Can Ordinary Rearview Mirrors Be Upgraded with Heating Function?
2 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.
