[dL.]

Hello all,

I don't know if mine is the only one doing this. On both mirrors when folding in, it is completely smooth and natural, albeit the passenger one folds faster than the driver one by a split second.

However, when folding back out, I notice both of them seem to have a small stutter/hesitation mid-way through folding out (driver side a bit more), especially when the car engine just started. There are no squeaks or abnormal noise however.

Anyone else notice this phenomenon? It doesn't really bother me but I am a bit worried about the long-term operation of this motor. I am hoping it is normal as both my mirrors do that (except the driver one hesitates more).

What are your thoughts? Thanks!

dL

[Frogman]

Nope, mine are very smooth folding and unfolding.

I'd have service take a look at them.

[giggity317]

My mirrors experience the same stuttering when opening and closing. At first I thought it was normal for the 3 series or something, maybe due to lower quality motors being used to cut cost as my 5 series didn't experience this.

It's not enough of a stutter for me to freak out, but I have noticed it. *cue X Files Music* I just wanted to let you know you're not alone.

[dL.]

It's not a huge stutter. You have to look closely to detect it so I agree with you, it's not enough for me to freak out but it concerns me for a car at this price range.

More thoughts are welcome! Especially those who have rectified this issue with the dealers already.

dL

[zeezz]

Yeah, mine stutters too. Also noticed that one finishes closing/opening faster than the other one. If it does break, hope it breaks within the warranty

[BavarianFanatic]

Mine do as well. Driver's side moreso than the passenger side.

[KevRyd]

Would it be worth adding a small amount of grease to the underside while the mirror is closed(Folded in)? Is it possible it is a little bit of friction?

Kevin

[bananachipz]

mine does that too..Makes a bit of a creaking sound as well

[Elk]

Originally Posted by KevRyd

Would it be worth adding a small amount of grease to the underside while the mirror is closed(Folded in)?

Perhaps. I suggest something very light, such as a silicone spray.

I assume everyone knows this, but stay away from WD-40.

[KevRyd]

Good point, would white lithium spray grease effect the surface material, if not then I would suggest it.

Kevin

Originally Posted by Elk

Perhaps. I suggest something very light, such as a silicone spray.

I assume everyone knows this, but stay away from WD-40.

[finaloption]

same here. mine makes a little creaking sound as well.. driver side... i assume it's just some debris in between causing the friction

[itwasepic]

Mine do and so does the 2013 328i loaner they gave me. It's normal.

[BavarianFanatic]

Originally Posted by KevRyd

Good point, would white lithium spray grease effect the surface material, if not then I would suggest it.

Kevin

While not as bad as WD40, it will still stay too gummy and attract/hold dirt. Dry silicone would be safest. But, I think the friction/noises you hear are actually internal. I don't think you'll be able to lube it sufficiently from the outside without some disassembly.

[KevRyd]

Then I defer, I would not want anyone to damage their cars!. I did notice that on my 328i loaner that the motor is not completel consistient with it's power delivery or there is more resistience in portions of the rotation.

Kevin

Originally Posted by BavarianFanatic

While not as bad as WD40, it will still stay too gummy and attract/hold dirt. Dry silicone would be safest. But, I think the friction/noises you hear are actually internal. I don't think you'll be able to lube it sufficiently from the outside without some disassembly.

[dL.]

Would anyone care to address this concern to service if you happen to drop by? Just want to hear their thoughts.

Or has anyone ever so far?

dL

[vern]

Originally Posted by Elk

I assume everyone knows this, but stay away from WD-40.

And why is that? I've used WD 40 on everything that I can think of without any ill effects.
cheers
vern

[Bimmerfestool]

Originally Posted by vern

And why it that? I've used WD 40 on everything that I can think of without any ill effects.
cheers
vern

WD means Water Displacement, its primary use is as a way to displace water from parts where you don't want water (rust), or to temporarily lubricate parts that are stuck together in order to separate them. It evaporates after a day and also breaks down whatever real long term lubricant you may have had before, leaving you with nothing to lubricate your parts.

If you use WD to displace water or separate parts you need to add your regular lubricant after drying the WD.

What confuses people about WD is that it really acts well as a lubricant for a short period of time after application, so they think it's a lubricant. Also WD marketing is misleading and dishonest about the product as well.

I still use WD on my wheelbarrow or when I need a quick temporary lubrication. For real lubrication I like "Super Grease" which is a light synthetic grease. It doesn't affect plastics unlike some lithium greases.

[CHCCubs]

I get this once in awhile as well and just assumed it was dirt/dust build up in the base or gear that turns the mirror. Noticed the folding mirrors on my old E90 did the same thing once in awhile as well.