Yes, folding your mirrors in a car wash is generally a good idea to prevent damage, especially in automatic washes. It’s a simple preventative step that can save you from potential costly repairs.
So, you’ve just gotten your first car, and you’re excited to keep it looking its best! One of the first things you might wonder about is how to wash it safely. You’re at the car wash, looking at all the spinning brushes and sprays, and a little voice in your head asks, “Do I need to fold my mirrors in?” It’s a common question, and honestly, it can feel a bit confusing when you’re new to this. Don’t worry, though! We’re here to break it down in a way that’s super easy to understand. We’ll walk you through why this might be important and what you should do to protect your car.
Why Folding Your Mirrors Might Be Necessary
When you’re heading to an automatic car wash, you’re trusting a machine to do the cleaning. These machines are designed to be effective, but they can also be quite forceful. Think about all those brushes, cloths, and high-pressure water jets that your car will encounter. While most car washes are safe, there’s always a small risk of something snagging or hitting parts of your car that stick out.
Your side mirrors are a perfect example of parts that can be vulnerable. They are designed to stick out to give you a clear view of what’s behind and beside you. In an automatic car wash, especially older or less well-maintained ones, these mirrors could potentially get bumped by spinning brushes or other equipment. This is particularly true if your mirrors aren’t designed to retract automatically or if the car wash’s sensors aren’t perfectly calibrated for your specific vehicle.
A gentle nudge might not seem like much, but repeated contact or a stronger bump could lead to:
- Cracked mirror casings: The plastic housing around your mirror could get scratched or even crack.
- Bent mirror arms: The part that connects the mirror to your car could be forced out of place.
- Dislodged mirrors: In a worst-case scenario, a mirror could be knocked completely off its mounting.
- Damage to the mirror glass: While less common, severe impacts could potentially affect the glass itself.
These kinds of damages aren’t just unsightly; they can also be expensive to repair. Replacing a side mirror assembly can cost anywhere from a couple of hundred dollars to over a thousand, depending on the car and the features (like heating or blind-spot monitoring) your mirrors have. So, a simple act like folding them in could be a smart way to avoid that hassle and expense.
When is Folding Your Mirrors Most Important?
The primary time you should seriously consider folding your mirrors is when using an automatic car wash. These are the car washes with the big brushes, spinning rollers, and high-pressure water jets that move around your car. They are designed to clean a wide variety of vehicles, but their automated nature means there’s less control over specific contact points.
Here’s a breakdown of car wash types and their mirror-folding relevance:
| Car Wash Type | Mirror Folding Recommended? | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Automatic (Friction) (Uses brushes, cloths, etc.) |
Yes, highly recommended. | Highest risk of physical contact from moving parts. |
| Automatic (Touchless) (Uses only water jets and chemicals) |
Generally no, but check your mirrors. | Lower risk of physical contact, but high-pressure water can sometimes affect loose mirrors. |
| Self-Service Bay (You use the provided spray wand) |
Generally no, but be mindful. | You control the spray. Be careful not to blast directly at the mirrors at close range. |
| Hand Wash (Professional) (Someone else washes your car by hand) |
Ask your detailer. | Professional detailers are usually careful. They might fold them for you if they deem it necessary. |
| Hand Wash (DIY) (You wash your car yourself at home) |
No, not necessary. | You have complete control and can avoid direct contact. |
So, if you’re driving into one of those tunnels with the big spinning brushes, it’s definitely time to consider tucking those mirrors in.
How to Fold Your Side Mirrors
The good news is that folding your side mirrors is usually a very simple process. Most modern cars are equipped with power-folding mirrors, meaning you can retract them with the push of a button. For cars without this feature, it might be a manual adjustment. Let’s cover both scenarios:
For Cars with Power-Folding Mirrors
If your car has power-folding mirrors, you’ll typically find a button or a switch inside the car, usually on the driver’s side door panel or near the window controls. This button often looks like a mirror symbol with an arrow indicating it folding inwards.
- Locate the Folding Button: Look on your driver’s side door panel. It might be near the window switches, mirror adjustment controls, or even on the dashboard.
- Press the Button: Once you find it, press it once. Both side mirrors should retract inwards towards the car.
- Confirm They are Folded: A quick glance in your rearview mirror or a quick look out the window will confirm they’ve folded in.
Pro Tip: Some cars have an auto-fold feature that activates when you lock the car. Check your car’s manual to see if this is an option for you!
For Cars with Manual-Folding Mirrors
If your car doesn’t have power-folding mirrors, you might have mirrors that can be folded manually. This usually involves gently pushing or pulling the mirror housing inwards or outwards.
- Locate the Mirror Housing: This is the part that holds the mirror glass and is attached to the car by a stalk or arm.
- Gently Push or Pull: Try to gently push the entire mirror assembly inwards, towards the car body. You might feel a slight click or resistance as it moves into a folded position.
- Check for a Lock: Some manual mirrors have a hinge that locks in place. You might need to push with a bit more force, but always be gentle. If it doesn’t seem to move easily, consult your car’s manual or a trusted mechanic.
- Unfolding: To unfold, simply pull the mirror outwards until it clicks or locks back into its normal position.
Important Note: Never force manual mirrors. If they don’t move easily, your car might not have this feature, or there might be an issue. Forcing them can cause significant damage.
What if My Car Doesn’t Have Folding Mirrors?
If your car’s mirrors are fixed and cannot be folded either manually or electronically, then you don’t have a choice but to leave them as they are. In this case, it’s even more important to choose your car wash wisely. Opt for touchless washes or hand washes where direct contact with brushes is minimized or eliminated. You can also try to find car washes that are known to be gentle or have adjustable brush speeds.
According to the American Automobile Association (AAA), while automatic car washes are generally safe, being aware of potential issues like this is part of good car care.
What About the Rearview Mirror?
When we talk about folding mirrors, we’re almost always referring to the side mirrors on the outside of your car. The rearview mirror, the one inside your car that lets you see out the back window, does not need to be folded. It’s protected by the car’s windows and isn’t exposed to the external cleaning equipment of a car wash.
So, focus your attention on those side mirrors! They are the ones that stick out and are most at risk.
Choosing the Right Car Wash
Your choice of car wash can also impact whether folding your mirrors is a critical step. As we saw in the table, automatic friction washes pose the most risk. If you’re unsure about your car’s mirrors or if they don’t fold, consider these alternatives:
- Touchless Car Washes: These use high-pressure water jets and specialized cleaning chemicals. They avoid physical contact with brushes, significantly reducing the risk of snagging or impact damage to your mirrors. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also highlights water conservation efforts at commercial car washes, which often employ more efficient systems.
- Self-Service Bays: These give you control. You can use the spray wand to clean your car, and you can choose to be extra gentle around the mirrors. Just be mindful of the pressure and distance.
- Hand Washing at Home: This is the safest option for your mirrors and your car’s paintwork, as you have complete control. It might take more time, but it’s a great way to bond with your new car and ensure a thorough, gentle clean. You can find many guides on proper hand-washing techniques from reputable sources like Consumer Reports.
If you must use an automatic friction wash and your mirrors don’t fold, consider watching how the car wash handles vehicles similar to yours. Some modern car washes have gentler brushes or more advanced sensor systems. However, when in doubt, folding them is the safest bet.
When Not to Worry (Too Much)
There are situations where folding your mirrors isn’t a major concern:
- Hand Washing at Home: As mentioned, you control the process.
- Self-Service Bays (with caution): You are in charge of the spray wand.
- Touchless Automatic Washes: No physical brushes mean no snagging risk.
- Your mirrors are designed to retract automatically: Many newer cars have this feature, often tied to locking the doors.
- Your mirrors are fixed and cannot be folded: In this case, you simply can’t fold them, so focus on choosing a gentler wash type.
Even in these cases, it’s always good practice to be aware of your car’s surroundings and the equipment being used.
Potential Downsides of Folding Mirrors
While generally recommended for automatic washes, there are very few downsides to folding your mirrors, but here are a couple to consider:
- Forgetting to Unfold Them: The biggest risk is forgetting to unfold them after the wash! This can severely impair your visibility and create a safety hazard when you start driving. Always do a quick check before you pull away.
- Manual Mirror Damage: If your mirrors are manual and you try to force them, you could damage the hinge mechanism. Always be gentle and consult your manual if unsure.
These are minor risks, and the potential damage from not folding them in an automatic wash is usually far greater.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: My car has automatic folding mirrors. Do I still need to press the button?
Answer: It depends on your car’s settings. Many cars with automatic folding mirrors have a feature that folds them when you lock the car. If this feature is active, you might not need to press the button separately. However, to be absolutely sure, especially if you’re unsure about your settings or if the car wash is particularly aggressive, it’s always safest to manually trigger the fold using the button before entering the wash. Always check your car’s owner’s manual for specific information on your vehicle’s auto-folding mirror functions.
Q2: What if my mirrors are stuck and won’t fold?
Answer: If your mirrors are stuck and won’t fold manually or automatically, do not force them. Forcing them can break the internal mechanism, leading to costly repairs. In this situation, avoid automatic car washes with brushes. Opt for a touchless car wash or a hand wash instead. If the mirrors are important for your driving, consider having them inspected by a mechanic.
Q3: Will folding my mirrors affect the car wash process?
Answer: No, folding your mirrors should not negatively affect the car wash process. In fact, it helps protect your vehicle. The car wash equipment is designed to clean the body of the car, and folded mirrors simply ensure that these parts are out of the way of any potentially damaging moving components like brushes or cloths.
Q4: My car is new. Do I still need to worry about folding my mirrors?
Answer: Yes, even new cars can benefit from this precaution. While newer vehicles often have more robust mirror designs, they are still susceptible to damage in aggressive automatic car washes. The technology in car washes varies, and a simple fold can prevent unexpected damage and repair costs, even on a brand-new car. It’s a small step for significant peace of mind.
Q5: What should I do if a car wash damages my mirror?
Answer: If you suspect damage occurred at a car wash, the first step is to stop driving and inspect your mirror immediately. If there is visible damage, you should take photos or video evidence of the damage and the car wash facility. Then, contact the car wash management to report the incident. Many car washes have insurance or policies to cover damages they cause. Keep your receipt from the car wash as proof of service. You can also consult consumer protection agencies or legal advice if the car wash is uncooperative.
Q6: Are there any car wash types where folding mirrors is definitely NOT needed?
Answer: You generally don’t need to fold your mirrors for hand washes (whether you do it yourself or have a professional do it), self-service bays where you control the spray, or touchless automatic car washes. These methods minimize or eliminate the risk of physical contact with the mirrors. However, it’s always wise to be observant and use your best judgment based on the specific equipment and environment.
The Final Check: Before You Drive Off
After your car has been washed and you’re back in the driver’s seat, there’s one crucial step: remember to unfold your mirrors! This is perhaps the most important part of the whole process. Driving without properly adjusted side mirrors is incredibly dangerous and can lead to accidents. Make it a habit to check both mirrors before you pull out of the car wash bay or parking spot.
If you folded them manually, carefully pull them back into their driving position until they click or feel secure. If you have power-folding mirrors, you might have a button to unfold them, or they might unfold automatically when you start the car or unlock it. Again, consult your car’s manual if you’re unsure.
A quick glance in your side mirrors as you drive away will confirm they are correctly positioned. This simple check ensures you not only protected your car during the wash but also maintained safe driving visibility afterward.
Conclusion: A Small Step for Big Protection
So, to answer the big question: Do I need to fold my mirrors in a car wash? For automatic car washes with brushes, the
