What is a power mirror switch and where is it located?
Most cars and trucks on the road today are equipped with power operated side view mirrors rather than manual or manual remote mirrors. Like manual side view mirrors, power mirrors allow you to look and see those "blind spot" areas behind and beside the vehicle, giving you more awareness of what is going on around you while you are driving, including the actions of other drivers. The difference with power mirrors over manual mirrors is that they can be adjusted to desired positions in order to achieve the proper angles for viewing right from the convenience of the driver’s seat, as opposed to having to stick a hand out of the window to do that.
So, now you are probably wondering how those power mirrors are able to adjust magically like that. Well, power mirrors use internal electrical motors to adjust the position of the glass, which the driver controls with the power mirror switch. This switch is located on the driver side door panel armrest, center console, or dash depending on the vehicle. Typically, the power mirror switch has four buttons (up, down, left, and right) with a driver side/passenger side selector switch, but this can vary depending on the vehicle as well. Some applications have a separate memory switch which may also control power seat positions.
How do I know my power mirror switch needs to be replaced?
Power mirror switches can fail over time due to general use and age. Excess moisture from leaving your car or truck’s windows open may also cause the switch to become defective. Some symptoms of a bad power mirror switch include intermittent operation or, no operation of the mirror from the switch at all. If this is the case, you will not be able to adjust your power mirrors automatically. While you still can adjust them manually, this eliminates the ease and convenience of being able to do that from the comfort of your seat by simply using a switch.
Can I replace the power mirror switch myself?
The power mirror switch is fairly easy to replace and can be done by the the novice do-it yourselfer. The repair may entail the removal of the door panel to access the switch harness, but in a lot of vehicles the switch can simply be pried out with a flat blade screwdriver and then disconnected from the mirror switch wiring harness.
Need a Replacement Power Mirror Switch?
Since the mirror switch is the only part that can start the process of moving your power mirrors and they won’t adjust automatically without a properly functioning switch, it’s important that it is in tip top shape. If it’s not, you’ll have to adjust the mirrors manually which is a bit inconvenient when you are driving your vehicle at higher speeds – and slightly dangerous - as well as when it happens to be raining or snowing out.
If you are in need of an aftermarket replacement mirror switch, then you have come to the right place. At 1A Auto, we carry a large selection of aftermarket power mirror control switches for many makes and models. We also make shopping for a replacement for your car, truck, SUV or van easy - we're here to help you select the right one for your vehicle! Call our customer service toll free at 888-844-3393 if you have any questions about our window switches, warranty, compatibility or to purchase, or you can buy online. Order a power mirror switch replacement from 1A Auto today and get your power mirrors moving automatically once again!
