How to Make a Ford Auto Dimming Mirror Darker

Some Ford vehicles are supplied with an interior rear-view mirror that dims automatically. The mirror includes electronic circuitry that changes the reflective state from a normal, highly reflective, mirror surface to a dimmed, darkened surface that reduces glare. Sensors are located at the front and back of the mirror.

Things You'll Need

  • Spare fuses
  • Pivot the rear-view mirror's support arm from side to side and up or down so that you have a good view of the rear window and the traffic behind you. Drive at night and observe vehicles behind you. As the vehicles approach the Ford, the rear-view mirror will darken as it detects the light from the vehicle's headlights. Glare will be minimized.

  • Check for obstructions on the sensors if the mirror doesn't become darker. Look for decals or hanging objects such as air fresheners or artifacts, and remove them. Change the fuse if the mirror still won't get darker. The fuse is in Position 5 in the interior fuse panel, which is located below the dash on Fords. It uses a 5-amp fuse.

  • Replace the mirror if it continues to fail to dim when vehicles are behind you. It's possible that harsh cleaning materials, petroleum-based cleaners, abrasives, fuel or other contaminants have permanently damaged the mirror. Avoid using such products.