Sunglasses are an essential accessory for any car owner, not only do they protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays, but they also reduce glare and improve visibility while driving. However, having a functional sunglass holder in your car is just as important.
A broken or malfunctioning holder can make it difficult to keep your sunglasses safe and within easy reach. In this article, we will provide a detailed and comprehensive guide on how to fix a sunglass holder in your car.
Common Problems with Sunglass Holders in Cars
Sunglass holders in cars can experience a variety of problems, some of the most common include:
Broken or Loose Hinges:
The hinges on a sunglass holder are responsible for keeping the holder securely attached to the car’s dashboard or visor. If the hinges become loose or broken, the holder will not be able to stay in place and may even fall off.
Stuck or Jammed Mechanisms:
The mechanism that holds the sunglasses in place can become stuck or jammed, making it difficult to insert or remove sunglasses from the holder.
Loose or Missing Parts:
Over time, parts of the holder may become loose or may even be missing altogether. This can cause the holder to be unstable and may make it difficult to keep sunglasses securely in place.
Tools and Materials Needed for Repair
Before you begin the repair process, it’s important to have the right tools and materials on hand. The tools and materials you will need will depend on the specific problem you are trying to fix, but some common items include:
- Pliers: These can be used to adjust or tighten screws or other parts of the holder
- Screwdrivers: Depending on the type of holder, you may need a variety of screwdrivers to remove or replace parts
- Replacement Parts: If any parts of the holder are missing or broken, you will need to replace them before beginning the repair process.
With these tools and materials ready, we can now proceed to the step-by-step repair guide.
Step-by-Step Repair Guide
Inspect the holder:
Before you begin any repairs, it’s important to inspect the holder to identify the specific problem. Take note of any loose, broken, or missing parts, as well as any stuck or jammed mechanisms.
Fixing broken or loose hinges:
If the hinges on the holder are broken or loose, use pliers to adjust or tighten any screws or other parts that are holding the hinges in place. You may also need to replace any broken or missing parts.
Unjamming mechanisms:
If the mechanism that holds the sunglasses in place is stuck or jammed, use a screwdriver to remove any screws that are holding it in place. Once the mechanism is removed, clean any debris or dirt that may be causing it to become stuck. Reassemble the mechanism and make sure it moves smoothly before reattaching it to the holder.
Replacing missing or loose parts:
If any parts of the holder are missing or loose, use the appropriate screwdriver to remove any screws that are holding the holder together. Replace any missing or loose parts, and then reassemble the holder, making sure all parts are securely in place.
Testing the holder:
After making any repairs, it’s important to test the holder to ensure it is functioning properly. Insert and remove your sunglasses from the holder to make sure they fit securely and that the mechanism is working correctly.
Tips to prevent future problems:
Here are a few tips to prevent any future problems with your car’s sunglass holder:
- Regularly check the holder for any loose, broken, or missing parts
- Clean the holder regularly to prevent debris or dirt from causing the mechanism to become stuck
- Store your sunglasses in a protective case to prevent damage to the lenses or frame
Conclusion
A broken or malfunctioning sunglass holder can be a nuisance, but with the right tools and knowledge, it’s easy to fix. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can diagnose and fix common problems with sunglass holders in cars.
Remember to regularly check and maintain your holder to ensure it is functioning properly and to always store your sunglasses in a protective case. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please consult your car’s manual or contact a professional mechanic.
What type of replacement parts can I use for my sunglass holder?
It is recommended to use the original parts that come with the car or the holder. These parts are specifically designed to work with your car’s sunglass holder and will ensure a proper fit and function.
You can purchase replacement parts from the manufacturer or from an authorized dealer.
Can I fix a broken sunglass holder myself or should I take it to a professional?
If you are comfortable with basic tools and have some experience with DIY repairs, you should be able to fix a broken sunglass holder yourself by following the steps outlined in this guide.
However, if you are not comfortable with the repair process or if the problem is more complex, it is recommended to take it to a professional mechanic.
What should I do if the mechanism on my sunglass holder is stuck and I can’t remove my sunglass?
If the mechanism on your sunglass holder is stuck and you can’t remove your sunglasses, try to wiggle your sunglass gently back and forth while pulling it out.
If that doesn’t work, refer to the steps in the guide on how to unjam the mechanism. If the problem persists, it is best to take it to a professional.
Can I use the sunglass holder for any type of sunglasses or just specific types?
The sunglass holder is designed to hold standard sized sunglasses. Some holders may have adjustable mechanisms that can fit larger or smaller sunglasses.
However, some sunglasses that have oversized frames or unique shapes may not fit properly in the holder.
How often should I check and maintain my sunglass holder?
It is a good idea to check your sunglass holder regularly for any loose, broken or missing parts. Clean the holder regularly to prevent debris or dirt from causing the mechanism to become stuck.
It is also a good idea to have it checked during your regular car maintenance.