A Complete Guide to Choosing Automotive Brushed DC Motors

When it comes to modern vehicles, automotive brushed DC motors may be small, but they play a crucial role in numerous automotive applications. From effortless car rear-view mirror adjustment to precise HVAC actuators and reliable tailgate lock systems, these micro DC motors ensure comfort, convenience, and safety.

Why Choose Brushed DC Motors for Automotive Components?

Although brushless motors are becoming popular in EV powertrains, brushed DC motors still dominate in many automotive parts because they provide:

• Simple Design and Cost-Effectiveness – Ideal for automotive interior and exterior components.

• Fast Response & High Starting Torque – Perfect for applications like car door lock actuators and rear-view mirror motors.

• Compact Size – Fits easily into tight spaces such as mirror housings or HVAC systems.

• Easy Control – Speed and direction adjustments via simple circuits.

Common Automotive Applications:

• Rear-view mirror adjustment

• HVAC air conditioning actuators

• Power tailgate locks

• Power windows and seat adjustment

Key Factors When Selecting an Automotive Brushed DC Motor

1. Voltage Range

Most automotive systems use 12V DC motors (some use 24V). Motors should tolerate 9V–16V to handle battery fluctuations.

2. Torque and Power

• Car rear-view mirrors: Low torque for precision.

• Car tailgate locks: Requires a high torque DC motor for secure locking/unlocking.

3. Speed & Noise

• HVAC actuators: Smooth, quiet DC motors for passenger comfort.

• Locks & mirrors: Quick response without excessive noise.

4. Durability

• Brush life: ≥200,000 cycles (At rated life cycle mode)

• Temperature range: -40°C to +125°C

• Resistance to vibration and humidity

Recommended Lihua Motor Solutions for Automotive Applications

1. Rear-View Mirror Adjustment

Best Choice: FK-280 Series and FK-140 Series

• Example: micro FC-280/FK-280 12V electric DC motor for car rear view mirror

• Features: Compact size, precise positioning, reliable torque.

FC-280 Brushed DC Motor for Automotive	FK-280 12V DC motor for car rear view mirror

2. Automotive HVAC Actuators

Best Choice: RF-370 Series

• Designed for air conditioning actuators to control airflow direction and volume.

• Rated voltage: DC 12V, operating range: DC 9–16V for stable performance.

• Perfect DC motor for automotive HVAC actuator.

12V DC RK-370 Motor Worm Gear Shaft Electric Motors 4700RPM Car AV Actuator	Plastic worm metal worm 370 DC motor for automotive HVAC actuator

3. Car Tailgate Lock

Tailgate locks require strong torque to ensure reliable locking and unlocking.
Recommended Models:

• FC-140 Series

• FK/FC-260 Series

• FC/FK-280 Series

• RF/RK-370 Series
  All models operate on 12V DC, delivering high torque and long-lasting reliability.
  Perfect DC motor for car tailgate lock applications.

Round Electric Motor RE-140 High Speed for car tailgate lock	FC-260 brushed DC motor DC motor for car tailgate lock	FC-280 Central Door Lock Actuator Motor	RF/RK-370 DC motor for automotive HVAC actuator

Why Lihua Motor?

✔ 20+ Years of Experience in micro DC motor manufacturing
✔ Wide range:

• Voltage: 1V–36V

• Power: 0.05W–100W

• Diameter: 5.4mm–45mm
  ✔ Certifications: IATF 16949, ISO 9001, CE, ROHS, REACH
  ✔ Customization for torque, speed, shaft design, and brush type, assembly parts adding

Our automotive brushed DC motors are widely used in rear-view mirrors, HVAC actuators, car locks, power windows, and seat adjustment systems, offering quiet operation, high torque, and excellent durability.

Looking for the best 12V DC motor for car rear view mirrors, HVAC actuators, or tailgate locks?
Contact Lihua Motor for customized solutions, datasheets, and free technical support.