Universal Motor Manufacturers for Car Mirror, Seat & Window

Introduction : Universal and DC motors play a critical role in modern automobiles by powering comfort and convenience features such as power windows, electrically adjustable mirrors, and power seats. These motors are typically compact, efficient, reliable, and designed for 12 V automotive electrical systems.

This page explores the leading manufacturers of universal (brushed DC) motors used in cars, their typical motor series, applications, and OEM usage, making it useful for automotive engineers, buyers, system integrators and aftermarket suppliers.

Understanding Universal Motors in Automotive Applications

In automotive terminology, the motors used for mirror, seat, and window control are generally:

  • Brushed DC motors (often loosely called “universal motors”)
  • Rated for 12 V DC
  • Integrated with gearboxes and actuators
  • Designed for high torque at low speed

They are not standalone consumer motors but automotive grade motors supplied by Tier-1 and Tier-2 manufacturers.

Key Automotive Applications of Universal Motors

  1. Power Window Control
  • Drives window regulator mechanisms
  • Requires high torque and durability
  • Typically used with worm gear or spur gear reduction
  1. Mirror Adjustment and Folding
  • Controls mirror glass movement (X/Y axis)
  • Powers mirror folding mechanisms
  • Compact size with precise control
  1. Power Seat Adjustment
  • Used for seat slide, recline, height and lumbar support
  • Requires higher torque and load handling
  • Often multiple motors per seat

Leading Manufacturers of Automotive Universal Motors

ManufacturerMotor part number /Description
Mabuchi MotorSF-130 / SF-136 (Mirror glass adjustment) ; FC-140 (Mirror and actuator motors); FC-280 (Door locks, mirrors, window actuators); RS-385 / RS-395(Power window and seat sub-actuators), Visit mabuchi-motor.com website for more information.
Mitsuba CorporationSupplies motor for Power windows, high torque dc motors for seat slide and recline, custom actuator motors for door systems etc. Visit mitsuba.co.jp website for more information.
Brose FahrzeugteileCompany suppliers motor + gearbox, sensor integrated assemblies, fully tested seat/window modules etc. Visit brose.com website for more information.
Johnson ElectricCompany is major supplier of brushed dc motors, integrated actuator motors, custom automotive motor designs etc. Visit johnsonelectric.com website for more information.
Nidec CorporationCompany supplies seat motors, HVAC actuators, window and mirror systems etc. Visit nidec.com website for more information.

Summary:

Universal (brushed DC) motors are essential components in modern automotive comfort systems. Leading manufacturers such as Mabuchi Motor, Mitsuba, Brose, Johnson Electric and Nidec supply millions of motors annually for mirror adjustment, power windows and seat control.