Power-folding Mirrors

They reduce the risk of mirror damage in narrow streets and car parks. Many cars fold them when locking and unfold them when unlocking or starting. A button lets the driver fold them while parked. Some cars can be set to fold the mirrors only on request.

A small motor and gear set in the mirror base rotates the housing between its driving and folded positions.

Forcing a power mirror by hand can strip its gears; many have a clutch, but repeated forcing still causes wear. Ice can block folding in winter, so the heating should clear it first.