Mirror Folding / Dipping issue

[mdubs9]

My mirrors are malfunctioning and it's a 2 pronged issue:

1. When attempting to fold, the mirrors will fold in then immediately unfold
2. When Reversing, the passenger side dips down, then back up, then down, continuously until I get out of reverse

What could be causing this? Is there a central computer module for both mirrors or do each have their own and need replacement?

Thanks

[tmv]

Originally Posted by mdubs9

My mirrors are malfunctioning and it's a 2 pronged issue:

1. When attempting to fold, the mirrors will fold in then immediately unfold <-the little metal clip came off the switch. Search forum for threads on folding mirrors
2. When Reversing, the passenger side dips down, then back up, then down, continuously until I get out of reverse <-when doing #1, give it a good cleaning: all the connectors and moving mechanism

What could be causing this? Is there a central computer module for both mirrors or do each have their own and need replacement?

Thanks

GL

[puddinboo]

when takeing the cover off the back of the mirror make sure you use a couple credit cards ,don`t use a metal screw driver ,good chance of brake the plastic clips on the cover.

[blktoptrvl]

Disconnect and clean the contacts in the mirror connection through the door, it will probably clear the dipping problem.

[mdubs9]

Thanks. Will do.

[Clockwork]

I'm in process of doing a write up on BOTH of these potential problem spots for the folding mirrors with a LOT of pics as I just tackled both of these jobs a few days ago. my limit switches have the metal clips on the black boxes but that is NOT solving the problem. I've cleaned everything you can see and even not see (as I've taken even the motors that fold the mirrors in/out and replaced with newer ones) and I believe the problem to lie with the white ring on top of the folding motor housing. the groves where the limit switch seem to need modifying. I slightly did to one and it made my problem less noticeable, but still did not solve perfectly. I have also documented the removal of the limit switch with nice pics. I'm going to attempt to fix my mirrors again.
As for the reverse dip feature, its an easy solution and is 100% not related to the folding mirrors problem. you just need to follow the DIY found on this forum (do a search for reverse dip feature fix) for cleaning the small square shaped mother boards for both rotational axis's. but be aware that its difficult to take the mirror backing plate off the ball socket without breaking the ball socket or axis arms. be gentle and make SURE the plastic is warm!!!!!
both jobs are easy.
removal of the plstic mirror exterior is best by starting at the bottom, and pulling lip of plastic towards the front of vehicle.

[Clockwork]

http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...ixed-pics.html

[Clockwork]

http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...d-writeup.html

my biggest recommendation/change to this is to remove the mirror's backing plate BEFORE you remove the 2 axis bracket (which houses the 2 chips you need to clean of grease) from the mirrors bracket. once its off, its harder to handle/do.

[TerminatorX5]

to remove the outside mirror cover get 3 old credit cards ready...

as you look at the mirror (left or right, doesn't matter), you will see a seam running on the inside of the shroud, where the two pieces of the outside cover meet... put your credit cards into that seam on the inside (not the outside seam) at the bottom, just below the glass and slide the cards into the seam crack, to cover the entire width of the "shelf"... the 3 cards will un-snap the three tabs and will allow you to pull the covers apart...

still, be carefull not to break those tabs...

[jsoto]

For me, on my unfolding issue, turns out the metal clip was missing.
I picked up a new switch with metal clip. Figuered, let me just pop in the new clip on the old switch. The *nub* holding it was so worn it would not hold it in place. I presume that's how the old clip went missing. I ended up cutting/splicing the new switch.