XSeries-forum

Drivers side is still folding but lots of slipping cog noise after you have completely switched off. If folded with the switch/button with ignition in accessory position maybe slips 2 teeth then when key turned off and removed it will start slipping for about 3/4 seconds. Then opens up fine when engine started again. So suspect either broken locating pin or cracked outer housing. Think I’ve got those bits in the garage if I can find them.

There were a few threads about mirrors back when there were loads of E53 owners on here. Several members had issues around 2010/11 from memory. Might be something useful there for you. There might even be a ‘repair kit’ - not from BMW obviously as they only want to sell complete mirror assemblies

Like this one: https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/112887684474 ... 6dvA%3D%3D

I’m reasonably familiar with how the mirrors work and all the gears and that inside I built these ones out of bits an pieces I had accumulated about 8 years ago. It’s just finding time as I’m up to my elbows doing stuff to the Alpina, plus it seems to be always raining.

It was neither of the two things you mentioned, a new set of gears at roughly £10 and sorted. They do get a lot of use because I have the Resler app which folds when switched off and on when started.

Glad you got it sorted. I rarely ever fold mine so not had issues.

My driver side doesn’t fold and the passenger side folds in but moves back out as soon as the key is removed.. Odd. One day I may repair them.

Broken location pin. Cracked motor housing. Micro switch. Dead motor. Internal gears stripped. Not overly difficult you can get the gears for £10 on eBay or complete kit for £35. I normally put 12v to the motor wires if it doesn’t work then swap them round if it still doesn’t work then motor is knackered. You can do that at the switch in the door. If you need the wire colours then let me know. Use a 9v torch battery. Once you fix the broken one the other one will work as it should. If you strip it all down make sure you paint mark the bits that come apart.