Passenger side mirror issue?

Tiny
JONSOLOW13
  • MEMBER
  • 2012 VOLKSWAGEN CC
  • 2.0L
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 160,000 MILES
We are a detail shop and two days ago detailed the 2012 VW CC inside and out. During the exterior wash phase the passenger side mirror glass literally fell off of the backing and broke on the concrete floor.

The owner is a very mentally disturbed woman who is blaming use even though we did nothing wrong (the backing plate is completely clean, no sign of adhesive and the same on the back of the mirror glass we pieced and taped together). It is our policy to stand behind our work and accept responsibility.

I'm not yet sure if the mirror is heated or not, and won't know until tomorrow when the woman will hopefully bring the car back in. However, I just got a call from her (twice on a Sunday after reassuring her we would be calling her in the morning) saying both mirrors are not operating from the controls at the driver's side panel.

We only used a hose to rinse off the soap, including after the mirror glass fell off. Could the water somehow have shorted out the electric motors?

Any ideas on how to trouble shoot without taking it to VW?

Thanks for any ideas.

Jon
Sunday, October 8th, 2023 AT 5:23 PM

6 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
Hi,

If that would have damaged them, wouldn't rain do the same thing? I don't understand how washing a vehicle would have caused this, but it isn't me you need to persuade.

As far as diagnostics, I attached the wiring schematic below for the power mirrors. Also, I suspect they will be heated, but I can't confirm it.

If there was a short, it should have caused a fuse to fail. There are two fuses in the fuse box that you should check first, fuse 12 and fuse 44. They are located in fuse box C at the left end of the dash. When you check them, make sure to also confirm there is power to them.

Here is a link you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-check-a-car-fuse

Start with that first and let me know the results.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Sunday, October 8th, 2023 AT 6:42 PM
Tiny
JONSOLOW13
  • MEMBER
  • 133 POSTS
First, I want a big shout out to such a prompt response, really appreciate it!

Next, we will keep you updated on this thread until it's resolved one way or the other.

Finally, we will make a donation- you are doing a great service to those of us amateurs who need automotive help.

Many thanks,

Jon
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Sunday, October 8th, 2023 AT 8:58 PM
Tiny
JONSOLOW13
  • MEMBER
  • 133 POSTS
Forgot to ask- how to make a financial contribution?

Jon
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Sunday, October 8th, 2023 AT 9:02 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
Jon,

First, you are very welcome. A financial contribution isn't required by any means. If you want, we have a go fund me page. Here is the link.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-us-help-others-get-back-on-the-road

I'm anxious to hear what you found. Let me know.

Joe
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Monday, October 9th, 2023 AT 2:38 PM
Tiny
JONSOLOW13
  • MEMBER
  • 133 POSTS
Final Update, customer was a total nut job, liar, mentally disturbed. Took advantage of us and forces me to have a services agreement form with a damage disclaimer signed by each customer from now on.
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Tuesday, October 10th, 2023 AT 5:59 PM
Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 109,885 POSTS
Hi,

Being in business opens us up to all kinds of issues. Based on your last response, it sounds like things didn't go well. Regardless, hang in there. The good will always outweigh the bad. It just may not feel that way at times. Just be an honest person with integrity and character. That info will spread, and you will become very busy.

Take care of yourself and feel free to come back anytime in the future. I'll be here to help if I can.

Joe
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Tuesday, October 10th, 2023 AT 7:30 PM

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