What Does the Rearview Mirror Defrost Switch Symbol Look Like?
2 Answers
The rearview mirror defrost switch symbol is a rectangle containing three upward-curving arrows. Generally, it just needs to be distinguishable from the front windshield defogger button, which has a fan-shaped symbol. In fact, although the location of the rearview mirror heating switch varies across different car models, their symbols are basically the same. Structure and Principle of Rearview Mirrors: Rearview mirrors involve a concept called the field of view, which refers to the range that the mirror surface can reflect. The industry refers to three key elements of the field of view: the distance between the driver's eyes and the rearview mirror, the size of the rearview mirror, and the radius of curvature of the mirror. These three elements are interrelated. When the distance and size of the mirror are the same, a smaller radius of curvature results in a larger reflected field of view. Similarly, when the radius of curvature is the same, a larger mirror size provides a wider reflected field of view. Reflectivity Index of Rearview Mirrors: Rearview mirrors also have a reflectivity index. The higher the reflectivity, the clearer the image reflected by the mirror. The reflectivity depends on the reflective coating material on the inner surface of the mirror.
The most common symbol for the rearview mirror defroster switch is a small rectangular box with three wavy lines inside, resembling rising heat. It's typically located in the driver's side door control panel, near the window adjustment buttons. Having driven for over a decade, I frequently use this feature during winter, especially on frosty or rainy days when mirrors get foggy - pressing it quickly removes ice and fog for safer driving. I remember when I first bought my car, a friend taught me to recognize this symbol, explaining it's not just for mirror heating but also prevents condensation. Just a tip: avoid pressing it unnecessarily in dry, hot weather to save battery. Designs may vary slightly between car models - Japanese cars sometimes have more curved wavy lines. Always check your manual to confirm its location, because safe driving comes first.
