What is the Rearview Mirror Heating Symbol?

[LeJoanna]

The rearview mirror heating symbol is a pattern consisting of three upward-curving arrows paired with a rectangle. The location of the rearview mirror heating switch varies across different car models, but the symbol is generally similar. Rearview mirror heating is particularly useful during rainy or snowy weather. When activated, the heater behind the mirror quickly warms the surface, gradually removing rainwater or fog from the mirror, eliminating the need for drivers to manually wipe the mirror frequently and thereby reducing driving hazards. How to use the rearview mirror heating function: There are typically 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 required, as the driver's side has a dedicated adjustment button. Principle of the rearview mirror heating function: After pressing the button, the electric heater behind the rearview mirror glass rapidly heats up to a fixed temperature within a few minutes, usually between 35-60 degrees Celsius. The heat is then emitted from both left and right rearview mirrors. Meanwhile, due to the rising temperature and evaporation, water droplets on the mirror surface gradually shrink, and fog slowly dissipates, effectively defogging and deicing the mirror. However, if the rain 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 embedding electric heating wires in the mirror. These wires consume a significant amount of power. Therefore, when using this function, ensure the car is in an ignited state. Avoid activating rearview mirror heating while the car is stationary to prevent draining the battery and potentially causing starting issues. Other methods for defogging rearview mirrors include: Window ventilation: Open both side windows slightly to create airflow between the interior and exterior, reducing the temperature difference and allowing fog to dissipate gradually. Adjust the car's air conditioning to the appropriate setting to blow warm air for defogging.

[SanCora]

The icon for the rearview mirror heating is very recognizable—it's usually a square frame with three upward-curving wavy lines inside, resembling the outline of a rearview mirror. This feature is especially useful on rainy days or in winter. When the mirror fogs up or frosts over, pressing this button activates the heating element, and within seconds, the view becomes clear again. I always turn it on during long drives in rainy or foggy weather, as it helps melt water droplets and prevents ice buildup. Note that the heating button is often linked with the rear window defroster—activating the rear defogger usually turns on the mirror heating automatically. However, some cars require manual activation, with the button located in the climate control panel or near the driver’s door armrest. Just look for that small square symbol with wavy lines, and you’ll find it.

[MacBrady]

The rearview mirror heating symbol is actually a visual representation of an electrical circuit: a rectangular frame simulates the mirror surface, while three wavy lines represent thermal energy. When this button is activated, the heating element embedded behind the mirror will operate, quickly defogging and defrosting through the thermal effect of electric current. Some European models integrate the heating function with the rear window defroster under the same fan-shaped symbol, activating both functions simultaneously when pressed. Modern vehicles also incorporate temperature sensors that automatically turn off the heating function when the mirror surface reaches approximately 15°C, ensuring both safety and energy efficiency. Practical tests show that in cold weather, the mirror surface temperature can rise to a maximum of 50°C after activation, so it's important to avoid touching the metal edges of the mirror immediately after use.

[ORobert]

Look for the button with a square and three curved arrows on the dashboard—that's the rearview mirror heater. This feature has been a lifesaver during the recent temperature drop: last week after rain, my mirrors fogged up like frosted glass, but pressing the button cleared all condensation in under 30 seconds. The mechanism involves heating wires embedded behind the mirror glass. Some vehicles activate this automatically—for instance, my Lexus heats both the mirror and its integrated camera to prevent false alerts. Don't confuse it with the defogger button, which has a fan-shaped wave symbol (the mirror heater uses a square). Prolonged use requires periodic mirror checks, as excessive heating may damage the glass coating.

[VonRachel]

One essential winter driving skill is utilizing the rearview mirror heating function. Its icon is straightforward: a flat rectangle containing 2-3 curved upward dashed lines, resembling steam rising from a mirror. For instance, this morning when I drove my child to school and encountered frost, pressing the mirror heating button cleared the side mirrors while the windshield was still foggy. The activation location varies by model - base trims may integrate it near door handles, while premium versions place it in the climate control menu on the central display. This feature not only removes water droplets but also prevents thin ice formation on mirrors in subzero temperatures. Remember not to keep it on continuously - the manual specifies a 15-minute maximum operation time before automatic shutoff for protection.