Which Button is for Rearview Mirror Heating?
3 Answers
The rearview mirror heating button icon is shaped like three upward-curving arrows inside a square frame. The rearview mirror heating function refers to the ability of the rearview mirror to be heated by electric heating wires embedded behind the mirror when driving in rainy, snowy, or foggy weather, ensuring a clear mirror surface. Rearview mirror heating is particularly useful in rainy or snowy conditions. When activated, the heater behind the mirror quickly warms the surface, gradually removing rainwater or fog, eliminating the need for drivers to manually wipe the mirror frequently, thereby 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—pressing the heating button activates it. No manual angle adjustment is needed, as there is an adjustment button on the driver's side. 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. The heat is then distributed across the left and right rearview mirrors. Meanwhile, as the temperature rises and evaporates, water droplets on the mirror surface become smaller, and fog gradually disappears, effectively heating the mirror and removing frost. 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 adding electric heating wires to the mirror. These wires consume a significant amount of power. When using this function, ensure the car is in an active state. Avoid activating rearview mirror heating while the car is stationary to prevent draining the battery and making it unable to start the vehicle. Other methods for defogging rearview mirrors include: Opening windows for airflow: Crack open the side windows slightly to allow air convection between the inside and outside of the car, reducing the temperature difference and gradually dissipating fog. Adjusting the car's air conditioning to the appropriate setting can use warm air blown from the AC to defog the mirrors.
I remember driving in Northeast China years ago, dealing with icy and foggy rearview mirrors in winter was particularly troublesome. Gradually, I learned the location of the rearview mirror heating button. It's usually hidden on the inner side of the door handle or near the air conditioning control panel, marked with a small mirror icon with wavy lines or a heat symbol. The first time I drove a Ford, I mistakenly pressed the defrost button instead. This feature only works when the engine is running. After starting the engine, a simple press turns on a small indicator light, and within minutes, the mirror clears up. It's especially reassuring to use during rainy or foggy conditions, significantly improving driving visibility. I recommend familiarizing yourself with your car's layout in your free time and making it a habit to press the button after starting the engine, so you're not scrambling in emergencies. Some cars integrate this function with the rear window heater, but the icons are generally consistent and easy to recognize.
When I first got my driver's license, I was also confused about the rearview mirror heating button. It's actually super easy to find - located either near the door or on the center console while driving. The button shows a mirror with wavy lines or a heat-like symbol. Just press it after starting the car; usually a small red light will flash indicating it's activated, and the mirror will clear up in minutes. It's especially useful during rainy days, instantly improving visibility. If unsure about its location, check your car manual - it definitely has diagrams. I've encountered models where button positions vary significantly, like sedans having it on the door side while SUVs place it in the AC control area. You'll memorize it after a few tries. Developing this habit has made driving much safer, especially during humid seasons when I use it daily.
