Why is the Audi Q5's rearview mirror heating not working?
3 Answers
The Audi rearview mirror heating system is designed to operate only when the ambient temperature is below 15 degrees Celsius. Therefore, if the rearview mirror heating is not working, the first consideration should be whether the outdoor temperature is too high. If the temperature is not the issue and the rearview mirror heating still doesn't work, it's advisable to have it inspected promptly. Below are some key points about rearview mirror heating: 1. Suitable Environment: Rearview mirror heating is particularly useful during rainy or snowy weather. When activated, the heater behind the mirror quickly warms the mirror surface, gradually removing rain or fog, eliminating the need for frequent manual wiping and reducing driving hazards. 2. Precautions: Before using the rearview mirror heating, ensure the vehicle is in the ignition-on state or the key is turned to the ON position to power the system. Avoid using this function when the car battery is low on charge or malfunctioning. When turning on the rearview mirror heating switch, be careful not to confuse it with the front windshield defroster.
Every time I encounter my Audi Q5's mirror heating not responding, I first check it myself because it might be caused by some simple issues. The most common one is a blown fuse. You can check the corresponding position in the engine compartment's fuse box—Audi models' fuses are prone to overheating and melting. Additionally, the button or switch might have poor contact. Try pressing the mirror heating and rear window defogger buttons repeatedly a few times; sometimes dust buildup causes them to jam. If it still doesn’t work, the heating wire inside might be broken or the circuit might be shorted. Audi’s wiring tends to age over time, and worn insulation can cause this. I keep a multimeter in my car—simply testing the voltage can help diagnose the issue. If you’re handy, you can try fixing it yourself, but if not, take it to the dealership. Cleaning the mirrors during regular maintenance can prevent some problems. Without heating in winter rain, the hassle increases accident risks—it’s really something to take seriously. Spend some time getting it fixed properly.
I've repaired quite a few cars in my lifetime, and the Audi Q5's mirror heating failure is quite common. Generally, start by checking the fuse first. The fuse box is located next to the glove compartment by the driver's seat. Refer to the manual to locate it, and if it's blown, try replacing it with a new one. Then, check the button switch. Audi designed it to work in conjunction with the rear window defroster. If pressing it doesn't do anything, the internal contacts might be oxidized or the relay might be faulty—that little box controls the current. Additionally, the heating element in the mirror is prone to cracking, especially due to thermal expansion and contraction during car washes, leading to failure over time. Audi parts made by domestic OEMs might not be very durable. I recommend avoiding hard braking to reduce vibrations and extend its lifespan. I've seen owners try to fix it by rewiring themselves, only to cause a short circuit. It's better to spend a couple hundred at a proper shop to get it fixed. Safety first—poor visibility in winter without heating is dangerous, so it's best to address the issue early.
