E36 Side Mirrors - Motors Work, but stuill doesn't move

[emilminty]

Hi, new E36 owner. Slowly working through little issues with my well-loved (238,000 miles) 1993 325is. The power mirrors are not working (both sides). When the switched is pushed to the various positions (up, down, etc.), you can hear the motors working, but the mirrors still don't move. I opened up one of the mirrors and couldn't see anything obvious blocking the mechanism.

Does anyone have any experience or suggestions on this issue? Or just time to buy new motor assemblies?

Thanks.

[morzada]

There are some delicate plastic gear works in there that are most likely stripped out. Best bet is to find some donor mirror and switch out the mechanism. It is very easy to do.

All e36 mirror guts are interchangeable, so find the cheapest used you can find that still work and you are in business.

[emilminty]

Thanks. That makes sense. Appreciate the help.