mirror functions smoothly.
Testing The Mirror Movement After Repair
To test the mirror movement, follow these steps:
- Turn on the ignition and adjust the mirror controls to their default positions.
- Use the control panel to move the mirror up, down, left, and right. Pay close attention to any unusual sounds or resistance.
- If the mirror moves smoothly in all directions, then the repair was successful. Congratulations!
- However, if you notice any issues such as jerky movement or lack of response, you may need to revisit the repair process and identify any potential errors.
Properly Reassembling The Door Panel
Once you have tested the mirror movement, it’s time to reassemble the door panel. This step ensures that the mirror is securely in place and protected from external elements. Follow these steps:
- Carefully align the door panel and gently push it back into position.
- Reinsert all the screws and clips that were removed earlier, ensuring they are tightened securely.
- Check for any loose connections or damaged wiring while reassembling, as these can affect the mirror’s functionality.
- Once the door panel is securely in place, give it a firm but gentle push to ensure it is flush with the rest of the car’s interior.
Final Tips And Precautions For Maintaining The Electric Side-view Mirror
Maintaining your electric side-view mirror is crucial for its longevity and optimal performance. Here are some final tips and precautions:
- Regularly clean the mirror surface using a mild soap solution and a soft cloth to remove dirt, debris, and smudges that can obstruct your view.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the mirror’s coating.
- Protect the mirror from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight to prevent potential damage.
- Be cautious while parking in tight spaces or passing through narrow lanes to prevent accidental damage to the mirror.
- If you notice any unusual sounds, vibrations, or malfunctions in the mirror movement, seek professional assistance to diagnose and repair the issue promptly.
By following these final steps and precautions, you can ensure that your electric side-view mirror remains in excellent condition and provides you with a clear and safe view of the road ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions For How To Repair An Electric Side-view Mirror Of My Car
How Much Does It Cost To Replace An Electric Side Mirror?
The cost to replace an electric side mirror varies, but it is typically around $200 to $500. It is best to contact a professional mechanic or an authorized dealer for an accurate estimate based on your specific vehicle.
Can You Manually Move Electric Mirrors?
Yes, you can manually move electric mirrors. They can usually be pushed by hand, but be careful not to force them if they are completely stuck. Warm water might help loosen them, but make sure to dry them properly afterward.
Can I Fix My Side Mirror Myself?
Yes, you can fix your side mirror yourself. You don’t have to replace the entire assembly, just the mirror glass, which is usually inexpensive. Many manufacturers offer precut mirrors for different vehicle models. It is a simple do-it-yourself project that can save you money.
Will Autozone Replace My Side Mirror?
Yes, AutoZone can replace your side mirror with high-quality replacements in stock for your vehicle. Stay protected from the elements and ensure the safety of your windows by investing in their top-of-the-line brands and products.
How Much Does It Cost To Replace An Electric Side Mirror?
Replacing an electric side mirror can cost anywhere from $100 to $400, depending on the make and model of your car.
Can I Manually Move Electric Mirrors?
Electric mirrors can usually be manually moved by hand, but be cautious not to force it if it’s completely stuck. Warm water may help if it’s jammed.
Conclusion
Repairing an electric side-view mirror of your car can easily be done at home with the right tools and guidance. By following the step-by-step instructions provided in this blog post, you can save time and money on professional repairs. Remember to ensure the mirror is compatible with your vehicle and take the necessary precautions when working with electrical components.
By taking care of your side-view mirror, you can ensure clear visibility and maintain the safety of your vehicle.
