Can Ordinary Rearview Mirrors Be Upgraded with Heating Function?
4 Answers
Ordinary rearview mirrors can be upgraded with heating function, but the wiring must comply with safety standards. The rearview mirror heating function refers to the ability of the mirror to be heated by electric heating wires embedded behind the lens during rainy, snowy, or foggy weather, ensuring a clear surface. For vehicles equipped with heated rearview mirrors, simply turning on the rear window defroster switch in winter will activate the heating function, quickly melting frost or ice on the mirrors, providing great convenience for drivers. The principle of electric heating mirrors involves installing an electric heating element inside the lens of both side mirrors. During rain or snow, when the heating function is activated, the heating element rapidly warms up to a fixed temperature (usually between 35 to 60 degrees Celsius) within minutes, effectively defogging and defrosting the mirror surface.
I think adding heating functionality to regular rearview mirrors is a quite feasible modification. I've tried it myself when working on cars - just buy a heating element kit, which costs only a few dozen yuan online and includes heating wires and connectors. The steps are: first remove the mirror glass, carefully attach the heating wires without breaking them, then connect to the vehicle's power supply (usually to the cigarette lighter fuse), and add a separate switch for easy control. The effect after modification is really good - no fogging on rainy days and much clearer visibility. But safety precautions are important: ensure secure wiring connections to prevent short circuits, which could cause small fires or circuit damage. I recommend DIY for those with strong hands-on skills, otherwise better pay for professional installation at a repair shop. This modification is cost-effective compared to replacing entire OEM heated mirrors, especially suitable for older car models. In short, adding heating function improves driving comfort and is worth trying.
From a safety perspective, adding heating functionality to regular rearview mirrors is feasible, but requires extra caution. I've encountered similar issues in daily driving - foggy mirrors during rainy weather pose safety risks, which led me to consider modifications. Installing heating elements requires opening the mirror casing for wiring, and improper handling may cause circuit overheating or electrical leakage, compromising driving safety. It's best not to attempt this yourself; consulting a professional technician is more reliable. They can use multimeters to test voltage and current compatibility with the vehicle system, preventing overload. Cost-wise, heating kits cost around a few dozen yuan, with installation fees bringing the total to about a hundred yuan - quite affordable. Regular inspection of modified connections is also important to prevent aging issues. Overall, this modification offers good practicality, especially for owners in humid regions, reducing wiping hassles and improving driving focus. Just avoid cheap, low-quality components - safety should always come first.
Economically, I've done the math, and adding heating functionality to regular rearview mirrors is a viable option. The price of heating kits ranges from 20 to 100 yuan, depending on the quality of the materials. Some basic tools like screwdrivers and electrical tape may be needed for the modification, and DIY can save on labor costs. If you're not confident, hiring a repair shop to install it will cost between 50 to 150 yuan in labor. The total cost is very low, saving hundreds compared to replacing with factory heated mirrors. Practically, heated rearview mirrors prevent fogging in winter or rainy weather, improving driving efficiency and reducing delays. Here's a little tip: after installation, set the temperature to a moderate level to save energy. It's a small investment with great returns.
