What is the icon for the rearview mirror heating button?
2 Answers
The rearview mirror heating symbol is a pattern of three curved upward arrows combined with a rectangle. The location of the rearview mirror heating switch varies among different car models, but the symbol is generally similar. Rearview mirror heating is particularly useful in rainy or snowy weather. When activated, the heater behind the mirror quickly warms the mirror surface, gradually removing rainwater or fog, eliminating the need for the driver to manually wipe the mirror frequently and reducing driving hazards. How to use the rearview mirror heating function: There are generally two ways to activate the rearview mirror heating function. One is combined with the electric rearview mirror adjustment button—simply rotate the knob to turn it on. The other is located on the air conditioning control panel—press the heating button to activate it. No manual angle adjustment is needed, as the driver's side has a dedicated adjustment button. Principle of the rearview mirror heating function: After rotating the button, the electric heater behind the rearview mirror glass rapidly heats up to a fixed temperature within a few minutes, typically between 35-60 degrees Celsius. The heat is then distributed across the left and right rearview mirrors. As the temperature rises and evaporation occurs, water droplets on the mirror surface gradually shrink, and fog slowly dissipates, effectively defrosting and de-fogging the mirror. However, if the rainfall is particularly heavy, the effect may diminish and become less noticeable. Precautions for using the rearview mirror heating function: The principle of rearview mirror heating involves adding electric heating wires to the mirror. These wires consume a significant amount of power, so it is essential to ensure the car is running when using this function. Avoid activating rearview mirror heating while the car is stationary to prevent draining the battery, which could leave insufficient power to start the car. Other methods for defogging rearview mirrors include: Opening windows for air circulation: Crack open the side windows slightly to allow air exchange between the inside and outside of the car, reducing the temperature difference and gradually eliminating fog. Adjusting the car's air conditioning to the appropriate setting to blow warm air for defogging.
I remember that while driving, the icon for the rearview mirror heating button is usually a small symbol shaped like a rectangle or a rearview mirror, with a few curved wavy lines on it, resembling heat waves. This icon is typically located near the air conditioning panel on the center console, and sometimes on the door handle of the driver's seat. When I first started using the car, I mistook another button for it, but later discovered that it’s especially useful on rainy days—once pressed, the condensation on the rearview mirror dissipates, and the view becomes clear instantly. Different car models have slight variations in the icon design—some are more minimalist with just wavy lines, while others resemble a mirror; but the basic logic is the same, representing that the heating function is in operation. If you’re unsure, you can first check the manual or look up images of your car model for comparison. On cold and humid days, I often turn on this function because it prevents the rearview mirror from fogging up, avoiding obscured side views when changing lanes, thereby enhancing safety. However, be mindful not to leave it on continuously to avoid wasting electricity—remember to turn it off when temperatures rise. After practicing a few times in the car, you’ll easily recognize it.
