6 Causes Of Ford Power Folding Mirrors Not Working

Are your Ford’s power folding mirrors suddenly refusing to cooperate? You’re facing a common but fixable issue that affects many Ford owners. This guide walks you through every possible cause and solution, from simple fixes you can try right now to more complex repairs that might require some tools and patience.

The Main Causes of Ford Mirror Folding Problems

When your Ford’s power folding mirrors stop working, the culprit is typically one of these issues:

• Blown fuse – Often the simplest explanation and easiest fix
• Desynchronized mirrors – Happens frequently after manual folding
• Damaged wiring – Particularly at flex points between doors and mirrors
• Mechanical failures – Including stripped gears inside the mirror assembly
• Switch malfunction – When the control switch itself is faulty
• Control module issues – Especially after software modifications

Let’s tackle each of these problems one by one with specific steps for your Ford.

How to Check and Replace Fuses for Power Folding Mirrors

The first thing to check is always the fuse. Different Ford models place their mirror fuses in different locations:

To check your mirror fuse:

1. Locate your vehicle’s fuse box using your owner’s manual
2. Remove the fuse panel cover
3. Find the mirror fuse (use the diagram on the panel or manual)
4. Pull the fuse using the plastic fuse puller tool
5. Hold it up to light – if the metal filament is broken, the fuse is blown
6. Replace with a new fuse of the exact same amperage

If your new fuse blows immediately, you likely have a short circuit somewhere in the mirror wiring system that needs further investigation.

Resynchronizing Your Power Folding Mirrors

If your mirrors were manually folded or experienced a power interruption, they might simply need resynchronization. Here’s how to do it for most Ford vehicles:

1. Start with the ignition in the ON position
2. Press and hold the mirror fold button until both mirrors completely fold in
3. Continue holding until you hear a distinct clicking noise
4. Release the button and test normal operation
5. If it doesn’t work the first time, repeat the process several times

Remember, some Ford owners report needing 7-10 attempts before successful resynchronization. Be patient!

Ford Fiesta Specific Method:

Fiesta owners need to follow a slightly different process:

1. Fold mirrors out manually using the knob on the door
2. Turn on the radio
3. Press the menu button and select “Vehicle” settings
4. Look for the “Link to Lock” option
5. Ensure there’s a checkmark in the box and press OK

How to Troubleshoot Wiring Issues in Ford Power Mirrors

If fuse and synchronization checks didn’t solve your problem, wiring issues are the next likely culprit. The wires that run through your door hinges flex thousands of times, making them prone to damage.

Checking Door and Mirror Wiring Harness:

1. Remove the door panel (typically requires removing screws and plastic clips)
2. Locate the wiring harness connection to the mirror
3. Inspect the rubber boot where wires enter the mirror for cracks or damage
4. Check for any pinched, frayed or broken wires
5. Look carefully at connection points for corrosion or loose pins

Pay special attention to the wiring section where the door meets the frame, as this area experiences the most movement and stress.

Using a Multimeter to Find Electrical Problems:

If you have a multimeter, you can check for power at various connection points:

1. Set your multimeter to DC voltage
2. With the car in accessory mode, press the fold mirror button
3. Test for voltage at the mirror motor connections
4. If voltage is present but mirrors don’t move, the problem is the motor
5. If no voltage is present, trace back through the wiring to find where power stops

Mechanical Failures Inside the Mirror Assembly

Sometimes the issue isn’t electrical but mechanical. Ford power folding mirrors contain several small gears and motors that can fail over time.

Fixing Stripped Gears:

Many Ford models use plastic gears in the mirror folding mechanism that can strip or wear out:

1. Remove the mirror cover (typically requires careful prying)
2. Locate the folding motor and gear assembly
3. Check for stripped plastic gears
4. Consider upgrading to aftermarket metal replacement gears for better durability (companies like Gruven Parts sell these)

Dealing with Jammed Mechanisms:

Physical obstructions can prevent proper folding:

1. Disassemble the mirror housing carefully
2. Clean out any debris or buildup
3. Apply a small amount of lithium grease to moving parts
4. Reassemble and test operation

Switch and Control Module Troubleshooting

When both mirrors fail and you’ve ruled out fuses and wiring, the control switch or module may be at fault.

Testing the Mirror Control Switch:

1. Remove the switch panel from the driver’s door
2. Inspect for visible damage or corrosion
3. Check connector pins for proper seating
4. Test continuity across switch contacts with a multimeter when buttons are pressed

Software and Module Issues:

Some issues stem from the vehicle’s computer systems:

1. If you’ve made Forscan modifications, check the DDM (Driver Door Module) and PDM (Passenger Door Module) coding
2. Consider having a dealer run a diagnostic scan for trouble codes specifically related to the Body Control Module (BCM)
3. Some Ford vehicles need specific programming to enable certain mirror functions

Model-Specific Ford Mirror Troubleshooting

Different Ford models have unique characteristics regarding their power folding mirrors:

F-Series Trucks (F-150, F-250, F-350):

These trucks often experience:

• Stubborn synchronization issues requiring multiple attempts
• Problems with brass gears in the folding mechanism
• Complex electrical integration with multiple vehicle systems

Try this F-Series specific reset:

1. Start the vehicle
2. Turn off the “auto fold” feature in your vehicle settings
3. Manually cycle the mirrors using the switch
4. Re-enable the auto fold feature
5. Test the system after a complete vehicle power cycle

Ford Explorer and Expedition:

These SUVs have:

• A dedicated 7.5A fuse for mirror operation
• A specific resynchronization procedure
• Mirrors that may be affected by extreme weather conditions

Try this Explorer/Expedition specific trick:

1. Press and hold the folding mirror button
2. While holding, turn the ignition from OFF to ON
3. Continue holding for 10 seconds
4. Release and try normal operation

Ford Focus and Fiesta:

These compact models typically have:

• Combined fuses for multiple functions
• Different control mechanisms for folding
• Specific “link to lock” auto-folding features that need activation

One Focus owner found success by:

1. Removing the door panel
2. Disconnecting the battery
3. Cleaning all mirror connection points
4. Reconnecting and allowing the system to reset

Preventing Future Ford Mirror Problems

To avoid power folding mirror issues in the future:

• Avoid manual folding whenever possible
• During winter, clear ice or snow before activating mirrors
• Consider applying dielectric grease to electrical connections during repairs
• If replacing mirrors, use genuine Ford parts or ensure exact compatibility
• Keep door wiring harness boots and seals in good condition to prevent water damage

When Door Panel Removal Is Necessary

If your troubleshooting requires accessing the mirror wiring or motor:

1. Remove any trim pieces around door handles and panels
2. Locate and remove door panel screws (typically in door handle, armrest, and bottom edges)
3. Use a trim removal tool to carefully pry panel clips loose
4. Disconnect any electrical connectors as you remove the panel
5. Access the mirror wiring harness and connections
6. When reinstalling, ensure all clips align properly to prevent rattles

Testing Motor Function Directly

If you suspect the mirror motor itself:

1. Access the mirror’s electrical connections
2. Bypass the vehicle wiring by connecting 12V power directly to motor terminals (carefully!)
3. If the motor works with direct power, the issue is in the vehicle’s wiring or controls
4. If it still doesn’t work, the motor needs replacement

Following these troubleshooting steps should resolve most Ford power folding mirror issues. Start with the simple fixes like fuse checks and resynchronization before moving on to more complex repairs involving wiring or mechanical components.