How to Turn on the Rearview Mirror Heating in BMW 530?
2 Answers
The rearview mirror heating function is not available on every vehicle, so you need to check if your vehicle is equipped with it. Before using the rearview mirror heating, make sure the vehicle is in the started state, or turn the key to the ON position to power on the vehicle before using the rearview mirror heating. Avoid confusing it with the front windshield defogger. The switch in the green circle is the front windshield defogger button, and the switch in the red circle is the rearview mirror heating button. In rainy or snowy weather, press the rearview mirror heating switch, and the indicator light on the button will illuminate. The heating element will quickly heat up to a fixed temperature within a few minutes.
After starting the vehicle, carefully locate the button on the climate control panel marked with a rectangle and several wavy lines—that's the rearview mirror heating switch. Press it to activate. Typically, it's integrated with the rear window defroster, so pressing it engages both functions simultaneously, which is an energy-efficient design that minimizes distraction. I've been driving a BMW 530 for over a decade and frequently use this feature during foggy winters—the heating elements quickly clear condensation, restoring mirror clarity within minutes. Note that this function usually activates automatically only in low temperatures; it may not respond in summer, so check if the external temperature sensor is functioning properly. The button is centrally positioned on the dashboard with good tactile feedback—avoid excessive force to prevent circuit damage. Keep mirrors clean and periodically inspect fuses to prevent failure due to aged or short-circuited wiring.
